Bicycles with 29-inch wheels: features, pros and cons

Bicycle fans are constantly discussing frame form factors, brakes and handlebars, even design. But there is an equally important parameter - the size of the wheels. Bikes with 29-inch wheels have recently appeared, and you need to weigh the pros and cons of such a purchase.

Mountain bikes of the latest generation quite often have a wheel diameter of 29 inches. Such bikes were immediately recognized and gained a certain circle of fans. Already at the first arrivals, it was established that obstacles are passed much easier and softer on such large wheels. Acceleration will last longer. The energy transferred to the bike per pedal cycle will be significantly higher than on models with smaller wheels.

Cyclists will undoubtedly quickly appreciate increased grip. It is created thanks to an atypical tire design and increases stability on any road. Riders note that on a bicycle with large wheels, turns and various uneven terrain are less noticeable.

However, they have not only advantages, but also obvious disadvantages.

It is worth noting that these bicycles are very heavy. Even the frame and wheels alone weigh more than mountain bikes with smaller propellers. This is understandable: after all, 29 inches is in any case more than 26 or even 27. In addition, the frame must be larger, otherwise it will simply break into 2 parts already at the first exit on the road. Getting started on a large bike is more difficult because inertia not only helps maintain acceleration, but also makes starting difficult.

And even when moving, you will have to make much more effort.The increased mass and increased inertia translate into a loss of maneuverability. Niners can hardly be called agile bicycles.

Only experience will allow you to immediately determine which turn you need to fit into, and how to do it.

Continuing the analysis of the pros and cons of the niner, you should pay attention that riding on it threatens to get injured much more than riding on lower models. Falling from a high saddle is more painful anyway. It should be borne in mind that these are practically exclusive models. The selection of spare parts necessary for repair is very difficult, and they are not available everywhere.

And even for adult cyclists less than 1.6 m tall, it is completely uncomfortable to use it. Problems can also be caused by a slender physique or underweight. However, these disadvantages are a direct continuation of the advantages of a large-wheeled bike. But even with optimal body proportions for him, it will be almost impossible to perform tricks. The same lack of maneuverability and increased inertia hinders.

The question arises - which bicycle wheels are better, 29 or still 26 inches. There is no definite answer to this question. It all depends on the purpose of use and personal needs. Niners are equipped with higher frames, and their center of gravity also shifts upward. However, the difference is expressed in 1-2 centimeters and is almost not felt during the ride.

There are actually few clear advantages to the 26-inch wheel. The frame on the bike will look neater, sleeker. The design is more maneuverable, and the bike itself can be easily transported in the trunk of a car. The final choice will have to be made by the cyclists themselves.

A bicycle with wheels with a circumference of 29 inches (in mm it will be 73.66) suitable for tourists with a height of 1.8 m and above. The increased weight of the structure can be compensated for by models with a specially designed small frame. The problem is that finding such a 29er is even more difficult than a full-size sample. Additional difficulties will arise in the selection of spare parts.

Now is the time to explore the basic features of choosing a bike. It is necessary to select it for tourist use taking into account:

• features of a particular driver;
• the nuances of the planned route;
• budget constraints;
• personal impressions of a particular bike.

If the lightness of the bike is in the first place, you should pay attention on model with aluminum frame (21, 22, 23) inches long. When choosing a 29er, steering wheel and seat adjustments are even more important than for models with smaller wheels. This is the only way to adapt the bike to individual needs.

The number of speeds is selected individually. Only experienced cyclists can figure out whether 18 or 24 speeds are needed. Beginners should be advised to limit themselves to a lower number of speeds. All the same, in the absence of proper riding experience, you will not be able to use them correctly.

TOP mountain bikes with 29-inch wheels include Merida Big Nine 70. Its characteristics are as follows:

• weight - 14.5 kg;
• straight steering wheel;
• 29 speeds (great for experienced riders)
• hydraulic disc brakes;
• optimal suitability for cross-country and other types of extreme travel.

It is worth taking a closer look at Bulls Bushtail 29. This bike is advertised as suitable for professionals and cyclists alike. It is slightly heavier than the previous model (weighs 14.9 kg). Load up to 130 kg is guaranteed. The designers took care of optimizing their product for riding on various roads, including in the city.

The bicycle also has a universal purpose. Format 1213. The weight of this device is only 13 kg. By default, it is equipped with a 27-speed transmission and disc brakes. Users note the almost complete absence of vibrations. Off-road the bike performs well. Alternatively, you can consider JAMIS Dakota D29. The frame of this bike is made of solid aluminum alloy. The weight of the structure reaches 13.5 kg. There are 20 different speeds available.

The characteristics of the niner bike and tips for choosing it can be found in the following video.