Best Downhill Mountain Bike Wheels

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 27.5 or 29 better for downhill?

The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem. The truth is, it depends on a number of factors, including the type of terrain you're riding, your personal riding style, and your bike's suspension setup. That said, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each wheel size to help you make an informed decision.

27.5-inch wheels (aka "650b") offer a happy medium between the nimble 26-inch wheels and the burly 29-inch hoops. They're often lighter than their 29er counterparts and provide quicker handling thanks to their shorter wheelbase. 27.5-inch wheels also roll over obstacles more easily than 26ers thanks to their increased diameter, making them ideal for aggressive trail riding and enduro racing.

On the downside, 27.5-inch wheels can feel skittish on high-speed descents due to their smaller contact patch with the ground. 29-inch wheels roll faster than smaller wheel sizes thanks to their increased circumference, making them ideal for long cross-country rides and marathon races where speed is key. Additionally, 29ers boast improved traction and stability due to their larger contact patch with the ground – an advantage that comes in handy when carving through turns at high speeds or plowing through rock gardens on technical trails.

However, all that extra real estate comes at a price; 29er bikes are typically heavier than their 27.5-inch counterparts and can be more difficult to maneuver in tight switchbacks or trees.

What wheel size is best for downhill?

There is a lot of debate in the mountain biking community about what wheel size is best for downhill. Some people swear by 26" wheels, while others prefer 27.5" or even 29" wheels. So, what's the verdict?

Well, it really depends on your personal preferences and riding style. If you're a big guy who likes to charge down the trails, then a 29er might be the best option for you. If you're a bit lighter and nimble on your bike, then a 26" or 27.5" wheel might suit you better.

Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which wheel size feels best for you when riding downhill. If you're just getting into mountain biking, or if you're unsure about which wheel size to choose, then we recommend trying out different bikes with different wheel sizes and seeing how they feel for you. Many bike shops will let you test ride bikes before purchasing them, so take advantage of that opportunity and find the perfect bike for your needs!

What wheels are used in Tour de France?

The Tour de France is a road cycling race that takes place annually in France. The race is divided into 21 stages, and the winner is the rider who completes all 21 stages with the lowest overall time. The wheels that are used in Tour de France are 700c wheels.

These wheels are made of aluminum and have a diameter of 700 millimeters. The width of the rim on these wheels is 23 millimeters. The spokes on these wheels are usually 14 or 15 gauge, which means they are thicker than average spokes.

The reason why thicker spokes are used on Tour de France wheels is because they can handle more weight and stress than thinner spokes. This is important because riders in the Tour de France often have to carry their own food and water for long periods of time, and they also have to deal with rough terrain. Another feature of Tour de France wheels is that they usually have quick release skewers.

This allows riders to quickly remove their wheel from their bike frame in case of a flat tire or other emergency. If you're interested in getting a set ofTour de France-style wheels for your own bike, there are many companies that sell them online and in stores. Just make sure to get the right size for your bike frame!

What size wheels do enduro racers use?

Enduro racing is a type of mountain bike racing where the rider must complete multiple stages, each stage consisting of a timed descent with a mandatory un-timed climb back to the start/finish line. The winner is determined by their cumulative time over all stages. The most common wheel size for enduro racers is 27.5", also known as 650b. This offers a good balance of stability and maneuverability, making it ideal for the technical descents often found in enduro races. Some riders may opt for 29" wheels for even more stability, while others may go down to 26" wheels for more nimble handling.

Ultimately it comes down to rider preference and what works best for them on the given course.