What are the pros and cons of a 29er mountain bike?
frkcokyle asked:
I'm going to buy a new mountain bike and would like to know the pros and cons of the 29er mountain bikes. I have never ridden one and would like some insite.
I'm going to buy a new mountain bike and would like to know the pros and cons of the 29er mountain bikes. I have never ridden one and would like some insite.
Tags: 29er Mountain Bike, 29er Mountain Bikes, Pros Cons
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March 11th, 2007 at 3:16 am
To be honest, I’ve not ridden a two-niner. However, I’m in the market for a new bike and did some research on two-niners.
I asked a question on Y/A, here is a link to it:
The answerer seemed to know what he was talking about. However, to give you a quick pro/con list, this is what I think I know:
Two Niners:
Pros:
Larger wheels, more momentum
Larger wheels, more surface area (better traction)
Larger wheels roll over things better (smoother ride)
Looks cool (depends on your taste)
Apparently faster
Cons:
Larger wheels, more momentum (harder to slow down)
Larger wheels = more weight
Larger wheels = more surface area = harder to pedal
Might be too big for you and uncomfortable or not efficient.
Looks ugly (depends on your taste)
Have fun!
March 12th, 2007 at 3:52 am
Check out the Mountain Bike Action Magazine website. a few issues back (sorry, can’t remember which issue), they did a pretty good job of reviewing 29 inch bikes. One thing you should consider is the weight and the different feel of a larger bike. You should be able to find a local bike shop that may allow you to test ride these for a day or so. If needed, rent one for a weekend and then make your decision. better to drop a few bucks on renting one than dropping large dollars on something you may not like. I’m considering one as well but will try to rent one for a weekend first and then make my decision. Other opinions are alright, but usually based on personal preferences. Good Luck!!
March 15th, 2007 at 12:47 am
In theory the bigger wheels make acceleration more difficult, but I haven’t felt any difference on mine. Low speed wobble isn’t as much of a problem as people make it out to be either. I do notice much smoother rolling and transitions between hills and flats. The only time I really notice the big wheels is on very tight twisty single track. The front wheel sticks out pretty far and will pull hard on the bars if it hits something. There are some poorly designed 29ers out there so you need to be a bit careful, particularly with the sizing. Toe overlap isn’t uncommon, and I’ve heard that on some the back tire can hit the front derailleur.