What Do Mountain Bike Tire Sizes Mean

Mountain bike tire sizes are a measure of the width and height of the tire.

The width is measured in millimeters, while the height is measured in inches. The two measurements are added together to get the total size of the tire. For example, a mountain bike tire size of 2.25-inch by 1.95-inch would be written as 26 x 2.10 (or 26 x 2).

The wider the tires, the more ground contact it has with the ground and can absorb more bumps in terrain than narrower tires. The higher or lower profile of a tire will affect its rolling resistance, which is how much energy it takes to roll over a given surface, and traction on different terrains and surfaces like sand or rocks.

What better 27.5 or 29?

Simply put, a 29er offers more speed, efficiency and stability, while a 27.5-inch bike offers a snappier trail feel. So unless you are particularly tall or small then the choice of wheel size very much depends on the trail you ride and your personal preference for the ride feel.^[1]

Which tire size is better for mountain bike?

Tire Width Generally speaking, wider tires should provide more traction and control on the trail. Narrower tires may roll a little faster on smooth trails. For XC racing, most riders will use 1.6-2.2 inch tires, while trail, enduro, and downhill riders opt for 2.3 inches wide and above!^[2]

Why is 27.5 better than 26?

Larger wheels hold more speed than smaller wheels due to rotational inertia, making the 27.5″ a faster ride than a conventional 26″ wheel. Once you get moving, it’s easier to stay moving.^[3]

What does 27.5 mean on a bike?

If you haven’t caught on by now, 27.5 is the diameter of the wheel in inches which makes it obviously smaller than a 29er wheel. The change in wheel size makes a noticeable difference in how the bike rides, handles, and more. The 27.5 wheel is notorious for being a great compromise between agility and speed.^[4]

Who should ride a 29er?

29ers are often better suited to taller riders. This can make it difficult for shorter riders (especially those shorter than 5 ft. 6 in.) to find a 29er that fits well. Test ride both wheel sizes if you can. Taller riders, especially those over 6 ft.^[5]

How tall should you be to ride a 29er?

If you’re 5’6′ or taller, you should be able to find a 29er model to fit you. Riders more than 6′ tall can rejoice: You’ll definitely enjoy a more natural riding position with the size and frame geometry of a 29er.^[6]

What height is a 26 inch bike for?

A 26-inch bike works well for people who are 4’10-5’7, or 147 cm to 170 cm. Also, it works well for people whose leg inseam is 25-30 inches, or 63-76 cm. However, the frame size may need adjustment depending on your height.^[7]

What height is a 27.5 inch bike for?

A 27.5-inch bike is good for what height? A mountain bike with 27.5” wheels is typically the right size for riders between 5’5” and 6’0”. The 27.5” tire and wheel size has become the new standard across quality mountain bikes because of its increased traction and speed over the older 26” wheels.^[8]

Are 29 inch wheels faster than 26?

In the end, the 29ers came in 7.5 seconds ahead of the 26ers—a 2.4-percent speed increase—without making the riders work harder, as there were no differences in power output, cadence, time spent coasting, work, or heart rate.^[9]

Which is better 26er or 29er?

While 26ers definitely accel when it comes to acceleration, 29ers are undoubtedly better at maintaining speed. In fact, a 29er can feel considerably faster once you’re up to speed. This is due to a few reasons, almost all stemming from the fact that 29ers have additional rotating mass.^[10]

Is a 27.5 inch bike for adults?

What height is a 27.5 inch bike for? 27.5 inch bikes are suitable for adults between 5’2” and 5’10”. That said, adults of all heights can ride this wheel size. Some brands claim that 27.5” wheels are especially useful for riders 5’7” and under.^[11]

Can I change my 27.5 to 29er?

Yes, you can do it. The diameter of a 29″ wheel & tire is slightly larger than a 27.5+ wheel & tire. The 29″ setup will raise your bottom bracket height.^[12]