[kjg48359]

Real quick, with the bigger wheel, isn't the gearing matched so that the gears are essentially "smaller" to give the same feel as if you used the same gear on a 26" rim? In other words, (and I don't remember my ratios anymore) if gear x = 50" to a crank revolution, are the gears on the 29 matched to achieve the same result? (so the only difference in "speed" is the rotational energy of the bigger rim due to it's radius, not the effort to get it there). [duh, am I clear enough?]

[RebeccaT]

Originally Posted by kjg48359

Real quick, with the bigger wheel, isn't the gearing matched so that the gears are essentially "smaller" to give the same feel as if you used the same gear on a 26" rim? In other words, (and I don't remember my ratios anymore) if gear x = 50" to a crank revolution, are the gears on the 29 matched to achieve the same result? (so the only difference in "speed" is the rotational energy of the bigger rim due to it's radius, not the effort to get it there). [duh, am I clear enough?]

I can't speak to gear ratios but when I went for a few rides on the 29er demo hardtail, the uphills actually felt easier. I didn't find it any slower in building up momentum with the bigger wheels (and I'm 5' 3" riding a 15.5" Fisher 29er). Ultimately setting up a gear ratio that works for you is really key. Most people I ride with have different gear ratio preferences based on what, how and where they ride plus their level of fitness (e.g. elite racer vs recreationalist). Fisher has a good video overview at 29er Hardtails Bike Series | Gary Fisher Bicycles

[Industry_Hack]

I'd really like to see a 5'3" woman on a 29er, and I mean no disrespect by that.

[RebeccaT]

Originally Posted by Industry_Hack

I'd really like to see a 5'3" woman on a 29er, and I mean no disrespect by that.

Ha, ha. None taken. I will concede though that the big wheels make the bike frame look even smaller.

[Industry_Hack]

Even a pic of the bike would be interesting.

[RebeccaT]

I'll post a pic once the final tweaks are made.

[Industry_Hack]

Sweet.

[RebeccaT]

OK, no photo yet but finally got the bike out on the trail last weekend and loved it! Will be converting to tubeless and maybe going with some lighter tires but otherwise keeping it mostly stock since it's available for customers to demo. First spin was on some pretty easy singletrack to get a feel for the bike and figure out what tweaks need to be made but it climbed really well and of course smoothed out the roots nicely. Hope to ride it again this weekend since we have record breaking temps up here in Vancouver. Feels like we should be hosting the summer Olympics!

[vassago]

i have 5'4 customer (male) that rides a 29er and loves it, he's on the specialized 15" frame. he's getting something custom built though

[AlterCow]

I have a 29er hardtail and I have to echo the sentiments here:

1- not as maneuverable on twisty trails or downhill
2- more of a cross country bike

I love riding the thing, but for the forementioned reasons I am looking to get a full suspension 26er for the downhills. It is great for going distances and I have little trouble working a 29er for my 5'10" build on a 15" frame, but if I want to be more agressive I need to update my quiver of bikes and include a smaller wheel set.