My only issue with 26” tires is that they have fallen far enough out of favor that tire and rim selection have become more limited than 29 or 27.5 offerings. The rolling resistance argument always seemed overblown given the small actual difference in diameters. Years ago I rode down Baja (1995) and across Australia (2002) on a 26” wheel mountain bike, and it was really the only option if you wanted a reasonable sized tire for that kind of trip.
The other factor is what may be available for replacement in a remote part of the world. I suspect my 27.5 / 650b would be a disadvantage in this respect.
I agree, but they’re still around. I think the bike industry as a whole is done a disservice by creating too many options. And the cost of bikes are ridiculous. Sometimes simpler is better.
Agree. I do like having options, but a consequence of options is too much forced obsolescence. Sometimes I feel like a quick release and English bottom bracket kind of guy trapped in a world dominated by 387 different thru axle and press fit bottom bracket standards.
Hi Bill, interesting to read your stuff, I was a keen longride cyclist in my teens (UK) and my early 30's (EU). A bad crash in the Alps left me unable to ride again. In my mid 70's I discovered that I could manage an E-Trike, and started to push myself. The trike is old and not really suitable for my disability or aspirations. So next week I'll be going to England, collecting a new one that is appears to be capable of transporting me from my home in Nederland to the French / Spanish border. That's a little over 1500 miles. I don't know yet if I can manage it all this summer, but am up for the challenge, and will be documenting it as part of my Substacking, w.e.f. 29th May. Wish me luck Bro !! Maurice
My only issue with 26” tires is that they have fallen far enough out of favor that tire and rim selection have become more limited than 29 or 27.5 offerings. The rolling resistance argument always seemed overblown given the small actual difference in diameters. Years ago I rode down Baja (1995) and across Australia (2002) on a 26” wheel mountain bike, and it was really the only option if you wanted a reasonable sized tire for that kind of trip.
The other factor is what may be available for replacement in a remote part of the world. I suspect my 27.5 / 650b would be a disadvantage in this respect.
I agree, but they’re still around. I think the bike industry as a whole is done a disservice by creating too many options. And the cost of bikes are ridiculous. Sometimes simpler is better.
Agree. I do like having options, but a consequence of options is too much forced obsolescence. Sometimes I feel like a quick release and English bottom bracket kind of guy trapped in a world dominated by 387 different thru axle and press fit bottom bracket standards.
Hi Bill, interesting to read your stuff, I was a keen longride cyclist in my teens (UK) and my early 30's (EU). A bad crash in the Alps left me unable to ride again. In my mid 70's I discovered that I could manage an E-Trike, and started to push myself. The trike is old and not really suitable for my disability or aspirations. So next week I'll be going to England, collecting a new one that is appears to be capable of transporting me from my home in Nederland to the French / Spanish border. That's a little over 1500 miles. I don't know yet if I can manage it all this summer, but am up for the challenge, and will be documenting it as part of my Substacking, w.e.f. 29th May. Wish me luck Bro !! Maurice
That sounds great! I’m excited for you. Thanks for sharing and keep me updated on your travels. Peace, my friend.