I’ve been riding a 29 hardtail for a year now and am definitely going back to 27.5. 29er’s roll over stuff (like a tractor) but don’t corner, or jump, or feel very good. I want my bike to be playful and fun to ride. I will gladly give up a couple seconds of speed to have a bike that’s fun and doesn’t ride like a tractor lol!
@@gmatos123 27.5+ is amazing. You have to nail the tire pressure spot on to unlock it's magic, which is tricky to do. But its the best of both worlds for a hardtail for me
29’s are like riding a monster truck. It has its good moments cruising over stuff….. but when jumping or flicking it about, I feel like a small child who’s riding their dads bike.
That is the perfect explanation bro. 29er feels like monster truck big to me. This is not my favorite but, I could see its advantage on some super chunky trails.
I'm running a Vitus Sentier Vrx on 27.5 and absolutely love it. Something about 29s always feels a bit too big for me. I did, however, grow up riding 26s, so that might be the reason why I'm more confident with smaller wheels.
I've got the Sentier VR 27.5" Feels very playful even for a mediocre rider like me 😁 Tried 29. Rolled fantastically over obstacles but who wants the trail to be smooth 🤔
I've got a 27.5 hardtail too. Just debating if to just upgrade the frame or go in the completely opposite direction and get a 29 full sus 🤔 (the knees aren't getting any younger 👴). But I do like the rawness of just having sus forks 😊 I almost feel hardcore 🤘🤣
@@mateimarconithey have great PROFESSIONAL chemistry! No need to infer anything else, they’re great and entertaining on screen together and that’s the important part.
Unless I am racing (which I don’t anymore) I think the time comparison could actually mislead me to buy one for the wrong reason (does a second really matter in most cases?). I would compare both without time and just feel which size feels more fun and natural, and challenges me to maximize my skills as much as possible, and then choose accordingly. With that said I have both 😂 Great video!
I come from a BMX back ground and in the Bike Park I ran my 2010 giant Reign SX all the way till '22. I rode one 27.5 for a whole day and really didn't notice the difference so that why I stayed with the 26er for so long. I now have a 27.5 Reign more because of the slacker geo. Than being said since 2020 I have been riding a 29er HT for local trails and its fun but despite it being lighter at 27lbs , with the big wheels I just cant throw it around like my heavier smaller wheeled bike. Blake and Anna were racing for times. If you're just out having fun ,not racing for the absolute best time, a couple seconds doesn't matter. Everyone was having fun on 26's but the market was saturated with them. New standards sell more bikes.
I have recently upgraded massively to a good hard tail. It also meant going up to 29" wheels. I was sceptical at first, but it is so fast, and so smooth I wish I had done it years before.
The outside diameter of the 27.5 x 2.6 on my hardtail is almost exactly the o.d. of the 700 x 45 on my gravel bike. I really like that similarity as I’m so frequently jumping between the two bikes, which also have matching chainstay lengths and seattube angles. I didn’t plan it that way, it was just chance, but my body notices, on techy climbs and tight turns especially.
Just about to build a Nukeproof Scout 275 and I'm glad this video popped up as I was having a bit of doubt about my size choice but my mind is at ease now.
Great video, but I've got to say: Who really cares which is quicker? A trail/enduro hardtail's never going to be a race bike anyway. Which is more fun would be more relevant IMO, but I guess that's too subjective. For me and my trails: One full sus 29er trail bike (140/130 travel) and one moderately rowdy 27.5" hardtail (120mm travel and 66° HTA). The former for ripping through the woods at speed and the latter for flicking about on tight single track, pump tracks and (trying to) jump. Wouldn't want to part with any of them, and certainly wouldn't want my hardtail to be a 29er. I've got my trail bike for plowing over roots and tech. If you could only have one, I guess 29er hardtail kind of makes sense though.
I have a Kona Fire Mountain 27.5", And a Surly Krampus 29" I love my Kona's agility and attitude toward big features, And I love my Krampus' speed and it's ability to monster truck over roots and rocks.
I had a Hardtail in 27,5 and now I have one in 29 and I have to say, I like it. The 29 is rolling over everything really easily. But it's harder to do anything else on it.
@@chazzthaspazz4475 Well I am not jumping much, but it works fine. Bunny hopping in flat is a bit harder, cuz u have a lot more bike under you or let's say, you are more in the center of the bike and have less space to let it work under you and it's heavier too, but it works. It's also not that agile any more and a bit harder to corner. But all in all I do not regret it, cuz it fits my riding style well. As I said, it rolls over everything and is very stable. I am riding the Canyon Stoic and it's a great Hardtail. Before I had the Scott Voltage Freerider in 26 and a Trail Hardtail in 27,5. For a Trail Hardtail 29 wheels do make sense, if you are not going for Dirtjumping (sure, it can handle that too), because the roll over everything wheels do help a lot in technical terrain. I remember some steep rooty sections on my home trail, that used to send me over the handlebars, but are now really easy game. If I would go for a Fully, I would prefer 27,5, so the suspension can do its job and I would have back the agility. If you consider buying a bike and you are not sure, you need to find a way to test drive it. It's just my personal opinion.
Have just got a 29" trail hardtail, having ridden a 26" full sus for last 10 years. LOVING the hardtail - just flows and goes. 29" wheels roll over stuff so well. Getting some quicker times on my local trails than on the old full sus (although suspect 29" full sus quicker still, but maybe less fun?)
Keep telling yourself that... Diminishing hub, rim, and tyre choice for starters. Frame geometry for another... I still own and ride plenty of 26" bikes, but I don't treat them like a modern bike.
@@Metal-Possum As 26" is still being produced as a kids/teen size MTB (see the nukeproof cub scout) all those parts will still be manufactured. Non boost hubs and straight steerer forks are the only components that may be an issue as time goes on and there are ways of getting around those issues.
I think that the inserts in both wheels on Blake's bike are slowing it down. I had insert on my hardtail in the rear tire and it was noticibly slower, especially uphills. So I get rid of it. And now I'm enjoying the lightness of it. But to compensate the missing insert I'm having more pressure in the rear. Just to protect the wheel.
I had a 160gr insert in the rear. I am slightly faster without it uphill, but I do miss the sidewall support when going down. But I prefer to install it on a XC race just to be calm that the rear will not get a snake bite.
My Chromag Rootdown has 27.5+ on & I have a great time with that beast. Only slightly smaller in diameter than a 29" and lots of cushioning. Don't think I will change too soon. FWIW, I am 193cm in height.
I have run my meta Ht 29, 27.5, and mullet and I prefer to run it straight 27.5 just so it's as nimble and playful as possible. For me it's all about the feel on a hardtail that's the way I like mine to ride
I am building a Nukeproof scout with 27.5 wheels. My full sus is a 29er so I wanted the 27.5 for more trail biased rides. Both are running innertubes atm.
Surprised they didn't do any jumping. I feel that's a benefit for 27.5, the playfulness of the smaller wheels. I feel like it whips better and makes smaller side hits more enjoyable too. I started with a 27.5" Marin Hard Tail and it's been great. But I come from BMX and really wanted the smaller wheel size. I'm used to it being more nimble and easy to throw around. Which just feels more comfortable to me. But I think a mullet setup would be great. It seems that especially on a hardtail, people swear by it. May have to give that a try sometime. I don't think there is a wrong answer. Everyone should try both and make a decision based on what they want to do with their bike.
I have a 2014 Transition Carbon Covert 26er Full Susp for air flights a Duthie Hill, 2020 Polygon Syskiu T7 27.5 for nimble trail riding everywhere and a Aliexpress BXT Carbon MTB 29er Hardtail for Strava Leader Board segments. I use them all for different purposes. Great presentation, you two work fabulous together.
interseting comment ! ive just bought a whyte 905 23 model with 2.8s and im thinking i wonder what would of happened if the 27.5 bike had 2.8 tyres on?
Have the Nukeproof Scout, immediately switched to 27.5 wheelset. Riding here in Fort Collins,CO. ,the trails are tech , (rock gardens,baby heads, big rock drops and descents, Never like 29s, had 3 in my life, too sloppy slow for fast twitch riding. Hard Tails will never Die. Keep Ripping Blake
Love GMBN for these great video's, I'm running a 27.5 MTB & a 29er XC bike. I can't decide to be honest, they are two different bikes, so, the comparison id really difficult to judge. But, I have to declare, I'm loving the 29er BMX I just purchased (SE 29er), with the dropper saddle, it just blows my mind. Keep up the great work everyone, you ROCK on the ROCKS folks
And here I am on a trek 6500? xc hardtail from 2010, 26" 19mm ID rims and I'm still having fun. Even roadies have wider rims these days...I do wanna upgrade the derailleur though, 3x9 speed doesn't have the best chain retention..or just go 1x9
i have a 2018 Scout 27.5, and on descents i find that i'm pretty much just as fast as my riding mates on 29" FS trail bikes. on flowy stuff with undulating terrain i tend to pick up speed easier because the smaller wheels and stiff back end pump the trail more efficiently.
I'm riding a Salsa Timberjack. I have a wheelset with i39 rims in 27.5" with 2.8" wide tires. I also have a wheelset with i30 rims and 29 x 2.6. On both wheelsets there's a Minion DHF up front and a Rekon on the rear. I was a die hard 27.5+ fan. For 7 years. And i still prefer it on tight, twisty single track with lots of roots and rocks. Those 2.8's with psi in the mid teens is just sooo good at gobbling up trail chatter and softening blows. Like a 90 x 110 full sus. BUT...on flow trails with rooted climbs, rock garden features, drop offs, jumps and a smoother, faster trail surface...i really like the 29 x 2.6. After riding the same more tight and twisty trails that I'd normally ride the 27.5 x 2.8 on, but with the 29 x 2.6 instead...if i HAD to choose one wheelset, it would probably be the 29 x 2.6. I used to HATE 29ers on these trails. But modern trail geometry is SOOOO much better today and the newest Timberjacks are pretty aggressive. I feel 29er geometry has finally caught up to the hype. I still prefer the 27.5 x 2.8 on those tight, root and rock infested trails, but the 29 x 2.6 was not deal breaker bad. Far from it. Different definitely, but still quite good, especially over big rocks and how it rolled thru compression dips better. I still dont mind the 27.5 Plus on flow trails. But i like 29 x 2.6 better. I'm sure my opinions would be much different if i were riding a 27.5 x 2.6 setup. The wider 2.8's are a taller tire and closer to the height of a 29".
I've had a 29 and felt too high, and I got some 27.5 wheels and swapped those on to it and it felt much better.. and then I mulleted it and felt good to. I've since sold the 29er and building a mullet from the frame up. I have mostly flow and/or rooty trails in my area so climbing and downhill isn't much of an option. But if you feel better on a bike, you will ride it more. But my work horse is a 26 😊😊.
That was a great comparison i really was intregued by this one well done guys fantastic effort and fantastic presentation cracking pair up you two for this
Never seen her before. She's so rad. These two have some great chemistry. Do some other stuff with Blake and Anna. She does a great job of representing for the women. That's one really cool thing about MTB is how many women are into it. Basically every time I go to a trail there's a couple of women and I think that's so cool. Compared to something like BMX or skating where it's so rare. It's awesome how open and welcoming MTB is for everyone. You can have men and women, kids and grandparents all riding the same trails and hyping each other up. Nobody should be intimidated by this sport.
It's just a big buzz seeing anyone out there enjoying the same hobby as yourself, just having fun and giving it their best. I'm relatively new to MTB, (but had a background in competitive bmx when I was a kid) and got a second hand Roscoe 7 to get myself into regular fitness (after a knee I jury from running) and I'm absolutely loving it, I try to stop by my local trails everyday after work on my way home weather dependant, and I am slowly getting more confident and faster, but most of all I'm having a blast... and that's all I can think of every time I'm on the trail, that all those new faces are having one too! Just ride.
You can see a lot more videos with Anna over at GMBN Tech! She's one of the main presenters there, but is going to be joining with more videos here in future.
I'm building up a custom frame and went mullet. I haven't ridden it yet, but I designed the geometry specifically for a mullet set up. I guess my thinking is "The best of both worlds". 😉
Still on a 26". I am looking for a new hardtail, I lean more towards 27,5" love the characteristics of the smaller wheels. But seems to me everything is 29" these days.. great comparison 👍
@@alf3071 certainly for us 6.5' folks, although, 29ers used to be easier to find for someone of my height, now days they're making them for average height people, making it yet again harder for us to find something that fits. To me it's like if they started selling my size shoe (17s), but they make the inside so they fit people who wear a 10, instead of actually fitting the people they're intended for lol
Never had a chance to ride a 27.5 as I'm new to MTB, but I freaking love my 29er - Radon Cragger :) My way more experienced friends advised that I take the 29er as a beginner because it rolls over things much better and is easier for climbing, so I listened. I mean it's logical that the smaller wheels will be more playful and probably easier to control, but I can't complain about the 29s eating away most of the stuff at the expense of some control, which I still don't have mostly lol So guess it's better to just roll over things as a noob than try to navigate tricky stuff that a 27.5 would have a harder time rolling over. So the 29er is more forgiving for mistakes and rougher trails.
Most of my previous mountain bike were hard tails. Everyone except my current one were 26 inch. My current one is a 29er. I have not had a 27.5 inch hardtail. To be honest. every mountain bike I have from now on will be a 29er.
Really like the show !! And very interesting comparison, always wondered what/if I would loose by switching from 29" to 27,5". I know now and I keep my 29" Ragley Big Al !! It goes everywhere so easily !!
Still love my 27.5 hardtail rides so well but also have a 29 but full suspension and love that equally wouldn't get rid of either Great comparison tho😊
I do a lot of twisty slow turn, then go riding. For that, I prefer 27.5 because it spins up easier (the exact opposite of the “keep your momentum with 29” discussion). If momentum is the issue, I get it, and agree that 29 is probably the way to go.
Most of us regular joe riders would only notice a difference in feel, and so it comes down to personal preference. Personally, I like 27.5 in a plus configuration, and I like 29 in a standard wheel width configuration.
In my opinion, I wish they would have added another to the mix. Particularly a 27.5 frame(29er frame will have alot of paddle strike issue) mullet setup(29er front 27.5 rear). It would be an interesting comparison with all the mixed wheelset hype.
@@owenissimo i did try it on my scout 290. Not even 5min into the ride, i decided to pull back and tried on my wife marley(the pedal strike was horrendous) On a 27.5 the bottom bracket is lifted up(front end as well) slight. Climb was a bit of a chore but during technical terrain it was great fun. Bashing monster in the front, party the back. I didnt do any measurement on the geo change but that light lift upfront give lil bit more control(point and shoot). I should get myself a scout 275 since hardtail are much cheaper to play with.
I love my 27.5 plus Hardtail, but I am looking at a 29 plus as my next one. I don't race or ride much flow, mostly tech and natural terrain. Occasionally, I ride old trails that don't see much use deep in the forests. Curious as to how this is a good comparison with you two swapping bikes that are not really the correct size for the other?
For me the biggest difference between 27.5 and 29 ( full sus though) was noticeable in bike park. There were some sections where after the berm or tech stuff I had to pedal on 27.5 and 29 just kept that momentum I and I got tired less as a result. 27.5 was more fun in the corners though.
Anna definitely had race face on and the happy bike noises going. Blake's just happy riding Buttercup. Anna looked like a little rocket on the 29er. The 27.5 seemed to fit her height and build though a bit better with the small frame on that bike. I wonder if she would now consider 29 inch rims on her bike after riding Blake's Buttercup?
I went from 26” to 29” and never looked back. I hate to climb and the 29er just rolls over everything so easily. Fitness level and enjoyment of climbing are good factors to take into consideration when picking.
Motor bikes also roll over everything - but I personally don't want to just roll over everything. I want to use my skill & power - it keeps me fit so I prefer a 27.5".
To obsession I'm a function over form kind of guy...however I do have a 27.5" hardtail and find it far more aesthetically pleasing than a 29er. So with the demonstrated performance differences I'll stick with my little wheels.
Well,I can see that the vast majority speeks in favour of 26,but I have to say I have a Scott Scale 70, older model,26,and recently bought Scott Scale 910 carbon 29...I have to say I just adore the 29,but it is due to the fact that I ride only the asphalt,and almost never the trail. Anyway,the way it glides on the road is so pleasant... P.S. Anna,you have such a charming beauty😊
27.5 FS for me, tried a mullet and didnt like it, so I am assuming I would not like a 29er all round, although I admit i have never ridden one. I just dont see myself changing from a 27.5 unless the industry makes me by stopping producing them.
right then I'm gonna turn this upside down, I'm 6ft6 and ride a 29er, I bloody hate it off road, on road or like a gravel trail it's solid and rides well , so i wish i had chosen a 27.
I'm 5'7 1/2 (172 cm) on 27.5 size small with a swapped longer stem. Fits my body size perfect. Sometimes I laugh to myself when I see 5'4 folks (or even shorter) on 29'ers ..... they just look funny but to each their own. The bike marketing industry is tops when it comes to convince people to buy things they don't really need and which don't really fit their body size.
Love the 29er it rolls over stuff easier , easier to turn and faster rolling . Sure either will do but theirs a big reason why the 29er exists , it’s just better over all.
I've got both. 29er is better when you go shopping groceries and stuff like that. Also for people over 60, which I am for year and a half now. Timing and seconds are irrelevant for 99% of bike riders. Smaller bike is lighter, stronger and easier to manipulate, just a few advantages, now you decide how important those are.
You ride what you got, what you can afford and what you can handle. The thing is, just ride
All the gear no idea springs to mind 😂
I agree! Sometimes, you don't have a choice in wheel sizes depending on your height, model of bike, etc.
I’ve been riding a 29 hardtail for a year now and am definitely going back to 27.5. 29er’s roll over stuff (like a tractor) but don’t corner, or jump, or feel very good. I want my bike to be playful and fun to ride. I will gladly give up a couple seconds of speed to have a bike that’s fun and doesn’t ride like a tractor lol!
My 29er is in the Shop and my boss lent me his 26er for my Day off work ,...it was so much more playfull ,it was olmost like a 20 in bmx 👍🚲🤣
Exactly my thoughts and the reason I ride my 27.5+ most of the time “fun”… I also have 29er
@@gmatos123 27.5+ is amazing. You have to nail the tire pressure spot on to unlock it's magic, which is tricky to do. But its the best of both worlds for a hardtail for me
29’s are like riding a monster truck. It has its good moments cruising over stuff….. but when jumping or flicking it about, I feel like a small child who’s riding their dads bike.
Bro yes. You explained it perfectly. Also hate worrying about my a** hitting the rear wheel on a 29er when doing manuals
Crashed hard and broke my elbow on a 29. I swear it's because the 29 is just less agile over jumps/drop offs.
That is the perfect explanation bro. 29er feels like monster truck big to me. This is not my favorite but, I could see its advantage on some super chunky trails.
27.5 i have and a 29er . For me 29er is good but love 27.5 also .
😂
I'm running a Vitus Sentier Vrx on 27.5 and absolutely love it. Something about 29s always feels a bit too big for me. I did, however, grow up riding 26s, so that might be the reason why I'm more confident with smaller wheels.
I've got the Sentier VR 27.5" Feels very playful even for a mediocre rider like me 😁 Tried 29. Rolled fantastically over obstacles but who wants the trail to be smooth 🤔
Having both a 27.5 bike and 29er bike I prefer the 27.5 its just way more playful, agile and a lot easier to flick about.
I've got a 27.5 hardtail too. Just debating if to just upgrade the frame or go in the completely opposite direction and get a 29 full sus 🤔 (the knees aren't getting any younger 👴). But I do like the rawness of just having sus forks 😊 I almost feel hardcore 🤘🤣
What is your height and insider legs dimensions? Just wondering whether 27.5 is more for anyone or it depends on sizes.
@oleksanders1102 I'm 165cm tall with a 70.5cm inseam
Had a 29er. Got a 27.5 and I felt much more in control and comfortable on it. 29er might be quicker but give me the 27.5.
"I can't believe I did the mega on a 27.5."
Blake, you used to be an adamant believer of 27.5. 🤣🤣
I have a 27.5 carbon hardtail. I recently went mullet, and am loving it. Best of both worlds!
Anna and Blake make a brilliant combination. Love it!!
I think it's the 2nd time they present and Blake just brings good chemistry with everyone. I love how he says, "hey beautiful people".
He has a wife!!
@@mateimarconithey have great PROFESSIONAL chemistry! No need to infer anything else, they’re great and entertaining on screen together and that’s the important part.
Unless I am racing (which I don’t anymore) I think the time comparison could actually mislead me to buy one for the wrong reason (does a second really matter in most cases?). I would compare both without time and just feel which size feels more fun and natural, and challenges me to maximize my skills as much as possible, and then choose accordingly. With that said I have both 😂 Great video!
hahaha you nailed it 🤪😎
I come from a BMX back ground and in the Bike Park I ran my 2010 giant Reign SX all the way till '22. I rode one 27.5 for a whole day and really didn't notice the difference so that why I stayed with the 26er for so long. I now have a 27.5 Reign more because of the slacker geo. Than being said since 2020 I have been riding a 29er HT for local trails and its fun but despite it being lighter at 27lbs , with the big wheels I just cant throw it around like my heavier smaller wheeled bike. Blake and Anna were racing for times. If you're just out having fun ,not racing for the absolute best time, a couple seconds doesn't matter. Everyone was having fun on 26's but the market was saturated with them. New standards sell more bikes.
I have recently upgraded massively to a good hard tail. It also meant going up to 29" wheels. I was sceptical at first, but it is so fast, and so smooth I wish I had done it years before.
I really love my 27.5 ht. Especially when making sharp, precise turns I am always happy with the format.
What a great video! I’d love to see a 29/27.5 mullet added into this comparison!
You two together are great presenters
The outside diameter of the 27.5 x 2.6 on my hardtail is almost exactly the o.d. of the 700 x 45 on my gravel bike. I really like that similarity as I’m so frequently jumping between the two bikes, which also have matching chainstay lengths and seattube angles. I didn’t plan it that way, it was just chance, but my body notices, on techy climbs and tight turns especially.
Love my 27.5, I'd have a hard time going up to 29, still also love my old 26 bike :) gonna give the 26er lots of love this summer.
I went for 27.5 scout, as I'm used to my 27.5 Mega. Got the advantage of interchangeable parts too.
Turn it into a mullet! The ultimate hardtail.
I really enjoyed this comparison between these 2 wheel sizes. It turned out the way I expected 🤷🏻♂️. I’m a 29er fan for sure
Just about to build a Nukeproof Scout 275 and I'm glad this video popped up as I was having a bit of doubt about my size choice but my mind is at ease now.
Great video, but I've got to say: Who really cares which is quicker? A trail/enduro hardtail's never going to be a race bike anyway. Which is more fun would be more relevant IMO, but I guess that's too subjective.
For me and my trails: One full sus 29er trail bike (140/130 travel) and one moderately rowdy 27.5" hardtail (120mm travel and 66° HTA). The former for ripping through the woods at speed and the latter for flicking about on tight single track, pump tracks and (trying to) jump. Wouldn't want to part with any of them, and certainly wouldn't want my hardtail to be a 29er. I've got my trail bike for plowing over roots and tech. If you could only have one, I guess 29er hardtail kind of makes sense though.
I have a Kona Fire Mountain 27.5",
And a Surly Krampus 29"
I love my Kona's agility and attitude toward big features,
And I love my Krampus' speed and it's ability to monster truck over roots and rocks.
I had a Hardtail in 27,5 and now I have one in 29 and I have to say, I like it. The 29 is rolling over everything really easily. But it's harder to do anything else on it.
oh shit really like how about jumping over logs? or jumps?
@@chazzthaspazz4475 Well I am not jumping much, but it works fine. Bunny hopping in flat is a bit harder, cuz u have a lot more bike under you or let's say, you are more in the center of the bike and have less space to let it work under you and it's heavier too, but it works. It's also not that agile any more and a bit harder to corner. But all in all I do not regret it, cuz it fits my riding style well. As I said, it rolls over everything and is very stable. I am riding the Canyon Stoic and it's a great Hardtail. Before I had the Scott Voltage Freerider in 26 and a Trail Hardtail in 27,5. For a Trail Hardtail 29 wheels do make sense, if you are not going for Dirtjumping (sure, it can handle that too), because the roll over everything wheels do help a lot in technical terrain. I remember some steep rooty sections on my home trail, that used to send me over the handlebars, but are now really easy game. If I would go for a Fully, I would prefer 27,5, so the suspension can do its job and I would have back the agility. If you consider buying a bike and you are not sure, you need to find a way to test drive it. It's just my personal opinion.
Have just got a 29" trail hardtail, having ridden a 26" full sus for last 10 years. LOVING the hardtail - just flows and goes. 29" wheels roll over stuff so well. Getting some quicker times on my local trails than on the old full sus (although suspect 29" full sus quicker still, but maybe less fun?)
There's still nothing wrong with my 26" wheels...
got 4 26" wheelsets..
Keep telling yourself that... Diminishing hub, rim, and tyre choice for starters. Frame geometry for another... I still own and ride plenty of 26" bikes, but I don't treat them like a modern bike.
Bet your frame is whack
Same here, so much fun with my 26” inch wheels on a 160mm travel FS.
@@Metal-Possum As 26" is still being produced as a kids/teen size MTB (see the nukeproof cub scout) all those parts will still be manufactured. Non boost hubs and straight steerer forks are the only components that may be an issue as time goes on and there are ways of getting around those issues.
I think that the inserts in both wheels on Blake's bike are slowing it down. I had insert on my hardtail in the rear tire and it was noticibly slower, especially uphills. So I get rid of it. And now I'm enjoying the lightness of it. But to compensate the missing insert I'm having more pressure in the rear. Just to protect the wheel.
I had a 160gr insert in the rear. I am slightly faster without it uphill, but I do miss the sidewall support when going down. But I prefer to install it on a XC race just to be calm that the rear will not get a snake bite.
My Chromag Rootdown has 27.5+ on & I have a great time with that beast. Only slightly smaller in diameter than a 29" and lots of cushioning. Don't think I will change too soon.
FWIW, I am 193cm in height.
I have run my meta Ht 29, 27.5, and mullet and I prefer to run it straight 27.5 just so it's as nimble and playful as possible. For me it's all about the feel on a hardtail that's the way I like mine to ride
I will probably stick to my 27,5
I got a short travel trail bike in 27.5 it's awesome for southern Ontario terrain
I am building a Nukeproof scout with 27.5 wheels. My full sus is a 29er so I wanted the 27.5 for more trail biased rides. Both are running innertubes atm.
The best hardtail size is always the one that suits you most!
Lots'a love, cheers, & Mabuhay, from tropical Philippines! #RideOn #KeepBiking
At 6ft 205 lbs I hated my roscoe 8 w 27.5 and 2.6 tires. Now it's a 108t engagement 29er with 2.4s. ❤
ALL THAT hollering and noise. sounds like they are having a blast! MAN Anna is having a lot of fun
Best two bikes, best two presenters! Great vid.
Surprised they didn't do any jumping. I feel that's a benefit for 27.5, the playfulness of the smaller wheels. I feel like it whips better and makes smaller side hits more enjoyable too.
I started with a 27.5" Marin Hard Tail and it's been great. But I come from BMX and really wanted the smaller wheel size. I'm used to it being more nimble and easy to throw around. Which just feels more comfortable to me. But I think a mullet setup would be great. It seems that especially on a hardtail, people swear by it. May have to give that a try sometime.
I don't think there is a wrong answer. Everyone should try both and make a decision based on what they want to do with their bike.
I have a 2014 Transition Carbon Covert 26er Full Susp for air flights a Duthie Hill, 2020 Polygon Syskiu T7 27.5 for nimble trail riding everywhere and a Aliexpress BXT Carbon MTB 29er Hardtail for Strava Leader Board segments. I use them all for different purposes. Great presentation, you two work fabulous together.
Jokes on you. I've run a 26" hardtail for 20 years
In my opinion a mullet is the best option for a playful Enduro hardtail. At least it worked out pretty damn well for me😅
with this particular model, they do not recommend mixing it, unfortunately..
@@JPTHRICE I took a fork with less travel so overall the geometry is pretty close to the original. Worked out great in the past
@@dréøn3095 oh i see! how much less travel?
@@JPTHRICE i Run a 140mm fork so its about 2 cm less
The Front is a Bit Higher than usual but i never Had any problems riding it
I think a mix would be best for an hardtail. 29 at front and a wide 27.5 at the back for some cushioning (2.8 or 2.6)
I have owned both and prefer 27.5 x 2.8. Put the right tires on and it makes a great handling bike.
interseting comment ! ive just bought a whyte 905 23 model with 2.8s and im thinking i wonder what would of happened if the 27.5 bike had 2.8 tyres on?
I've got 27.5 with plus tyres and it's amazing
Have the Nukeproof Scout, immediately switched to 27.5 wheelset. Riding here in Fort Collins,CO. ,the trails are tech , (rock gardens,baby heads, big rock drops and descents, Never like 29s, had 3 in my life, too sloppy slow for fast twitch riding. Hard Tails will never Die. Keep Ripping Blake
When I got my 27.5 the 29 version felt like a hybrid; clearly thing have changed! When i eventually change from my current great 27.5, I will go 29.
Annas Race Face before the start of the first section is pure gold 😅
27.5 on the back, 29 on the front. G2 LT suspension seat post.
I love the techy wormhole track by the side of launch pad,i dont see many people ride that for some reason.
Love GMBN for these great video's, I'm running a 27.5 MTB & a 29er XC bike.
I can't decide to be honest, they are two different bikes, so, the comparison id really difficult to judge.
But, I have to declare, I'm loving the 29er BMX I just purchased (SE 29er), with the dropper saddle, it just blows my mind.
Keep up the great work everyone, you ROCK on the ROCKS folks
@gmbn why not try 27,5+ while youre doing these tests ?
I Loooooooove this hardtail videos ❤️🤟🏾 Blake and Anna Shred!
And here I am on a trek 6500? xc hardtail from 2010, 26" 19mm ID rims and I'm still having fun. Even roadies have wider rims these days...I do wanna upgrade the derailleur though, 3x9 speed doesn't have the best chain retention..or just go 1x9
I’ve got 29 hardtail and 27.5 enduro full squish bike. Perfect
29’s for climbing up hills for sure but 27.5 for playfulness. But @ the end of the day it all comes down to user preference!
i have a 2018 Scout 27.5, and on descents i find that i'm pretty much just as fast as my riding mates on 29" FS trail bikes. on flowy stuff with undulating terrain i tend to pick up speed easier because the smaller wheels and stiff back end pump the trail more efficiently.
Need to add the trusty 26ers into the game their are still a lot of us on them
I'm riding a Salsa Timberjack. I have a wheelset with i39 rims in 27.5" with 2.8" wide tires. I also have a wheelset with i30 rims and 29 x 2.6. On both wheelsets there's a Minion DHF up front and a Rekon on the rear.
I was a die hard 27.5+ fan. For 7 years. And i still prefer it on tight, twisty single track with lots of roots and rocks. Those 2.8's with psi in the mid teens is just sooo good at gobbling up trail chatter and softening blows. Like a 90 x 110 full sus.
BUT...on flow trails with rooted climbs, rock garden features, drop offs, jumps and a smoother, faster trail surface...i really like the 29 x 2.6.
After riding the same more tight and twisty trails that I'd normally ride the 27.5 x 2.8 on, but with the 29 x 2.6 instead...if i HAD to choose one wheelset, it would probably be the 29 x 2.6. I used to HATE 29ers on these trails. But modern trail geometry is SOOOO much better today and the newest Timberjacks are pretty aggressive. I feel 29er geometry has finally caught up to the hype.
I still prefer the 27.5 x 2.8 on those tight, root and rock infested trails, but the 29 x 2.6 was not deal breaker bad. Far from it. Different definitely, but still quite good, especially over big rocks and how it rolled thru compression dips better.
I still dont mind the 27.5 Plus on flow trails. But i like 29 x 2.6 better.
I'm sure my opinions would be much different if i were riding a 27.5 x 2.6 setup. The wider 2.8's are a taller tire and closer to the height of a 29".
I have this exact bike in 27.5 and must say it's an absolute beast of a bike
I just can't get over how Blake managed to put on a GoPro harness at 10:10, then take it off again at 10:15! 😉
I go from 26 fatbike wheels, to 29 plus-hardtail, to 27 trail bike, and they're all fun just different.
I've had a 29 and felt too high, and I got some 27.5 wheels and swapped those on to it and it felt much better.. and then I mulleted it and felt good to. I've since sold the 29er and building a mullet from the frame up.
I have mostly flow and/or rooty trails in my area so climbing and downhill isn't much of an option. But if you feel better on a bike, you will ride it more.
But my work horse is a 26 😊😊.
That was a great comparison i really was intregued by this one well done guys fantastic effort and fantastic presentation cracking pair up you two for this
Never seen her before. She's so rad. These two have some great chemistry. Do some other stuff with Blake and Anna.
She does a great job of representing for the women. That's one really cool thing about MTB is how many women are into it. Basically every time I go to a trail there's a couple of women and I think that's so cool. Compared to something like BMX or skating where it's so rare. It's awesome how open and welcoming MTB is for everyone. You can have men and women, kids and grandparents all riding the same trails and hyping each other up. Nobody should be intimidated by this sport.
It's just a big buzz seeing anyone out there enjoying the same hobby as yourself, just having fun and giving it their best. I'm relatively new to MTB, (but had a background in competitive bmx when I was a kid) and got a second hand Roscoe 7 to get myself into regular fitness (after a knee I jury from running) and I'm absolutely loving it, I try to stop by my local trails everyday after work on my way home weather dependant, and I am slowly getting more confident and faster, but most of all I'm having a blast... and that's all I can think of every time I'm on the trail, that all those new faces are having one too! Just ride.
You can see a lot more videos with Anna over at GMBN Tech! She's one of the main presenters there, but is going to be joining with more videos here in future.
I'm building up a custom frame and went mullet. I haven't ridden it yet, but I designed the geometry specifically for a mullet set up. I guess my thinking is "The best of both worlds". 😉
I love my 2022 Salsa Rangefinder 27.5 hard tail. Big upgrade from my early 2000’s trek 820 😂
Wait for all new 30.5 and 32 inch wheels! Maybe there will also be a special 39 inch be comin...
I have a 29 hardtail and would never drop down, however I have a 26 full sus for my more playful days out and would probably pick 27.5 before a 29.
Definetly building a brand new nukeproof scout 275 racing red frame
Still on a 26". I am looking for a new hardtail, I lean more towards 27,5" love the characteristics of the smaller wheels. But seems to me everything is 29" these days.. great comparison 👍
yea I don't know why they switched to 29, is there really a demand for 29?
@@alf3071 certainly for us 6.5' folks, although, 29ers used to be easier to find for someone of my height, now days they're making them for average height people, making it yet again harder for us to find something that fits.
To me it's like if they started selling my size shoe (17s), but they make the inside so they fit people who wear a 10, instead of actually fitting the people they're intended for lol
Never had a chance to ride a 27.5 as I'm new to MTB, but I freaking love my 29er - Radon Cragger :) My way more experienced friends advised that I take the 29er as a beginner because it rolls over things much better and is easier for climbing, so I listened. I mean it's logical that the smaller wheels will be more playful and probably easier to control, but I can't complain about the 29s eating away most of the stuff at the expense of some control, which I still don't have mostly lol So guess it's better to just roll over things as a noob than try to navigate tricky stuff that a 27.5 would have a harder time rolling over. So the 29er is more forgiving for mistakes and rougher trails.
Most of my previous mountain bike were hard tails. Everyone except my current one were 26 inch. My current one is a 29er. I have not had a 27.5 inch hardtail. To be honest. every mountain bike I have from now on will be a 29er.
Really like the show !! And very interesting comparison, always wondered what/if I would loose by switching from 29" to 27,5". I know now and I keep my 29" Ragley Big Al !! It goes everywhere so easily !!
Thanks Eric! We're glad you liked it, and that you've found the right size for you 👍
Still love my 27.5 hardtail rides so well but also have a 29 but full suspension and love that equally wouldn't get rid of either
Great comparison tho😊
Sounds like a good combo. We're glad you liked the video!
These two are super cute, great combo 💪
I do a lot of twisty slow turn, then go riding. For that, I prefer 27.5 because it spins up easier (the exact opposite of the “keep your momentum with 29” discussion). If momentum is the issue, I get it, and agree that 29 is probably the way to go.
Most of us regular joe riders would only notice a difference in feel, and so it comes down to personal preference. Personally, I like 27.5 in a plus configuration, and I like 29 in a standard wheel width configuration.
love the smile u got talking about hardtails
No-no, 26 is the best! 😛
That’s true!
Absolute playful beasts!!
26 for the comeback!
Ride still my 26"bikes no joke 4 me the best and i am tall 1.93m 3x10 gears and i sell my 29"bike i ride it to rare
you underestimate the power of the 24 😈
@@oliverwilton3567 got a 24er rigid, fun but you get beat up a lot. XD
27.5 Plus FTW
In my opinion, I wish they would have added another to the mix. Particularly a 27.5 frame(29er frame will have alot of paddle strike issue) mullet setup(29er front 27.5 rear). It would be an interesting comparison with all the mixed wheelset hype.
I just built up a mullet hardtail and I love it! It has the thing I like about the 29 and 27.5
@@owenissimo i did try it on my scout 290. Not even 5min into the ride, i decided to pull back and tried on my wife marley(the pedal strike was horrendous) On a 27.5 the bottom bracket is lifted up(front end as well) slight. Climb was a bit of a chore but during technical terrain it was great fun.
Bashing monster in the front, party the back. I didnt do any measurement on the geo change but that light lift upfront give lil bit more control(point and shoot). I should get myself a scout 275 since hardtail are much cheaper to play with.
I love my 27.5 plus Hardtail, but I am looking at a 29 plus as my next one. I don't race or ride much flow, mostly tech and natural terrain. Occasionally, I ride old trails that don't see much use deep in the forests.
Curious as to how this is a good comparison with you two swapping bikes that are not really the correct size for the other?
Good stuff. How about the hardtail mullet? Speed is one thing, but which of the 3 jumps better, especially for learning & progressing?
My Scout rolls on 27.5 Inch Wheels an I love it .
I just gave up my 29 and went back to a 27.5
For me the biggest difference between 27.5 and 29 ( full sus though) was noticeable in bike park. There were some sections where after the berm or tech stuff I had to pedal on 27.5 and 29 just kept that momentum I and I got tired less as a result. 27.5 was more fun in the corners though.
Had 27.5 now on 29 feels better overall
Gf still on 26, planning buy her 27.5 same bike and make us both mullets 27.5 back 29 front 🤭
Anna definitely had race face on and the happy bike noises going. Blake's just happy riding Buttercup. Anna looked like a little rocket on the 29er. The 27.5 seemed to fit her height and build though a bit better with the small frame on that bike. I wonder if she would now consider 29 inch rims on her bike after riding Blake's Buttercup?
I went from 26” to 29” and never looked back. I hate to climb and the 29er just rolls over everything so easily. Fitness level and enjoyment of climbing are good factors to take into consideration when picking.
I did the same, skipped directly to 29 and it was the best decision.
Welcome to the "26 to 29" club. It just crush rocks n ruts like nothing n the speed is blinding fast!
Im vertically challenged, so 27.5 is allright for me.
@@nakitojimo2001cant wait and a bike im lookin at is 2x8 also
Motor bikes also roll over everything - but I personally don't want to just roll over everything. I want to use my skill & power - it keeps me fit so I prefer a 27.5".
To obsession I'm a function over form kind of guy...however I do have a 27.5" hardtail and find it far more aesthetically pleasing than a 29er. So with the demonstrated performance differences I'll stick with my little wheels.
Stanton Switch9er. Awesome bike.
Im still on 26 inch wheels and its great
Well,I can see that the vast majority speeks in favour of 26,but I have to say I have a Scott Scale 70, older model,26,and recently bought Scott Scale 910 carbon 29...I have to say I just adore the 29,but it is due to the fact that I ride only the asphalt,and almost never the trail. Anyway,the way it glides on the road is so pleasant... P.S. Anna,you have such a charming beauty😊
The simping at the end ..... 😂😂 🤷🙈🤦
27.5 FS for me, tried a mullet and didnt like it, so I am assuming I would not like a 29er all round, although I admit i have never ridden one. I just dont see myself changing from a 27.5 unless the industry makes me by stopping producing them.
My weapon of choice is 2022 Patrol 094 HT 29er. It's really fast on rock n ruts n I called it "controlled chaos" 🤟😈
Don’t forget the fun factor. I have the solution. Get one of each. I am much faster on my 29er, but my 27.5 ss is pure enjoyment.
right then I'm gonna turn this upside down,
I'm 6ft6 and ride a 29er, I bloody hate it off road, on road or like a gravel trail it's solid and rides well , so i wish i had chosen a 27.
But why do you hate it? What was/is your comparative experience (27.5? 26?) and why do you prefer it?
Nice vid! it would have been interesting to see also how the mullet configuration worked 😅
I love 26” wheels. Got a 29er hated it, got a 27.5 and loved it.
I think body size and mass also play a factor. I am 5' 7" and 27.5 feels just right for me.
What size of frame are you using, medium or large?
@@LifeOfJamesy Medium.
I'm 5'7 1/2 (172 cm) on 27.5 size small with a swapped longer stem. Fits my body size perfect. Sometimes I laugh to myself when I see 5'4 folks (or even shorter) on 29'ers ..... they just look funny but to each their own. The bike marketing industry is tops when it comes to convince people to buy things they don't really need and which don't really fit their body size.
650b. Always and forever. Amen.
Whyte 901 27.5 hardtail. Love it
Love the 29er it rolls over stuff easier , easier to turn and faster rolling . Sure either will do but theirs a big reason why the 29er exists , it’s just better over all.
I've got both. 29er is better when you go shopping groceries and stuff like that. Also for people over 60, which I am for year and a half now. Timing and seconds are irrelevant for 99% of bike riders. Smaller bike is lighter, stronger and easier to manipulate, just a few advantages, now you decide how important those are.