@@newtube_tube3240 saya sendiri masih menggunakan fork klasik SR Suntour Epicon untuk ban 26 (kalau era sekarang Suntour XCR kalau gak salah), alhamdulillah masih awet hingga sekarang, namun tetap jangan lupa di servis rutin, bisa juga pakai fork "poison" atau "venom" mas.
Sure 29" may be more efficient but 26" will always be more fun. I have had both, the 29er is currently sitting in my back yard covered in pine needles, and my 26 is in my bedroom all clean and perfect.
+jermwhl i feel "lazy"on 29er, like if the bike is extremely heavy, but after measuring it, it`s 11k, and my 26ers is 14kb, although, 26ers feel lighter and faster. sorry 29ers fans
i know my dad has a 29er and I have a 1998 sepcialized rockhopper with a nitanium frame and it weighs about thirty pounds his is about 32 pounds and it feels like a tank when i try to pedal it compared to my bike.
I tried a friend's 29" on a ride, & compared it to my 26" 29"... slower acceleration, but greater top speed... rolls over rough terrain easier, maintaining momentum longer... much softer ride, especially noticeable on rock gardens... maneuvers like a brick... slower responce. Personally, I prefer my 26", because it's more nimble. I feel like a slug on the 29".
Very true, bought my 26r 2 years ago, was a cheap Giant hardtail, i've upgraded most the components over time as I've got better on the trails. I know how my bike behaves and for the moment have no need to change.
I still ride a 1998 Specialized S-Works 26" hardtail mtn bike. I've had really no reason to replace it, I just update the drivetrain every few years and recently slapped a 1x11 Shimano XTR drivetrain on it and it works just fine.
Still riding my Marin front suspension bike from 1997. Upgraded the front shock to a Manitou pro r7 fork. Put on some new tires replaced some components when needed. Rides like a dream!
All my bikes still 26 in 2021 as well. Lovely and flickable around the trails and just as good for bikepacking as well. "29 wheels roll over obstacles so much better"... to which my response has always been "well where's the fun in THAT!!"
tried a 29 for a year. I hate the slow response and it was really heavy. Currently using a 27.5 for my casual ride and 26 for my race. (specialized epic 2008 and 2005 trance) Hope to see the 26 inch live incase my two bikes need to be retired. smaller wheel really helps in weight reduction of full susp setups
I bought my trance shortly before the 29 inch wheels came out since then I've tried the 29 inch wheels and the 650 wheels not for me I like my nice and snappy trance
2021 and I'm still riding (and loving) 26" bikes. Still plenty of decent tire options available. More importantly, Now that it has been a few years, great 26" bikes are selling for peanuts. I'm starting a list of all the drool-worthy 26ers I ever wanted (and couldn't afford), to see how many I can get my hands on before I die. Should be fun.
On my local trails I prefer my 26 to my 29 both full suspension. I'm 54 and it just feels like I can accelerate out of corners so much faster. A real light 29 might feel the same but I'm not spending 8 grand to find out.
+StraitClownin909 same. the first thing I'm going to replace on my next 650b bike will be the wheels. I've heard this intersting thing about 27,5 : "a 650b carbon wheel is as heavy as a 26 alloy wheel" so fuck yeah, the ride will be as fun as the old glorious 26
26" wheels are lighter. I like to climb. I hate climbing hills with a pig of a bike. I rode 26" wheeled bikes for years, bought a shiny new 27.5 and though it was nice and refined but heavy, I sold it and went back to my 26.
@@goodfodder I am 77 ( for real ) and ride a Rocky Mountain Hammer ST3 that is 26" really have no reason to change and the side pull caliper brakes are just fine for me. Disks are for you go fast young guys. Ride to live and live to ride.
I just went from 26" to 29", and it's a BIG leap in size. Although they're fast, and they roll over stuff easily, they make the bike feel HUGE, and often I feel like the bike is in control and I'm just a passenger. Very difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. I'm gradually adapting to them, but I still keep wondering if switching to 27.5" would make me like the bike more.
@@bimmer.joo34 Keep. Maybe at some point buy used bigger one as a second bike and give it a try. I stick with 26" XC with mods for better speed and it never driven so good as now.
My very 1st bike is 26r, after watching this, i realized many things that bike shop dont want me to know,. They keep pushing everyone to upgrade to 29r, but thanks to this video, now my focus is to improve myself,. The bike can wait,..
I totally agree. Having a lot of fun on my 26. I tought about upgrading to 29, but ended up spending that money on a nice roadbike. Still a lot to improve on my skills with the 26, so best of both worlds.
Watch out! The new "boost" frame tech is only a way to use the same frame on various wheel sizes. A little wider for the "I give up" 650b PLUS group.(that's the middle fat tire). A little more clearance for 650/29 crossover. I've tried both, and both are quite a compromise. Too mush "cush" and weight for the PLUS and too much centrifugal/centripetal effect on both. Pedal strike,twitchy steering, odd seat/bottom bracket relationship. Some are hard to stand and pedal while some are too sit-up-and-beg position. We will all have to wind up with 650b for product availability. All those dream components including high end wheelsets and suspension are at a great bargain right now, so if you like you 26r, keep it. Also, stick with BikeRadar for the best info to stay motivated!!!
I love my 26 inch wheel 11 Norco Phaser 3. very nice going into tight corners. Rides smoothly with ease I have ridden a Trek EX9. a test ride it was great. I like both. I love mountain biking.
I want to push my 26 harder and closer to the edge. Current on 26" and the next will be likewise plus it's so much cheaper. Thanks to those that believe all the marketing talk, without you guys changing to a bigger wheel and body size, I will not be able to afford my ream bike!
I love my 26er. haven't tried any 650b's yet but so far most of the 29ers I've tried, I've liked so far but I'm still sticking to my 26er because it still rides well and I got a good deal on it since most people are buying the bigger wheel sizes
I still use my 26 inch MTB and love it. The wheel and tire choices does seem to shrink though. Still I hope to hang onto my MTB a little while longer. It's a 2009 Trek Elite 9.8 which was a nice bike at that time. Even now, 12 years later I still enjoy it.
You just forgot to mention the most important thing, basic of mechanics: 27 and 29 wheels are heavier, and it's weight in motion, the opposite of what is good for an agile and dynamic bike = Fun bike to ride!!! The 2017 (29) Trek Fuel EX7 weights 1,5 kg more than my 2011, part of it is in the wheels... Go ride your trucks hipsters I'll keep my mountain goat! Pure performance is NOT MTB spirit. FUN is!
as a bike tech one thing I am starting to notice in the industry is that manufactures are not making high end parts that are going to be compatible for 26ers. ex. forks all higher end forks now are no longer straight tube they are tapered so if you blow your fork on your 26 good luck replacing it with a decent product. you can sit here and argue which bike is going to be better and I think it all comes down to what your personal opinion is, where you ride, and how you ride all take into consideration. as long as your out there having fun keep at it. last thing I do think 26 will make a comeback in a few years
26" has always been around and it'll always be. Reliable and economical. Bigger wheels doesn't mean faster. It's slimmer tyre and good ass wheel hub makes smoother and faster ride.
Well it took me 5 years before I decided to go dual suspension. I like trying out different riding styles, and getting comfortable with different bikes. And I want to try them all before I can't ride them as hard as I do.
So you can have a higher center of gravity and more chance of injury based on less confidence due to less stability. There's also a power difference. The more I th ink about it, it seems like a cash grab.."the next best thing"
my huge ass screams 26", it would be so much easier to bend a 29" also it is important for me to be more in charge of that weight, i tried 650b but it felt i lost some control over the shit when things got narrow at times. the only thing i enjoyed was the ease of maintaining high speed on flats but it's not what i need in woods
The year is 2020. Nearly 2021 in fact... 'Bout to convert my 2011 Yeti ASR 5c to 27.5" (front) with 26" (rear). Gonna be a party. Will keep this bike going until I crack the frame.
I have a 26'er and I love it. I took my friends 29'er out and it was marginally smooth over bumps, rocks and spaces. My 26'er always own's in the uphill, I hardly break a sweat on an 8% grade when my 29'er friends are in need of more water. Downhill, it spins around every corner, goes over all the rocks, and it happily jumps. In a flat race over a distance, my 26'er always out accelerates however, over a distance the 29'ers do catch me with less peddling. Stunts are much easier on a 26'er, it feels more BMX I guess. Both sizes have advantages, but the 26'er is very universal. As for the 27.5, I don't notice any difference except how fewer stores carry the tire and tube sizes. In a pinch, I can replace my tire and tube at WalMart or FredMyer with a 26'er.
Only one question that i want to ask you. Why the hell you make a video that told us to change to a 27.5" wheeled bikes if you tell us to stick to 26".
still on my 26er and upgrading it. But adding a 27.5 front end has been a blast: more slack & more rollover. the 2010 26er has a steep head angle, so adding slack with a 27.5 front end works.
I used to ride 26“ for 2 years but I got a new 27.5 Enduro this season and I feel how much better it rolls over obstacles and how it carries more speed but I don‘t feel any disadvantages.
Basically, if you like your current 26", don't buy a new bike just for a 27.5". I've been quite interested in getting a Giant Trance or Anthem 27.5, but I don't think I would sell my current 26" hardtail to get it. Different bikes for different purposes.
I'll take my 26" wheels any day. In the Nor Cal trails I ride, lots of technical descents and the 26" makes for more fun & more control IMO. This kinda reminds me of the whole ski length craze of the late 1990's. Remember when riding 205's and 210's were all the rage? lol.. now it's back to short, fat sticks and 170 - 177 is the "respectable length" and 160-165 if ya wanna free ride. Damn history, always repeating itself.
I have ridden 26ers since '95. Just this year I bought a 29er. Broke all my old Strava PR's from the 26er on my 29er. 29 is better. Smoother. Faster. I live in South/Central Texas. Tight single track is all we have and the 29er rails it. Just sayin'
Eric Cartman As far as long climbs up real mountains, not much of that, or high speed decents, but yes there is pretty respectable biking in Texas. I grew up on East coast tight technical terrain, now live in Houston, and we have some trails (not many) locally that are nice and challenging - rough as heck (roots galore, 15-20 drops and climbs that are very steep and severly rooted up by trees. I just saw a bunch of trail videos from Bend OR area and some the ground was so smooth it could have been a sidewalk. Granted I want to go there an ride for sure, but just saying there is pretty rough terrain here. Austin has a heck of scene and you might find it pretty challenging there with all the rocks, sort of the opposite of Houston. You are a dork for saying stuff you don't really have a handle on. For the roots here, 29s do very well.
I race MTB orienteering where there isnt so much single track, this makes my 29er the perfect choice, its got a lower rolling resistance than a 26er, and the frame geometry means its almost as nimble, i use slightly wider bars to help turn it easier but all in all id much prefer it, im 6'4" so the wheel size suits me and doesnt look like im riding as bmx bike as it did with the 26er.
I still run my 2012 specialized demo 8 with 26" wheels and I absolutely love be it to bits I've owned a avanti torrent 2018 27.5" and it was nice that's nice, I love 26" and I hope they never get rid of it
Here, here! Still riding 26 in 2021. Every now and then I switch up parts like putting a rigid fork or making it into a single speed just to make it interesting. I have a 29er that I converted to a single speed as well. Not as fun as the 26. Feels a little sluggish when pumping, IMO. Will be riding 26 til my boys get as tall as me then they can have my 26" bikes. By then, I will ride the 29er full-time. Don't really see a lot of 26 bikes or frames these days unless they're kid's bikes or recreational bikes. Sign of the times I guess.
Still riding my 2013 Chromag Samurai (26") and 2008 Specialized Enduro SL Expert (3 years ago I installed a single crown fork on it due to Specialized not having anymore service parts/ support for the e-150 fork).
A few "small" advantages of smaller bike: Lower center of gravity, more stable. Lighter (think about the cost of improving a part to save 10 grams, and measure how many kilos you save on 26). Much much much stronger frame, fork and wheels. A thing to think about and compare to smother rollover and speed. How many riders measure their times, or actually race? 5%?
In UK there are lots of shops and websites also still selling brand new 26 inch bikes. I got back into riding in 2017 by purchasing a 26" muddyfox livewire. I then after reading about how catalogue stores ship big box bikes with very cheap and also no name components I started to spend money on it to change and upgrade it, to the point it started getting looks and standing out alot. I got alot of the work done at my local decathlon store, by buying components and then taking bike down to them and saying please fit all this. I was surprised how nice it ended up looking and the brilliant cheap price it cost to fit it all. Few people surprised when I said I do sometimes 40 or sometimes little over 40 miles just riding around each day and also going on the canal for very long bike rides alone with headphones in. I tried to get people I know to come riding and greeted with same thing to much hard work, are you mad riding all them miles why you do it. I would say I love it and it's fun. Or one I hate you should have got a car not a bike from people who lazy to ride. Only thing I can't change is the fork it's a zoom 1 inch steerer that has no settings and fork seals are terrible, just rubber that easily can be lifted with hand and stanctions have oil marks on from using lubricate but wipes clean in the coil fork. Decathlon said it has flex in it, when he thought my front wheel was loose I said no it's not. I have the 3 ring setup on it which I want to remove and also think to get hydraulic brakes fitted, and it's a steel bike. I remember one day I took it into a bike shop local to me first time ever and I ended up saying I will never go in there again. Customers are supposed to be treated good but in first meet with this person in his horrible bike shop he said Muddyfox is a terrible make of bike you do know that don't you. Could not believe it and he kept repeating it over and over trying to get me to say yes. Tempted to say your right shall I throw it away in nearest skip. I told him I had upgraded alot of components on my 26" Muddyfox and all he could say was I can see you done that but not worth it for this bike still could not believe it. Especially how in his scruffy shop he had bikes if used and in bad condition dumped on top of each other. So I guess this is how staff are like in scruffy small bike shops. Well I have enjoyed my 26" bike alot saved me money from buses lol, as well as my 29" rockrider am 100s. I will send a link to my 26 inch Muddyfox livewire video this was uploaded a while ago but I have not made it public apart from this link I am posting now. so everyone in this video channel will see it only, until I release it sometime this year. Only thing new since video is sporty green and black awe saddle all links to components in description, also check out my survey apps for making money if you want used some of that money to buy bike stuff also. Check it out hope you like it thanks ruclips.net/video/GSwuYt-zEs8/видео.html
As a more XC/trail rider here on Vancouver Island, on a hardtail(which I chose for simplicity, efficiency, weight, and ride quality-its Ti) there is no way I could go back to 26". Granted, I don't have a car and having to ride to the trail is an influence but I immediately found more benefits than negatives. I had more traction everywhere, cornering is more stable but mostly its the ability to keep going without getting your damn wheel locked up somewhere. The extra freedom in riding various terrain without being hung up is huge. Not to mention riding through almost any terrain is easier with larger wheels, like stream crossings which may be a gamble on a 26er if you miss judged the depth in the middle you can get screwed which I suppose could happen with a 29er it is just far less likely. Now, if I were a dirt jumper or doing tricks like BMX style or even trials then yeah the nimble smaller wheel which is stronger wins out but thats not what I do. Almost forgot, maintaining speed! Huge improvement. I am sure that it accelerates a little slower but the ease with which I can maintain speed is noticeable. The 26" feels like a fight to keep it spinning. I am glad it took off, there clearly was a reason.
2019... Just bought a second hand pair of 26 inch wheels for my specialized ht. I'm not broke and could have bought a shiny new 29er or whatever... But I have many years of memories and tbh size don't matter. ( That's what she said). Don't waste money .
Sticking with my 26. And my 20 bmx, and my 24 folding and my 29, and 700cc. If storage space is not really an issue, I recommend you stick with those too (if you have them). I mean all of those bikes will occupy lesser space than an suv.
The most obvious to me is that if you fall, you fall from a lesser height. Plus there are chances that gravity laws make 26'more less likely to fall than 27,5' or 29', also bc of lesser height
Don't forget that 26" are cheaper to replace, are lighter and you can hang farther over the rear wheel on steep stuff (with less risk of tire rubbing your bum).
type of bike varies with the sport, terrain, and other factors. ie, 26 is better for DH. 29 is better for XC. road bike for roads. folding for commute. at the end of the day, its on individuals preference.
2022, still running in 26 inch 🔥🔥🔥
Yeap i ride an upgraded specialized p2 2006 26" and i will never swap it for any reason it is just too playful...
Suspension depan apa yang pas buat mtb FS (meta commencal am2015) 26 bro?
If it ain't broke!
Same💥
@@newtube_tube3240 saya sendiri masih menggunakan fork klasik SR Suntour Epicon untuk ban 26 (kalau era sekarang Suntour XCR kalau gak salah), alhamdulillah masih awet hingga sekarang, namun tetap jangan lupa di servis rutin, bisa juga pakai fork "poison" atau "venom" mas.
How many 26 inches in 2019
Plenty, especially in Indonesia, many local bicycle manufacturers still use this tire size, yeap 26inch 😄👋
anhkhoi le I'm still with 26" because I don't want to spend the money for a new bike.
Bigger wheels for taller riders it’s not scam if your over 6ft you need big wheels even my bike shop recommended big wheels for my hight
Got a 2012 s works epic 26, absolutely love it
Me
who's here with 26" this 2024?
2019 and I still have a 26er
@@andreicristian1625 me too and I personally think 26ers are the best tire size
Yep! Got a surly 26 plus Instagator
2019🍁
still here in 2019
Yes, 26" easy handling for slope and sharp conner, easy jumping and meneuverability.
Sure 29" may be more efficient but 26" will always be more fun. I have had both, the 29er is currently sitting in my back yard covered in pine needles, and my 26 is in my bedroom all clean and perfect.
+jermwhl i feel "lazy"on 29er, like if the bike is extremely heavy, but after measuring it, it`s 11k, and my 26ers is 14kb, although, 26ers feel lighter and faster. sorry 29ers fans
i know my dad has a 29er and I have a 1998 sepcialized rockhopper with a nitanium frame and it weighs about thirty pounds his is about 32 pounds and it feels like a tank when i try to pedal it compared to my bike.
Mitchdogg1235 Timez hage changed now! rip 26!
THIS GUY DID A BETTER REVIEW THEN THIS SHIT ASS VID HE SUUUUUUUKZ
On the Road
MTB
M O U T A I N B I K E
enougth said
I tried a friend's 29" on a ride, & compared it to my 26"
29"... slower acceleration, but greater top speed... rolls over rough terrain easier, maintaining momentum longer... much softer ride, especially noticeable on rock gardens... maneuvers like a brick... slower responce.
Personally, I prefer my 26", because it's more nimble. I feel like a slug on the 29".
Very true, bought my 26r 2 years ago, was a cheap Giant hardtail, i've upgraded most the components over time as I've got better on the trails. I know how my bike behaves and for the moment have no need to change.
I still ride a 1998 Specialized S-Works 26" hardtail mtn bike. I've had really no reason to replace it, I just update the drivetrain every few years and recently slapped a 1x11 Shimano XTR drivetrain on it and it works just fine.
Ramond Ferreal maybe you should upgrade the suspension or add disc brakes
I tought 1x11 is not compatible for 26"?
Nice bike
@@eddieteo275
Depends on the bike.
Im still riding my 26” Specialized Enduro 2007. i am a small guy so 26 is much better for me.
I have a 29er, a 27.5er, and a 26er....I don't know why but I have been using my 26er more than the other two. Seems like it is more nimble.
Still riding my Marin front suspension bike from 1997. Upgraded the front shock to a Manitou pro r7 fork. Put on some new tires replaced some components when needed. Rides like a dream!
All my bikes still 26 in 2021 as well. Lovely and flickable around the trails and just as good for bikepacking as well. "29 wheels roll over obstacles so much better"... to which my response has always been "well where's the fun in THAT!!"
tried a 29 for a year. I hate the slow response and it was really heavy. Currently using a 27.5 for my casual ride and 26 for my race. (specialized epic 2008 and 2005 trance) Hope to see the 26 inch live incase my two bikes need to be retired. smaller wheel really helps in weight reduction of full susp setups
I bought my trance shortly before the 29 inch wheels came out since then I've tried the 29 inch wheels and the 650 wheels not for me I like my nice and snappy trance
Is it a hard-tail mtb? I currently have a 26" one and was wondering if I can change or keep it
2021 and I'm still riding (and loving) 26" bikes. Still plenty of decent tire options available. More importantly, Now that it has been a few years, great 26" bikes are selling for peanuts. I'm starting a list of all the drool-worthy 26ers I ever wanted (and couldn't afford), to see how many I can get my hands on before I die. Should be fun.
How tall are you?
@@Asian_Kid 5' 10". I hope you're not trying to imply that 26ers aren't for people over 6'. That would be a losing argument right out of the gate.
@@TheCharleseye No, I was just wondering because I'm thinking about buying a 26er and I'm 5'9 so I was wondering if that's too small.
@@Asian_Kid Nope, that's all about the frame size.
26" all the way. Tried both.
On my local trails I prefer my 26 to my 29 both full suspension. I'm 54 and it just feels like I can accelerate out of corners so much faster. A real light 29 might feel the same but I'm not spending 8 grand to find out.
so, how many bikers are still riding a 26 in 2015? :)
90% of people at Whistler according to PinkBike so yeah not dead
I'm still shredding on my 26er. I dont plan on trying out a new wheel size for a while. When I do it will be 650b no question.
+StraitClownin909 same. the first thing I'm going to replace on my next 650b bike will be the wheels. I've heard this intersting thing about 27,5 : "a 650b carbon wheel is as heavy as a 26 alloy wheel" so fuck yeah, the ride will be as fun as the old glorious 26
+simonExplorer Me..I wouldn't part with my 2011 Giant Anthem X1 26r :)
AUDREY GALLAGHER cool. I'm still riding my 2008 Giant Trance 1 advanced 26er ;)
26" wheels are lighter. I like to climb. I hate climbing hills with a pig of a bike. I rode 26" wheeled bikes for years, bought a shiny new 27.5 and though it was nice and refined but heavy, I sold it and went back to my 26.
not to mention gear ratio
@@goodfodder I am 77 ( for real ) and ride a Rocky Mountain Hammer ST3 that is 26" really have no reason to change and the side pull caliper brakes are just fine for me. Disks are for you go fast young guys. Ride to live and live to ride.
I just went from 26" to 29", and it's a BIG leap in size. Although they're fast, and they roll over stuff easily, they make the bike feel HUGE, and often I feel like the bike is in control and I'm just a passenger. Very difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. I'm gradually adapting to them, but I still keep wondering if switching to 27.5" would make me like the bike more.
Ive tried 27.5 and they do feel more bumpy and spin heavy. I ridden bmx and know they can round if you are fit.
Thanks for sharing this, I have a 26" hardtail mtb and was wondering if I should change or keep
@@bimmer.joo34 Keep. Maybe at some point buy used bigger one as a second bike and give it a try. I stick with 26" XC with mods for better speed and it never driven so good as now.
I will stay with 26" size.
Ive had a 26" bike for 8 years now and still going strong!
My very 1st bike is 26r, after watching this, i realized many things that bike shop dont want me to know,. They keep pushing everyone to upgrade to 29r, but thanks to this video, now my focus is to improve myself,. The bike can wait,..
I was born on a 26 and i'm going to die in a 26 ajajjaajja
I totally agree. Having a lot of fun on my 26. I tought about upgrading to 29, but ended up spending that money on a nice roadbike. Still a lot to improve on my skills with the 26, so best of both worlds.
if your not a pro who cares about specs.
Im glad I sitcked to the 26 in wheel. Got an awesome deal and the money I saved I put it into xt parts :)
Thanks man, you just saved me $1800 bucks.
Watch out! The new "boost" frame tech is only a way to use the same frame on various wheel sizes. A little wider for the "I give up" 650b PLUS group.(that's the middle fat tire). A little more clearance for 650/29 crossover. I've tried both, and both are quite a compromise. Too mush "cush" and weight for the PLUS and too much centrifugal/centripetal effect on both. Pedal strike,twitchy steering, odd seat/bottom bracket relationship. Some are hard to stand and pedal while some are too sit-up-and-beg position. We will all have to wind up with 650b for product availability. All those dream components including high end wheelsets and suspension are at a great bargain right now, so if you like you 26r, keep it.
Also, stick with BikeRadar for the best info to stay motivated!!!
I love my 26 inch wheel 11 Norco Phaser 3. very nice going into tight corners. Rides smoothly with ease I have ridden a Trek EX9. a test ride it was great. I like both. I love mountain biking.
I have a 26" MTB and 29". I prefer the 26 machine.
I want to push my 26 harder and closer to the edge. Current on 26" and the next will be likewise plus it's so much cheaper. Thanks to those that believe all the marketing talk, without you guys changing to a bigger wheel and body size, I will not be able to afford my ream bike!
Wow an honest non-marketing video in this day and age! Very impressive!
I just bought a new set of mavic 26ers for my new Cube frame....it's not dead :)
I love my 26er. haven't tried any 650b's yet but so far most of the 29ers I've tried, I've liked so far but I'm still sticking to my 26er because it still rides well and I got a good deal on it since most people are buying the bigger wheel sizes
I still use my 26 inch MTB and love it. The wheel and tire choices does seem to shrink though. Still I hope to hang onto my MTB a little while longer. It's a 2009 Trek Elite 9.8 which was a nice bike at that time. Even now, 12 years later I still enjoy it.
I had one! Great bike
Still riding my Trek ex 7 2012 26”
You just forgot to mention the most important thing, basic of mechanics:
27 and 29 wheels are heavier, and it's weight in motion, the opposite of what is good for an agile and dynamic bike = Fun bike to ride!!!
The 2017 (29) Trek Fuel EX7 weights 1,5 kg more than my 2011, part of it is in the wheels...
Go ride your trucks hipsters I'll keep my mountain goat! Pure performance is NOT MTB spirit. FUN is!
There are plenty of light 29" wheels. from 1350g to 1850g for a set.
Cheap wheels are always going to be heavy.
@@21335186z 26" wheels are still lighter
Got my specialized hardrock 1994 in 2020 i absolutely like it!🙌
as a bike tech one thing I am starting to notice in the industry is that manufactures are not making high end parts that are going to be compatible for 26ers. ex. forks all higher end forks now are no longer straight tube they are tapered so if you blow your fork on your 26 good luck replacing it with a decent product. you can sit here and argue which bike is going to be better and I think it all comes down to what your personal opinion is, where you ride, and how you ride all take into consideration. as long as your out there having fun keep at it. last thing I do think 26 will make a comeback in a few years
If your main bike is still a 26' in 2017
Vintage Rider 26" haro escape hardtail
my main bike is a 26 inch in 2018 and still going to be a 26 in 2019
It's 2019 and I'm still on 26 in my Commencal Furious VIP, sweet ride.
26 in still 2019
26 in 2019 and going on.
26" has always been around and it'll always be. Reliable and economical. Bigger wheels doesn't mean faster. It's slimmer tyre and good ass wheel hub makes smoother and faster ride.
Fun is fun, even if you have small wheels
We couldn't agree more!
I love my 26er. Not sure I'll go 29 for a few years yet.
or ever.
Well it took me 5 years before I decided to go dual suspension. I like trying out different riding styles, and getting comfortable with different bikes. And I want to try them all before I can't ride them as hard as I do.
DONT they hate ruts & lose ballance no matter what kind you get their is sutch a thing as 2 big 29ers do make awsome street bikes tho
Out of intrest did you ever swich
If 26 wheel is more fun (and it is) why i should move to 29? To be a bit faster? I im not a racer. Then why?
So you can have a higher center of gravity and more chance of injury based on less confidence due to less stability. There's also a power difference. The more I th ink about it, it seems like a cash grab.."the next best thing"
my huge ass screams 26", it would be so much easier to bend a 29"
also it is important for me to be more in charge of that weight, i tried 650b but it felt i lost some control over the shit when things got narrow at times.
the only thing i enjoyed was the ease of maintaining high speed on flats but it's not what i need in woods
The year is 2020. Nearly 2021 in fact... 'Bout to convert my 2011 Yeti ASR 5c to 27.5" (front) with 26" (rear). Gonna be a party. Will keep this bike going until I crack the frame.
I still keep my 26er, but I'm willing to buy a 29er just to see the exact difference between them. So far 26er has done very well in the last 4 years.
I have a 26'er and I love it. I took my friends 29'er out and it was marginally smooth over bumps, rocks and spaces. My 26'er always own's in the uphill, I hardly break a sweat on an 8% grade when my 29'er friends are in need of more water.
Downhill, it spins around every corner, goes over all the rocks, and it happily jumps. In a flat race over a distance, my 26'er always out accelerates however, over a distance the 29'ers do catch me with less peddling. Stunts are much easier on a 26'er, it feels more BMX I guess. Both sizes have advantages, but the 26'er is very universal. As for the 27.5, I don't notice any difference except how fewer stores carry the tire and tube sizes. In a pinch, I can replace my tire and tube at WalMart or FredMyer with a 26'er.
Only one question that i want to ask you.
Why the hell you make a video that told us to change to a 27.5" wheeled bikes if you tell us to stick to 26".
We are simply pointing out the facts - which bike you buy is up to you.
BikeRadar do you think 26" bikes are gonna be dead soon??.. if so will i have to shift to a 24"??
Drop down to 20" just to be sure.
Yosua Andri Ignatius Sagala they're just telling you reasons they're not forcing you
kendra krossplus
2019, Still use 26 for my hybrid mtb....good agility in commuter (bike to work) 😆
Thank you Bike Radar , 26 ain't dead
still on my 26er and upgrading it.
But adding a 27.5 front end has been a blast: more slack & more rollover. the 2010 26er has a steep head angle, so adding slack with a 27.5 front end works.
I was going to do the exact thing on my Intense Tracer…glad you said that cuz I love the bike just want newer forks/27.5 front.
I love my two 26". Not changing any time soon :o)
Just yesterday, rode my 26 mtn bike 2020 ! The seat post dropper is a must though !
Agreed 200%, screw other sizes their just marketing gimmicks!
Still rocking 26" wheels in 2021
The best performing and best durability overall tipes of terrain is the 26" FOREVER!!!!!!!!!
i have 26 inch bike... if i want a larger size wheelset i can just install a 27.5... not a problem.😁
26" for life!!!!!!! ( ... Life of the bike that is... )
I used to ride 26“ for 2 years but I got a new 27.5 Enduro this season and I feel how much better it rolls over obstacles and how it carries more speed but I don‘t feel any disadvantages.
I like the 650b but the 26'' is still my favorite. You can't beat the agility of the 26''
Basically, if you like your current 26", don't buy a new bike just for a 27.5".
I've been quite interested in getting a Giant Trance or Anthem 27.5, but I don't think I would sell my current 26" hardtail to get it. Different bikes for different purposes.
26" wheels might be stronger.
I'll take my 26" wheels any day. In the Nor Cal trails I ride, lots of technical descents and the 26" makes for more fun & more control IMO. This kinda reminds me of the whole ski length craze of the late 1990's. Remember when riding 205's and 210's were all the rage? lol.. now it's back to short, fat sticks and 170 - 177 is the "respectable length" and 160-165 if ya wanna free ride. Damn history, always repeating itself.
Bike Radar is to bikes what The Daily Mail is to journalism!
Now Feb 2021 and I’m still rocking my GT idrive Comp 26er!
I have ridden 26ers since '95. Just this year I bought a 29er. Broke all my old Strava PR's from the 26er on my 29er. 29 is better. Smoother. Faster. I live in South/Central Texas. Tight single track is all we have and the 29er rails it. Just sayin'
Same thoughts and experience here in TN/VA,tight technical,hilly singletrack. Went 29 in 2008
Eric Cartman I have ridden in Durango and Flagstaff and Sedona. Texas has one of the best XC race series in the nation.
Eric Cartman ,Uh.....I'm in Tennessee,but I've ridden trail in 37 of the lower 48 states (unless you were talking to someone else?) ;)
Sigh (rolling my eyes)
Eric Cartman As far as long climbs up real mountains, not much of that, or high speed decents, but yes there is pretty respectable biking in Texas. I grew up on East coast tight technical terrain, now live in Houston, and we have some trails (not many) locally that are nice and challenging - rough as heck (roots galore, 15-20 drops and climbs that are very steep and severly rooted up by trees. I just saw a bunch of trail videos from Bend OR area and some the ground was so smooth it could have been a sidewalk. Granted I want to go there an ride for sure, but just saying there is pretty rough terrain here. Austin has a heck of scene and you might find it pretty challenging there with all the rocks, sort of the opposite of Houston. You are a dork for saying stuff you don't really have a handle on. For the roots here, 29s do very well.
I'm riding my Giant Rincon with 26" wheels and love it!!
Haha first mountain bike but a trance after that one
Both my hard tail and full suspension are 26in
I race MTB orienteering where there isnt so much single track, this makes my 29er the perfect choice, its got a lower rolling resistance than a 26er, and the frame geometry means its almost as nimble, i use slightly wider bars to help turn it easier but all in all id much prefer it, im 6'4" so the wheel size suits me and doesnt look like im riding as bmx bike as it did with the 26er.
Any 26´´ in 2020 ?
I still run my 2012 specialized demo 8 with 26" wheels and I absolutely love be it to bits I've owned a avanti torrent 2018 27.5" and it was nice that's nice, I love 26" and I hope they never get rid of it
29er bike look ugly
+iqmal rockers have seen a small person on a 29er? looks like the person is on a tractor iauhisahusa,
In 2021 still 26 😂.. but front I get 27.5. I'm much enjoy my bike.
Got a 2006 Giant Anthem LE 26" - It's the dog's nuts - light and super nimble
2021 - Still rocking it
Still riding 26" in 2020.
Who else is?
Alexander Pauli yuppppp
Still riding my 2004 Specialized FSR XC with upgrades all over it.
I still upgrade my 26 polygon bike
Here, here! Still riding 26 in 2021. Every now and then I switch up parts like putting a rigid fork or making it into a single speed just to make it interesting. I have a 29er that I converted to a single speed as well. Not as fun as the 26. Feels a little sluggish when pumping, IMO. Will be riding 26 til my boys get as tall as me then they can have my 26" bikes. By then, I will ride the 29er full-time. Don't really see a lot of 26 bikes or frames these days unless they're kid's bikes or recreational bikes. Sign of the times I guess.
Still riding my 2013 Chromag Samurai (26") and 2008 Specialized Enduro SL Expert (3 years ago I installed a single crown fork on it due to Specialized not having anymore service parts/ support for the e-150 fork).
2022 still riding a 2011 rocky mountain element 70msl lol
Still on a 26 inch in 2019
I like 26" on mtb trail and bike packing,
the manufacture should cont upgrade the 26"
Xc=29
Enduro and dh= 27.5 and 26
Not true I prefer 27.5 for xc with my trails in my area
I have 26 on my XC and 27.5 on my Enduro...
A few "small" advantages of smaller bike: Lower center of gravity, more stable. Lighter (think about the cost of improving a part to save 10 grams, and measure how many kilos you save on 26). Much much much stronger frame, fork and wheels. A thing to think about and compare to smother rollover and speed. How many riders measure their times, or actually race? 5%?
still riding 26"
In UK there are lots of shops and websites also still selling brand new 26 inch bikes. I got back into riding in 2017 by purchasing a 26" muddyfox livewire. I then after reading about how catalogue stores ship big box bikes with very cheap and also no name components I started to spend money on it to change and upgrade it, to the point it started getting looks and standing out alot. I got alot of the work done at my local decathlon store, by buying components and then taking bike down to them and saying please fit all this. I was surprised how nice it ended up looking and the brilliant cheap price it cost to fit it all. Few people surprised when I said I do sometimes 40 or sometimes little over 40 miles just riding around each day and also going on the canal for very long bike rides alone with headphones in. I tried to get people I know to come riding and greeted with same thing to much hard work, are you mad riding all them miles why you do it. I would say I love it and it's fun. Or one I hate you should have got a car not a bike from people who lazy to ride. Only thing I can't change is the fork it's a zoom 1 inch steerer that has no settings and fork seals are terrible, just rubber that easily can be lifted with hand and stanctions have oil marks on from using lubricate but wipes clean in the coil fork. Decathlon said it has flex in it, when he thought my front wheel was loose I said no it's not. I have the 3 ring setup on it which I want to remove and also think to get hydraulic brakes fitted, and it's a steel bike. I remember one day I took it into a bike shop local to me first time ever and I ended up saying I will never go in there again. Customers are supposed to be treated good but in first meet with this person in his horrible bike shop he said Muddyfox is a terrible make of bike you do know that don't you. Could not believe it and he kept repeating it over and over trying to get me to say yes. Tempted to say your right shall I throw it away in nearest skip. I told him I had upgraded alot of components on my 26" Muddyfox and all he could say was I can see you done that but not worth it for this bike still could not believe it. Especially how in his scruffy shop he had bikes if used and in bad condition dumped on top of each other. So I guess this is how staff are like in scruffy small bike shops. Well I have enjoyed my 26" bike alot saved me money from buses lol, as well as my 29" rockrider am 100s. I will send a link to my 26 inch Muddyfox livewire video this was uploaded a while ago but I have not made it public apart from this link I am posting now. so everyone in this video channel will see it only, until I release it sometime this year. Only thing new since video is sporty green and black awe saddle all links to components in description, also check out my survey apps for making money if you want used some of that money to buy bike stuff also. Check it out hope you like it thanks ruclips.net/video/GSwuYt-zEs8/видео.html
THE GARNER COLLECTIVE The video is private. Change it to Public or Unlisted so that others can see
Your video is private can't see
As a more XC/trail rider here on Vancouver Island, on a hardtail(which I chose for simplicity, efficiency, weight, and ride quality-its Ti) there is no way I could go back to 26". Granted, I don't have a car and having to ride to the trail is an influence but I immediately found more benefits than negatives. I had more traction everywhere, cornering is more stable but mostly its the ability to keep going without getting your damn wheel locked up somewhere. The extra freedom in riding various terrain without being hung up is huge. Not to mention riding through almost any terrain is easier with larger wheels, like stream crossings which may be a gamble on a 26er if you miss judged the depth in the middle you can get screwed which I suppose could happen with a 29er it is just far less likely. Now, if I were a dirt jumper or doing tricks like BMX style or even trials then yeah the nimble smaller wheel which is stronger wins out but thats not what I do. Almost forgot, maintaining speed! Huge improvement. I am sure that it accelerates a little slower but the ease with which I can maintain speed is noticeable. The 26" feels like a fight to keep it spinning.
I am glad it took off, there clearly was a reason.
2019... Just bought a second hand pair of 26 inch wheels for my specialized ht. I'm not broke and could have bought a shiny new 29er or whatever... But I have many years of memories and tbh size don't matter. ( That's what she said). Don't waste money .
this is when business and marketing people take control over the company instead of engineers
Well, if that were true, then why are XCers on 29ers? 27.5 is what's marketing. How on earth can you feel a 0.75" difference in wheel height?
Just ride and compare, you will feel the difference.
+ThingsDemystified *1.5"
Still riding 26 2022 baby I just pulled a new Cannondale full suspension off the collotors rack 😉😜
The Illuminati made me buy a 29er :(
Kevin Skelton Nice👍
my MTB , is 26, and i can tell, it's fast and i enjoy riding it everywhere
For everyday commuting, 26 is the way to go.
using the same 26' frame with 27,5 wheels!!
Thats 4 years ago. What about 2019?
Sticking with my 26. And my 20 bmx, and my 24 folding and my 29, and 700cc. If storage space is not really an issue, I recommend you stick with those too (if you have them). I mean all of those bikes will occupy lesser space than an suv.
This aged well
The most obvious to me is that if you fall, you fall from a lesser height. Plus there are chances that gravity laws make 26'more less likely to fall than 27,5' or 29', also bc of lesser height
I still love my 26" MTB, but why the monkey are almost all the MTBs with 29 inch wheels now?
Don't forget that 26" are cheaper to replace, are lighter and you can hang farther over the rear wheel on steep stuff (with less risk of tire rubbing your bum).
Any 26" owner this 2024?
I have a 2014 Specialized Enduro SX which I love! I use it for 4X, Dual slalom and razzing about!
~ Will
@@bikeradar Nice I just got a 2011 Specialized Hard rock for free and putting $500 AUD to upgrade it!
Who's still running them in 2021? I am!
Yes me2
26" all day! every day!!
type of bike varies with the sport, terrain, and other factors. ie, 26 is better for DH. 29 is better for XC. road bike for roads. folding for commute. at the end of the day, its on individuals preference.