I appreciate your videos Clint, I enjoy the in depth reviews on different products. I like gravel cycling and mountain biking and I have found your channel very useful.
Terrific info and comparison, Clint, as always. Thanks! I tend to agree with your general findings thus far; but I also think there are so many variables that one should try to do a lot of demos on one's typical trails in order to make a reasonable decision that's good for them. For example: the type trails you ride the most, trail conditions, your skill level, your weight/height, the suspension kinematics, bike setup, bike geometry/build, having a good day or not, etc. A great time to be a MTB'er, eh? Just wish the prices were more approachable for more people.
Just stick with the 27.5. You have two 29ers for specialty race purpose. Get a 27.5 for fun, leave the spandex and heart rate monitors at home and start following your son’s lines. Look at that kid having a blast!! Lol. If you ever get up to DC or WV/ western MD hmu and I’ll show you around.
I ride a 27.5. While 29s have their benefits for sure I feel like it's almost becoming a bandwagon size as many people do not fully analyze both sizes and what will work best for them and the trails they are riding and simply go 29 due to current popularity.
Informative and entertaining stuff as always. I have a 29er with 130mm travel front and back and my buddy has a 27.5 with a 160/150mm combo. I’ve got a Fox 34 fork and he’s running a RS Pike up front. We will both be running the same clipless pedals this upcoming season and we’re also on XL sizes so we will be swapping bikes back and forth on local trails frequently for a comparison. This series of videos will be a nice companion to our own testing and the results should be interesting. It’ll be something to look forward to after the winter up here in Canada.
My Trek Fuel EX 9.8 came stock with 2.6s and a Fox 36..Still under 30 lbs...i love it!! coming from a 27.5 i can feel the difference in the corners like you said. I still think i like the stability of the 29 and the ability to roll more technical terrain.
I went 29r to 27.5 both hardtails. Frame geo was the biggest difference,for me. I’m 6ft 3in new bike has a slacker head angle. Can bomb trails now and jump as good as any of the locals at my trails. I’m 50 years young by the way 🤘
Great video Clint, was a good to get your perspective on this. I got a 2020 trance 29er on the way now, and was nervous about it, as I am a short(5'6") rider, and never tried a 29er before, but the benefits of the 29er you talk about is what I am looking for in my ride
I’m 5’6’’ as well and bought a Diamondback release 29 2, about a month ago. My previous bike was a Trek Roscoe 27.5+. The 29 is taking some getting used to. The 27.5+ hardtail is so nimble and fun to ride.
Crazy how every rider experiences something different. I think rider size has a lot to do with it. I have 4" and probably 20lbs on Clint Gibbs. For me... a 27.5+ pressured down to around 28-30 psi just floats over chunder like a pillow, grips loose top soil, and is easier to control when dropping a foot and cutting corners. Loving my 2020 Stumpy...
I made the leap from 26" wheels to 29" in 2017 from a Titus RacerX to a Niner Air9 hardtail and ended up selling the Titus! I bought a '13 Giant Trance X0 29er in '18 which is pure joy to ride. I've never ridden a 27.5 but am intrigued to say the least. Good vid Clint!
Thanks Clint for deep analysis!I was on 29/27.5 for months,now I am back on 27.5.X2.60On 29 I wa salways like high from the ground and that huge wheel doesnt works well in very steep and tight terrain
It’s all depends on which kind bikes and what kind of build. All the attributes are already known ,which is better in this or that. But you can compensate with build change.
Thanks for the video Clint. I found your thoughts on the relative attributes of these two bikes and wheel sizes helpful for me in picking my new bike. I've ridden a Canyon LUX 29er cross country bike for a few years and wanted something different to complement, not replace, that bike. I ended up with the Cannondale Bad Habit 27.5+ with 2.8" tires. The absolute difference in tire and wheel size between these two bikes is less than 2 cm, measuring tire and wheel diameter, but the 2.8" tire size gives great traction; I feel like I can climb or descend almost anything compared to the Canyon. That of course is also due to difference in suspension travel of 100/100mm on the Canyon vs 140/130mm on the Bad Habit. I realize that my perspective is different from your comparison since I was not directly comparing a 29" to 27.5" but rather looking for an all-around trail bike to complement my XC bike, and be something very different in ride feel and experience from the XC bike. I look forward to your future videos on this subject and everything else you cover on you channel!
I'm leaving my 2017 yeti sb5.5 29er for the 2020 yeti sb140 27.5 with 2.6 tires. Really feels like a nice sweet spot for me. I personally dont like how the 29er stalls out in corners and tracks wherever it wants to go compared to the 27.5 where I can pop out of corners and make adjustments on the fly.
I think it comes down to personal preference. I enjoy my 160 mm travel front & back trail bike. (& dropper) Lots of travel for the switchback trails in my area. But for me, I like the playfulness and the fact that I can quickly regain speed after tight corners. I find I have a lot more fun and confidence than my cross country 29er, but there’s a lot of differences between those 2 bikes than wheel size. FYI- I’m 6’2” and 195 lbs. Get out and ride!
@Clint Gibbs I like the way you are going about this test and I agree with all your points on each bike/size. In doing a similar test to yours I'd say it comes down to what characteristics you want your bike to have on the trail. At the end of the day, a person adapts to what they are riding on a regular basis. The difference between the two sizes is very noticeable when ridden back to back BUT when you ride one bike all the time, the difference is less noticeable. All this being said, bikes are made to be fun, so have fun on whichever one you choose! 👍👍👍
😱, No more 29er trance.. I bought my trance in the fall, your reviews of it led me to buy one. The bike opted for must be awesome because I am having a blast on my trance although it has been hanging for a bit. To much ice and snow
Very learnful for me who's looking for a new bike. Want ro change my 2017 Giant Anthem 2 in 27.5 for an XC-Trail carbon 29''. Would like to keep 120mm at front... Perfect for the type of trails that I ride!
I really appreciate that speak about "feel" and nuances of each bike. I have a 2003 Santa Cruz Blur 26' wheels. Test rode a 140mm travel 29er for the first time last month and I was surprised how well it climbed (as well as my 26lbs XC bike). I'm sure the 29er was 32lbs, but I didn't feel the weight. I'm turning 60 this Summer, hoping to get a new bike, I ride smooth flowy trails (mostly always Blue). My dream bike would have 120-125mm of travel and be able to use 27.5 or 29ers. My budget is somewhere in the $4,000 range. I have a short list, (Pivot Mach 4, Canyon Neureon/Lux, Ibis Ripley or another Blur or perhaps a Tallboy) but was wondering what bike do you feel would work best for my needs? Thank you. Triple
That's a good list. I've owned a Pivot before and it was a good bike but the DW link is not as supple as other suspension designs. Personal preference but I like a bike more supple. That's why I really like Niner bikes. They pedal extremely well and are very supple on the downhills. I'm about to get one of the new Jet 9's. That would be a good bike. On your list I would say the Santa Cruz.
Always thought smaller wheel sizes were funner. Some 29ers I've ridden feel numb like I'm driving a school bus. I do believe in 29 for XC but for the trail 27.5 ftw. Trail riding is all about fun anyway.
Clint, where are you at in North Carolina? Would love to meet up sometime! I live just south of Apex in New Hill between Jordan and Harris Lake. Let me know if your up for it.
I’ve noticed that too. It’s on my short list along with Marin, Vitus and Fezarri. Really wish they sold the Trance 2 in the US, that seems like a perfect spec!
@@hillcountrymax That's funny that is my exact shortlist as well Marin, Vitus, Fezarri. What is the Trance 2 where can you get it and how much does it cost. I might look into it and use one of the virtual mailboxes to have it shipped and then forwarded to me.
AMW 47 Go to Giant’s site for Canada. Just remember the prices are listed in Canadian Dollars and you have to factor in 17% GST. Same component spec as the Trance 29 2, but on the 27.5 Trance frame and travel numbers. Full (new) SLX, Fox Float DPS and Fox 34 Rhythm and so on.
IMO the main 2 areas to consider are: where you ride; how tall you are. I am 5’ 8” and just on the limit of 29. Any shorter and wouldn’t consider it. Also, in tight technical trails with mud 27.5 just seem nicer to ride. I am on a 29 and think speed-wise there isn’t any difference taking into account the benefits of each.
I looked at both sizes of the Trance and ended up going with the 27.5. If the 29er had 130 travel in the back I would've gone that route instead, but when I rode the 29 it just felt like it would go through the rear travel too quickly, a skinnier rider would probably make better use of the 29s limited travel. The 27.5 just felt a little more plush to me, while also being very poppy and playful (the Trance 29 is also very agile and playful for a 29er).
Interesting comments. I've been watching you for a while and I remember that a few years ago you preferred 27.5. I'll be curious to see which you end up with this time. Personally, I'm with Dawson on the 27.5 bandwagon, although I prefer mine with 2.6 maxxis tires on a hardtail.
I guess I am just wondering what a trail bike is today. A bike with 150mm front with 140/150mm rear is now trail...wasn't that long ago that was an all mountain bike. I've got the 19' Trance 29 and its fantastic...I call it my pedal bike. I ride it when ever I think I am gonna be putting some miles on. Tho I have ridden it down South Mountains National Trail (check it out, its rocky, chunky and kinda nasty) and had my PR on it. My "big" bike is a 18' Rock Mountain Altitude 27.5, 150mm rear and 160mm front..RM calls it all mountain / enduro. I really dunno what is what anymore. As always Clint I love the videos so keep them coming and I will keep watching. Cheers Bo
hey there clint. i'm looking at a 2016 Scott Scale 700 frame, to replace a Focus Mares CX, as a drop-bar monstercross type thing. i'm really looking for more relaxed, more upright geometry, with the ability to accommodate bigger tires (currently 40mm is the absolute max). however, i would like to use the current 700c wheels i have (velocity aileron) for this build. i've done a bit of math, and the difference in rim radius between a 27.5 and a 29 (700c) is 19mm i'm wondering what the real-world tire clearance would be with that wheel, plus a 2"-2.25" tire. both radially, and chainstay clearance? i do a lot of dirt events up in vermont, and looking for something beefier to get me up and over the steep, rocky, rutted, muddy, rooty uphill pave/class-4 sections. cheers!
Don’t know if you’ve said the size of the giant you’ve been testing. I assume it’s a medium. I’m a tick under 5-8, and right now I’m interested in testing the small trance 29er.
@@ClintGibbs Thought so, If I see you I will holler and say what's up. I saw your son at Alafia around Thanksgiving and said hey. Keep up the great content.
Clint, to what extent do you subscribe to the theory that the wetter it is and the more the slippery roots at all sorts of angles, the more the inclination towards a 27.5 and flats, whereas the drier it is, the greater the inclination towards a 29er and clip-ins?
I think 29 has the advantage as far as grip on wet roots. 27.5 has the advantage in that you're lower to the ground, typically. Honestly, I can get my foot off a clipess pedal quicker than flats. I have to pick my foot up and then out on flats. With clipless I just move it to the side. I've been riding clipless for over 20 years so I can get out in a blink of an eye.
I've demoed a bunch of 29er and 27,7 bikes (i have a 27,5+ bike) and for my riding style (fast bike parky trails, narrow rocky trails and steeper type dirtjumps) the 27,5 is just better, the 29 stumpjumper i demoed made me feel like was gonna go over the bars on steepr jumps😬
On that previous video the trance genuinely looked the more exciting bike you were attacking the corners and terrain with more agression. The 27.5 left me a bit numb to be honest
great videos, thanks for putting all the time in to make them. would you recommend a 27.5 or 29er for a 5'4" rider for a mix of calmer rail trails, fitness and pavement?
Hey Clint, just found your channel recently and have enjoyed your content. I had a decisive question, hoping you or one of the followers could help. I want to upgrade to a trail bike but most of my home trails have lots of climbing and not too technical decents. Is there a bike you would recommend? Thank you
If they are really tight then a bike like this or a 29er with about 120 mm of travel in the back. If they are not really tight I still would go with the 29er. if your trails are very smooth and you ride a lot of dirt roads then go with a hardtail 29er.
I run my rip 9 with carbon wheels such a livery stiff feel. rides so well. you tried ti 27.5 on carbon weels? if you got 5 take a look at my vid on the rip9 when I first got her
This. Absolutely this. Where I live you only need a 29er XC style bike. Full suspension isn't even necessary around here. I'm currently building a aggressive, longer travel 27.5 hardtail, so I can travel to more desirable terrain.
Twenty Niners excel in cross-country and light trail use conditions. 650b bikes typically work best in heavy-duty trail type conditions. I agree with Clint in his assessment about the two different sizes. I like to have both sizes for the flexibility to ride my local trails in Salt Lake one day and Moab the next. Great videos, keep up the good work.
"29ers excel in XC and light trail conditions"? Uhhh...just ask any downhill, enduro, and heavy-duty trail rider, not to mention all the Enduro and Downhill world champions about the 29ers they ride. You are so wrong.
Never under estimate the power of a 26 lol. It does make me sad to know that one day I'll end up buying a new mtb and it'll have to be 27.5 since 26 is gone.
@@LowRollinGroove we need a moment of silence for the passing away of a 26 mtb. Mine is down right now but it's for some minor mantaince and a rear shock rebuild.
Mellissa Nash 2.6 has all the advantages of 2.8 with none of the drawbacks. When I first rode 2.8s I loved ‘em. But that was real rocky gnar with the pressure low. And I still love them there. But then I got them on more hard pack with banked turns and- not good. Too squishy, even set at higher psi, and too big and lumbering. 2.6s allow you to air down for gnar, get a big wide contact patch, but when aired up feel pretty much like a 2.3 or 2.4 in tire on hard pack and in turns, just with more grip. You can also ride them all the time with a little less psi since you have a rigid and they would probably work in all situations.
@@michivanhalen7086 love it, got a 2020 YT Jeffsy 27.5. So much more fun and nimble. Fits my style perfectly. Less travel and bigger wheels is the exact opposite of what I want
@@ColoursCapello What model did you get? What did you compare it to or previously own? I am interested in one- want trail (uphill) friendly but also some bike park action
Simon Brouwer I got the Reign 2020 29 2 (lol) as it's perfect for the type of riding that I do and the aluminium frame gives me the confidence I like over carbon which I no longer trust. I've found the bike to be phenomenal at climbing, surprisingly nimble for a 29er on trails and very stable. I actually chose the Reign over the Trek Slash and Trek Remedy because ... I just flat out felt better riding the Reign. The only issue I've had is the seat. You need to swap out the stock seat as it's an arse killer.
I think your describing the differences quite well after comparing both sizes myself recently. I'm starting the think that for long rides, over two hours, 29 would work great or if I just want a relaxing calm ride. I haven't yet decided on a clear preference since one bike, 27, is also a hard tail, so harder to compare. Perhaps I need to demo a f/s 27?
Its simply preference. The real issue here as i have stated on this channel so many times is simply the cost of these bikes represented is simply ridiculous in 2020. We have 800 dollar bikes available that are more competent than 99 percent of the riders in 7005 alumunum with more than enough travel and they are faster. We have 1,200 dollar T800 carbon frame xc trail bikes that fly over trails. We have 900 dollar 6061 enduro bikes that will do Whistler all day long, or 1,500 free ride bikes that will demolish whistler. This pricing is something that ruined mountain biking because its simply not better, and ii will put money on that bet all day long. Alibaba as a market place in the end is pure consumer oriented and whatever this is Clint isnt.
I am 6'3" and 220 lbs so just have it in my head that the larger 29" wheel is more suited to me and never considered a 27.5". What are your thoughts on heights as you are only 5'8"
Darrin White I know plenty of taller guys that ride 27.5. I think it has less to do with height and more to do with riding styles and background. Especially now as frames and reaches are getting longer. An active rider, who really likes to control the bike and flick it around, maybe jump over that rooty section, with a bmx or similar background, is going to probably prefer a 27.5. A rider coming from (gasp) road riding, or who is less of an active rider, prefers to plow that rooty section, will probably prefer a 29er.
A little too much rambling! These comments are pretty typical of the comparison between wheel size. It’s very difficult to compare because geometry and tires can make more difference than wheels size. Just say’in.
Love your opinion, currently have a trek superfly xc bike, looking at a more trail/ all mountain, looking at a trek remedy or fuel ex, or the transition scout....
Imo Remedy or Scout over Fuel everyday. But Horst link and Full Floater- never feel like they pedal as well as others. Check out my rig- Santa Cruz Bronson or the Santa Cruz Hightower. Or Pivot’s new Switchblade. Or the Yeti SB 130 or SB 150, or Ibis Mojo5 or Ripmo. All these climb and pedal better with at least equal if not better descending.
I appreciate your videos Clint, I enjoy the in depth reviews on different products. I like gravel cycling and mountain biking and I have found your channel very useful.
29er - Best rollover, Fast! at speed. 27.5 - Spins up to speed fast! Plus size - Unbelievable bite!
Terrific info and comparison, Clint, as always. Thanks!
I tend to agree with your general findings thus far; but I also think there are so many variables that one should try to do a lot of demos on one's typical trails in order to make a reasonable decision that's good for them. For example: the type trails you ride the most, trail conditions, your skill level, your weight/height, the suspension kinematics, bike setup, bike geometry/build, having a good day or not, etc.
A great time to be a MTB'er, eh? Just wish the prices were more approachable for more people.
Just stick with the 27.5. You have two 29ers for specialty race purpose. Get a 27.5 for fun, leave the spandex and heart rate monitors at home and start following your son’s lines. Look at that kid having a blast!! Lol. If you ever get up to DC or WV/ western MD hmu and I’ll show you around.
29er - big sky Backcountry riding. 27.5 - thight Midwest trails with lines created by squirrels on meth.
Those darn squirrels 😂
squirrels 🤣
I ride a 27.5. While 29s have their benefits for sure I feel like it's almost becoming a bandwagon size as many people do not fully analyze both sizes and what will work best for them and the trails they are riding and simply go 29 due to current popularity.
Informative and entertaining stuff as always. I have a 29er with 130mm travel front and back and my buddy has a 27.5 with a 160/150mm combo. I’ve got a Fox 34 fork and he’s running a RS Pike up front. We will both be running the same clipless pedals this upcoming season and we’re also on XL sizes so we will be swapping bikes back and forth on local trails frequently for a comparison. This series of videos will be a nice companion to our own testing and the results should be interesting. It’ll be something to look forward to after the winter up here in Canada.
So what was the result?
My Trek Fuel EX 9.8 came stock with 2.6s and a Fox 36..Still under 30 lbs...i love it!! coming from a 27.5 i can feel the difference in the corners like you said. I still think i like the stability of the 29 and the ability to roll more technical terrain.
watching this while having a 26er dh...
26 is a way of life.
Watching this with my 26" 2013 trance x3 lol
I went 29r to 27.5 both hardtails. Frame geo was the biggest difference,for me. I’m 6ft 3in new bike has a slacker head angle. Can bomb trails now and jump as good as any of the locals at my trails. I’m 50 years young by the way 🤘
What hardtail did u get and are you on plus tires?
BitCanics I have a polygon TR6 ,maxiis minion 2.8 tyres tubeless .
They should just come out with a 28 1/4 so we can settle this thing.
They would do it if it would sell.
Great video Clint, was a good to get your perspective on this. I got a 2020 trance 29er on the way now, and was nervous about it, as I am a short(5'6") rider, and never tried a 29er before, but the benefits of the 29er you talk about is what I am looking for in my ride
I’m 5’6’’ as well and bought a Diamondback release 29 2, about a month ago. My previous bike was a Trek Roscoe 27.5+. The 29 is taking some getting used to. The 27.5+ hardtail is so nimble and fun to ride.
Crazy how every rider experiences something different. I think rider size has a lot to do with it. I have 4" and probably 20lbs on Clint Gibbs. For me... a 27.5+ pressured down to around 28-30 psi just floats over chunder like a pillow, grips loose top soil, and is easier to control when dropping a foot and cutting corners. Loving my 2020 Stumpy...
30psi on 27.5+? that is a lot for a plus tire. with my 6fattie i was running 20-22.
I ride the Giant Trance 29-1 XL because of your info....LOVE MY BIKE!!!!! Hope to see you at Santos.
I made the leap from 26" wheels to 29" in 2017 from a Titus RacerX to a Niner Air9 hardtail and ended up selling the Titus! I bought a '13 Giant Trance X0 29er in '18 which is pure joy to ride. I've never ridden a 27.5 but am intrigued to say the least. Good vid Clint!
Thanks Clint for deep analysis!I was on 29/27.5 for months,now I am back on 27.5.X2.60On 29 I wa salways like high from the ground and that huge wheel doesnt works well in very steep and tight terrain
I'd love to see you review both the 29" Revel Rascal & the 27.5" Rail
I’m btw those 2 bikes! Riding 27.5 but I tried 2 29ers and I like how they roll!
I want to buy the polygon xtrada 6. Would you recommend 27.5 or 29?
29
Good insights and thanks for the video
It’s all depends on which kind bikes and what kind of build. All the attributes are already known ,which is better in this or that. But you can compensate with build change.
Thanks for the video Clint. I found your thoughts on the relative attributes of these two bikes and wheel sizes helpful for me in picking my new bike. I've ridden a Canyon LUX 29er cross country bike for a few years and wanted something different to complement, not replace, that bike. I ended up with the Cannondale Bad Habit 27.5+ with 2.8" tires. The absolute difference in tire and wheel size between these two bikes is less than 2 cm, measuring tire and wheel diameter, but the 2.8" tire size gives great traction; I feel like I can climb or descend almost anything compared to the Canyon. That of course is also due to difference in suspension travel of 100/100mm on the Canyon vs 140/130mm on the Bad Habit. I realize that my perspective is different from your comparison since I was not directly comparing a 29" to 27.5" but rather looking for an all-around trail bike to complement my XC bike, and be something very different in ride feel and experience from the XC bike. I look forward to your future videos on this subject and everything else you cover on you channel!
I'm leaving my 2017 yeti sb5.5 29er for the 2020 yeti sb140 27.5 with 2.6 tires. Really feels like a nice sweet spot for me. I personally dont like how the 29er stalls out in corners and tracks wherever it wants to go compared to the 27.5 where I can pop out of corners and make adjustments on the fly.
I think it comes down to personal preference. I enjoy my 160 mm travel front & back trail bike. (& dropper) Lots of travel for the switchback trails in my area. But for me, I like the playfulness and the fact that I can quickly regain speed after tight corners. I find I have a lot more fun and confidence than my cross country 29er, but there’s a lot of differences between those 2 bikes than wheel size. FYI- I’m 6’2” and 195 lbs. Get out and ride!
@Clint Gibbs I like the way you are going about this test and I agree with all your points on each bike/size. In doing a similar test to yours I'd say it comes down to what characteristics you want your bike to have on the trail. At the end of the day, a person adapts to what they are riding on a regular basis. The difference between the two sizes is very noticeable when ridden back to back BUT when you ride one bike all the time, the difference is less noticeable. All this being said, bikes are made to be fun, so have fun on whichever one you choose! 👍👍👍
😱, No more 29er trance.. I bought my trance in the fall, your reviews of it led me to buy one. The bike opted for must be awesome because I am having a blast on my trance although it has been hanging for a bit. To much ice and snow
Trance 29 is a great bike that I highly recommend. It was just time to move on to try something new.
Very learnful for me who's looking for a new bike. Want ro change my 2017 Giant Anthem 2 in 27.5 for an XC-Trail carbon 29''. Would like to keep 120mm at front... Perfect for the type of trails that I ride!
Maybe try a "Mullet" set up.....29 front and 27.5 rear. More and more riders are enjoying the mixed set up.
I really appreciate that speak about "feel" and nuances of each bike. I have a 2003 Santa Cruz Blur 26' wheels.
Test rode a 140mm travel 29er for the first time last month and I was surprised how well it climbed (as well as my 26lbs XC bike). I'm sure the 29er was 32lbs, but I didn't feel the weight.
I'm turning 60 this Summer, hoping to get a new bike, I ride smooth flowy trails (mostly always Blue). My dream bike would have 120-125mm of travel and be able to use 27.5 or 29ers. My budget is somewhere in the $4,000 range. I have a short list, (Pivot Mach 4, Canyon Neureon/Lux, Ibis Ripley or another Blur or perhaps a Tallboy) but was wondering what bike do you feel would work best for my needs? Thank you. Triple
That's a good list. I've owned a Pivot before and it was a good bike but the DW link is not as supple as other suspension designs. Personal preference but I like a bike more supple. That's why I really like Niner bikes. They pedal extremely well and are very supple on the downhills. I'm about to get one of the new Jet 9's. That would be a good bike. On your list I would say the Santa Cruz.
Always thought smaller wheel sizes were funner. Some 29ers I've ridden feel numb like I'm driving a school bus. I do believe in 29 for XC but for the trail 27.5 ftw. Trail riding is all about fun anyway.
29 all the way for me.
Clint, where are you at in North Carolina? Would love to meet up sometime! I live just south of Apex in New Hill between Jordan and Harris Lake. Let me know if your up for it.
I actually live in North Central Florida but get up to North Carolina whenever I can. Just got back tonight! Rode DuPont, Pisgah and Kanuga Bike Park.
Now I wanna know big mullet 79er vs small mullet 76er.
Clint I would love to see a review of the 2020 Trance 3 I can't find much anywhere. Keep up the good work.
I’ve noticed that too. It’s on my short list along with Marin, Vitus and Fezarri.
Really wish they sold the Trance 2 in the US, that seems like a perfect spec!
@@hillcountrymax That's funny that is my exact shortlist as well Marin, Vitus, Fezarri. What is the Trance 2 where can you get it and how much does it cost. I might look into it and use one of the virtual mailboxes to have it shipped and then forwarded to me.
AMW 47 Go to Giant’s site for Canada. Just remember the prices are listed in Canadian Dollars and you have to factor in 17% GST.
Same component spec as the Trance 29 2, but on the 27.5 Trance frame and travel numbers. Full (new) SLX, Fox Float DPS and Fox 34 Rhythm and so on.
@@hillcountrymax Thanks for the info. Perhaps it would be worth shipping it in from Canada I will check it out!
what size niner frame are you riding and how tall are you ?
Medium. 5'8" (173cm)
@@ClintGibbs I'm 5'11 should I go to a large or medium?
@@bitcanics6892 large
IMO the main 2 areas to consider are: where you ride; how tall you are. I am 5’ 8” and just on the limit of 29. Any shorter and wouldn’t consider it. Also, in tight technical trails with mud 27.5 just seem nicer to ride. I am on a 29 and think speed-wise there isn’t any difference taking into account the benefits of each.
I looked at both sizes of the Trance and ended up going with the 27.5. If the 29er had 130 travel in the back I would've gone that route instead, but when I rode the 29 it just felt like it would go through the rear travel too quickly, a skinnier rider would probably make better use of the 29s limited travel. The 27.5 just felt a little more plush to me, while also being very poppy and playful (the Trance 29 is also very agile and playful for a 29er).
Interesting comments. I've been watching you for a while and I remember that a few years ago you preferred 27.5. I'll be curious to see which you end up with this time. Personally, I'm with Dawson on the 27.5 bandwagon, although I prefer mine with 2.6 maxxis tires on a hardtail.
I think I'm a get the Rockhopper comp over the pitch comp. The 29 inch wheel feels better.
I guess I am just wondering what a trail bike is today. A bike with 150mm front with 140/150mm rear is now trail...wasn't that long ago that was an all mountain bike. I've got the 19' Trance 29 and its fantastic...I call it my pedal bike. I ride it when ever I think I am gonna be putting some miles on. Tho I have ridden it down South Mountains National Trail (check it out, its rocky, chunky and kinda nasty) and had my PR on it. My "big" bike is a 18' Rock Mountain Altitude 27.5, 150mm rear and 160mm front..RM calls it all mountain / enduro. I really dunno what is what anymore. As always Clint I love the videos so keep them coming and I will keep watching.
Cheers Bo
Sir Clint. How about hard tail? I have talon 27.5 im planning to upgrade it to fathom 29er. please give me advise if you have time. thank you
I enjoy riding full suspension more than a hard tail. But if you do go hard tail definitely go 29.
@@ClintGibbs thank you sir.
Flickable Clint...not frisky 😳
27.5 full suspension.... hard tail 29.
You think 27.5 is better?
Keith Palacios 100%
hey there clint. i'm looking at a 2016 Scott Scale 700 frame, to replace a Focus Mares CX, as a drop-bar monstercross type thing. i'm really looking for more relaxed, more upright geometry, with the ability to accommodate bigger tires (currently 40mm is the absolute max).
however, i would like to use the current 700c wheels i have (velocity aileron) for this build. i've done a bit of math, and the difference in rim radius between a 27.5 and a 29 (700c) is 19mm
i'm wondering what the real-world tire clearance would be with that wheel, plus a 2"-2.25" tire. both radially, and chainstay clearance?
i do a lot of dirt events up in vermont, and looking for something beefier to get me up and over the steep, rocky, rutted, muddy, rooty uphill pave/class-4 sections.
cheers!
Would all that still apply if you used a hardtail? Or does 27.5+ still make sense then?
Plus tires just have a different feel. More planted, less "poppy". Been a while since I've ridden one so it's hard to give a direct comparison.
Don’t know if you’ve said the size of the giant you’ve been testing. I assume it’s a medium. I’m a tick under 5-8, and right now I’m interested in testing the small trance 29er.
Medium. I'm just over 5'8"
It would have been cool if you had the RIP 9 RDO 29 to compare to the RIP 9 RDO 27.5. That would be the most accurate way to test the wheel size.
I had the 29 version for a while. It feels more Enduro
Are you and your son going to be at the Santos Fat Tire festival in a few weeks?
Yes, most likely
@@ClintGibbs Thought so, If I see you I will holler and say what's up. I saw your son at Alafia around Thanksgiving and said hey. Keep up the great content.
@@netposerx 👍
I wish the test was between the Niner 29 and 27.5 with the same spec rather than the Giant Trance.
The 27.5 RIP and mid travel 29 feel like they are made for more similar terrain. The 29 feels more Enduro. I put quite a few miles on the 29 version.
Clint, to what extent do you subscribe to the theory that the wetter it is and the more the slippery roots at all sorts of angles, the more the inclination towards a 27.5 and flats, whereas the drier it is, the greater the inclination towards a 29er and clip-ins?
I think 29 has the advantage as far as grip on wet roots. 27.5 has the advantage in that you're lower to the ground, typically. Honestly, I can get my foot off a clipess pedal quicker than flats. I have to pick my foot up and then out on flats. With clipless I just move it to the side. I've been riding clipless for over 20 years so I can get out in a blink of an eye.
Wouldn't have been better to compare the niner on 27.5 Vs 29 versions of the same model?
No, and I'll talk about that in an upcoming video. I did have the 29er version for a while.
Great Information Clint. Can I ask how tall you are? Most reviews fail to mention this.
5'8"
Great info..especially since im 5'8
I've demoed a bunch of 29er and 27,7 bikes (i have a 27,5+ bike) and for my riding style (fast bike parky trails, narrow rocky trails and steeper type dirtjumps) the 27,5 is just better, the 29 stumpjumper i demoed made me feel like was gonna go over the bars on steepr jumps😬
27.5 🤙
Clint you need to try a mullet, thats the only thing i think you havent experience with
On that previous video the trance genuinely looked the more exciting bike you were attacking the corners and terrain with more agression. The 27.5 left me a bit numb to be honest
Intrested in more talk about rider height in this test. I am 5'9" riding a trance 29 2 and wonder if a 27.5 would be better for the shorter rider.
With 5'9" you're not short, you're tall. I'm 6'1" and like my 27.5 bike, my parkbike is a mullet with 27.5/26
great videos, thanks for putting all the time in to make them. would you recommend a 27.5 or 29er for a 5'4" rider for a mix of calmer rail trails, fitness and pavement?
29 hardtail
Dennis Johnson I agree with Clint. Also, I would recommend narrow fast rolling tires with some nobbies but not too much.
Hey Clint, just found your channel recently and have enjoyed your content. I had a decisive question, hoping you or one of the followers could help. I want to upgrade to a trail bike but most of my home trails have lots of climbing and not too technical decents. Is there a bike you would recommend? Thank you
If they are really tight then a bike like this or a 29er with about 120 mm of travel in the back. If they are not really tight I still would go with the 29er. if your trails are very smooth and you ride a lot of dirt roads then go with a hardtail 29er.
@@ClintGibbs thanks for the help
I run my rip 9 with carbon wheels such a livery stiff feel. rides so well. you tried ti 27.5 on carbon weels?
if you got 5 take a look at my vid on the rip9 when I first got her
I think MTB is regional....I ride a 27.5 in Ohio and I had a 29er but it seemed to big for the trails I ride
This. Absolutely this. Where I live you only need a 29er XC style bike. Full suspension isn't even necessary around here. I'm currently building a aggressive, longer travel 27.5 hardtail, so I can travel to more desirable terrain.
sanduskyohiobro Truth! I’m in Ohio as well and I feel like the xc 29er is way too big for most trails here. Going to make the jump to 27.5 here soon.
@@r3troact1v I agree I got rid of my 29er it just seemed bulky for our trails.
@@r3troact1v Where in Ohio?
sanduskyohiobro Youngstown. I rode Milton, West Branch, East Rim, and Hampton Hills a lot. Always down to ride with some new peeps!
Twenty Niners excel in cross-country and light trail use conditions. 650b bikes typically work best in heavy-duty trail type conditions. I agree with Clint in his assessment about the two different sizes. I like to have both sizes for the flexibility to ride my local trails in Salt Lake one day and Moab the next. Great videos, keep up the good work.
"29ers excel in XC and light trail conditions"? Uhhh...just ask any downhill, enduro, and heavy-duty trail rider, not to mention all the Enduro and Downhill world champions about the 29ers they ride. You are so wrong.
Mullet bike is the way to go. 😁
Niner is making 27.5 bikes now?
This sounds like ur trying to split hairs. It really depends on the rider and the terrain period! I’ve seen someone on a 26 kick ass.
Never under estimate the power of a 26 lol. It does make me sad to know that one day I'll end up buying a new mtb and it'll have to be 27.5 since 26 is gone.
@@buckroger6456 My 2009 26" just died... so I'm here learning
@@LowRollinGroove we need a moment of silence for the passing away of a 26 mtb.
Mine is down right now but it's for some minor mantaince and a rear shock rebuild.
What's up Clint, im tossed up between a giant and yeti, what do you recommend?
mrbbollywood Yeti !!
Yeti...all the way...or Niner or Transition 😉
Pole
Do you prefer 29 & 27.5 tires in 2.6 size over 2.8?
Yes
@@ClintGibbs Thank you. I take 2.6 rolls better than 2.8?
Once you get above 2.6 the tire just feels too heavy.
@@ClintGibbs Thank you. Got my first 27.5x2.8 rigid trail bike & thinking about swapping to 2.6 in the back.
Mellissa Nash 2.6 has all the advantages of 2.8 with none of the drawbacks. When I first rode 2.8s I loved ‘em. But that was real rocky gnar with the pressure low. And I still love them there. But then I got them on more hard pack with banked turns and- not good. Too squishy, even set at higher psi, and too big and lumbering. 2.6s allow you to air down for gnar, get a big wide contact patch, but when aired up feel pretty much like a 2.3 or 2.4 in tire on hard pack and in turns, just with more grip. You can also ride them all the time with a little less psi since you have a rigid and they would probably work in all situations.
im personally going to a 27.5 from a 29er
I have a 27.5 and rhinking of getting a 29, but im not sure...
27.5 for life
How do you like it?
@@michivanhalen7086 love it, got a 2020 YT Jeffsy 27.5. So much more fun and nimble. Fits my style perfectly. Less travel and bigger wheels is the exact opposite of what I want
@@Runk3lsmcdougal sounds awesome. How tall are you?
When are you goin to test the new reign 29? I need info
I got my Reign 29 a month ago. I love the thing.
@@ColoursCapello What model did you get? What did you compare it to or previously own? I am interested in one- want trail (uphill) friendly but also some bike park action
Simon Brouwer I got the Reign 2020 29 2 (lol) as it's perfect for the type of riding that I do and the aluminium frame gives me the confidence I like over carbon which I no longer trust. I've found the bike to be phenomenal at climbing, surprisingly nimble for a 29er on trails and very stable. I actually chose the Reign over the Trek Slash and Trek Remedy because ... I just flat out felt better riding the Reign. The only issue I've had is the seat. You need to swap out the stock seat as it's an arse killer.
I think your describing the differences quite well after comparing both sizes myself recently. I'm starting the think that for long rides, over two hours, 29 would work great or if I just want a relaxing calm ride. I haven't yet decided on a clear preference since one bike, 27, is also a hard tail, so harder to compare. Perhaps I need to demo a f/s 27?
Grant Spoon agree completely on your assessment of 29ers. Try to demo a 150mmish 27.5. Try my personal fav the Bronson. Bmx for grown ups.
Its simply preference. The real issue here as i have stated on this channel so many times is simply the cost of these bikes represented is simply ridiculous in 2020. We have 800 dollar bikes available that are more competent than 99 percent of the riders in 7005 alumunum with more than enough travel and they are faster. We have 1,200 dollar T800 carbon frame xc trail bikes that fly over trails. We have 900 dollar 6061 enduro bikes that will do Whistler all day long, or 1,500 free ride bikes that will demolish whistler. This pricing is something that ruined mountain biking because its simply not better, and ii will put money on that bet all day long. Alibaba as a market place in the end is pure consumer oriented and whatever this is Clint isnt.
I guess the solution is to get both.
I am 6'3" and 220 lbs so just have it in my head that the larger 29" wheel is more suited to me and never considered a 27.5". What are your thoughts on heights as you are only 5'8"
Darrin White I know plenty of taller guys that ride 27.5. I think it has less to do with height and more to do with riding styles and background. Especially now as frames and reaches are getting longer. An active rider, who really likes to control the bike and flick it around, maybe jump over that rooty section, with a bmx or similar background, is going to probably prefer a 27.5. A rider coming from (gasp) road riding, or who is less of an active rider, prefers to plow that rooty section, will probably prefer a 29er.
Niner gots a Fiver!
Sounds like you need a Pike on your 29er.
A little too much rambling! These comments are pretty typical of the comparison between wheel size. It’s very difficult to compare because geometry and tires can make more difference than wheels size. Just say’in.
Love your opinion, currently have a trek superfly xc bike, looking at a more trail/ all mountain, looking at a trek remedy or fuel ex, or the transition scout....
Imo Remedy or Scout over Fuel everyday. But Horst link and Full Floater- never feel like they pedal as well as others. Check out my rig- Santa Cruz Bronson or the Santa Cruz Hightower. Or Pivot’s new Switchblade. Or the Yeti SB 130 or SB 150, or Ibis Mojo5 or Ripmo. All these climb and pedal better with at least equal if not better descending.
Are you going to see seth's bike hacks
27.5 out handles a 29er here in Florida .
29", but 27.5 for jibbing
Actually 27”
27.5"