When choosing mountain bike wheels, the options boil down to 29-inch and 27.5-inch. Each size offers some distinct advantages depending on your riding style and preference for speed, agility, and stability. 29-inch wheels (29ers). XC riders, downhill

When choosing mountain bike wheels, the options boil down to 29-inch and 27.5-inch. Each size offers some distinct advantages depending on your riding style and preference for speed, agility, and stability.29-inch wheels (29ers)XC riders, downhillers, and trail riders. 29ers are great for maintaining speed in cross-country, offer smoothness for downhill, and provide stability and confidence for trail riding.<ul><li>Faster Speed Maintenance: Once a 29-inch wheel gains momentum, it keeps its speed longer.</li><li>Smooth Over Obstacles: Larger wheels navigate over obstacles more easily, similar to how a larger bike wheel rolls over cracks better than a skateboard wheel.</li><li>Stability at Speed: Thanks to a longer wheelbase and lower bottom bracket, 29ers are generally more stable when moving fast.</li><li>Responsive and Agile: Modern design has made 29-inch wheels as responsive as smaller ones.</li></ul>27.5-inch wheelsAgile and maneuverable bikes, particularly on tight, technical trails or those requiring substantial suspension.<ul><li>Quick Acceleration: These wheels pick up speed quickly, especially after slowing down for corners.</li><li>Stable and Smooth: More stable and smoother than 26-inch wheels.</li><li>Flexible Frame Design: Allows for tighter angles and smaller sizes, offering a more nimble ride.</li><li>Strong and Responsive: Known for their strength, stiffness, and fun ride.</li></ul>A wheelie short summary<ul><li>Acceleration: 29&quot; is good, 27.5&quot; is best.</li><li>Smoothness: 29&quot; offers the smoothest ride, while 27.5&quot; is also good.</li><li>Rolling Speed: 29&quot; maintains the best rolling speed.</li><li>Agility: 27.5&quot; excels in agility, although 29&quot; is also competent.</li><li>Stiffness: 27.5&quot; wheels are stiffer, but 29&quot; aren&apos;t far behind.</li><li>Stability: 29&quot; wheels provide superior stability, with 27.5&quot; also performing well.</li></ul>

29-inch vs 27.5-inch mtb wheels: Making the Right Choice

Wheel sizes for gravel riding essentially fall into two popular wheel sizes: 700c and 650b. Both have their unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different styles of gravel riding. Whether you have a Camino, El Camino or Sed

Wheel sizes for gravel riding essentially fall into two popular wheel sizes: 700c and 650b. Both have their unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different styles of gravel riding.Whether you have a Camino, El Camino or Sedona our gravel frame sets can accommodate any of these sizes.700c Wheels: The Classic ChoiceIdeal for riders focused on speed and efficiency, particularly on smoother gravel roads or for longer distances. 700c wheels are great for riders who transition from tarmac to gravel or those who prioritize a fast, efficient ride.<ul><li>Faster Rolling on Open Terrain: 700c wheels, with their larger diameter, roll faster on smooth and open gravel. They maintain momentum efficiently, making them ideal for long-distance rides on varied but predominantly smooth surfaces.</li><li>Better for Taller Riders: The larger size of 700c wheels tends to suit taller riders better, offering a more proportional fit and ride experience.</li><li>Greater Efficiency: These wheels provide more efficiency over long distances due to their larger circumference, which translates to covering more ground with each pedal stroke.</li><li>Variety in Tire Choices: The 700c wheel size is common in road and gravel biking, ensuring a wide range of tire options.</li></ul>650b Wheels: Nimble and ComfortableA top choice for riders tackling more technical, rougher terrain, or those who prioritize comfort and maneuverability over outright speed. 650b wheels are ideal for adventurous riders who face varied, challenging surfaces.<ul><li>Enhanced Maneuverability: The smaller diameter of 650b wheels makes for a more nimble and responsive bike, perfect for technical trails and tight turns.</li><li>Increased Comfort: These wheels allow for wider, more voluminous tires, which can be run at lower pressures. This setup absorbs bumps and vibrations, offering a more comfortable ride on rough terrains.</li><li>Better for Shorter Riders: The proportionally smaller size of 650b wheels can offer a better fit and handling experience for shorter riders.</li><li>Versatility in Rough Conditions: The ability to fit wider tires makes 650b wheels particularly versatile for rougher, more technical gravel rides or even singletrack.</li></ul>Our wheelie short summary<ul><li>Rolling Efficiency: 700c excels in efficient rolling, particularly on smoother surfaces.</li><li>Maneuverability: 650b offers superior maneuverability in tight and technical trails.</li><li>Comfort: 650b leads in comfort, especially with wider tires on rough terrains.</li><li>Speed: On open, smooth gravel, 700c wheels maintain higher speeds more easily.</li><li>Terrain Adaptability: 650b wheels are more adaptable to a variety of rough terrains.</li><li>Rider Fit: 700c suits taller riders, while 650b can be better for shorter riders.</li></ul>In conclusion, the choice between 700c and 650b wheels for gravel bikes depends on the type of terrain you plan to ride, your comfort preferences, and your riding style. 700c wheels are ideal for speed and efficiency on smoother paths, while 650b wheels offer a more comfortable and agile ride on rough and technical trails.

700c vs 650b wheel sets for Gravel Bikes

Click on the arrow above to open up the contact form.
Our team are available 
Monday 09:00 - 17:30 BST (excluding Bank Holidays)
Tuesday 10:30 - 17:30 BST
Wednesday 10:30 - 17:30 BST
Thursday 09:00 - 17:30 BST
Friday 09:00 - 17:30 BST

Phone numbers, available between:
Monday 09:00 - 17:00 BST (excluding Bank Holidays)
Tuesday 10:30 - 17:00 BST
Wednesday 10:30 - 17:00 BST
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00 BST
Friday 09:00 - 17:00 BST

Alpkit Support

Choosing the best wheel set for your set up

Wheelsets

SONDER BIKES

How long will it take to receive my order?

How do I track my order?

Where will my order come from?

Where is my bike?

How do I cancel or change my order?

There is something wrong with my order, what should I do?

I received a faulty item, what should I do?

Where can I view my order history?

What are Pre Orders?

Do you offer bulk discounts?

How do I make a complaint?

What payment options do you offer?

When will you be back in stock?

Can you deduct VAT from my order?

How long is the sale on for?

Do you do student/NHS/Military/bluelight discount?

What do I do next with my repair/wash order?

Can I use more than one discount at once?

Where can I find the dimensions/stats?

How do I change my Password?

Can I collect my order in store?

ORDERING & PAYMENT

How much does shipping cost?

Do you offer free shipping?

Which couriers do you use?

Can you deliver to BFPO addresses?

Do you ship to Canada?

Do you ship to the USA?

Do you ship to Europe?

Do you ship to Australia and New Zealand?

Do I need to pay additional customs or duties charges?

I haven't received my order, what should I do?

SHIPPING & DELIVERIES

What is your return policy?

Can I exchange an item for something else?

How soon will I get my refund?

How do I make a return?

What items are not eligible for return?

International Returns

How long does it take to process a return?

How do I make a warranty claim?

Have you got my return?

I haven't got a printer for my return, what do I do?

How do I get my refund if I paid by gift card?

RETURNS & EXCHANGES

Can you repair products?

Can I get a spare part for my product?

What is the Sonder 28 day ride guarantee?

What are Repair Stations?

What is the Accident Replacement Scheme?

What is Alpkit's warranty policy?

What is the Alpine Bond?

WARRANTY & REPAIRS

Setting up your bike once you receive it

How to choose the right size bike

Can I demo a bike?

How to buy a bike through Cycle to Work

Cycle to Work Vouchers

What size El Camino is for me?

How does the e-bike motor work?

What is the best drive system for an electric bike, hub drive or mid-drive?

What kind of terrain can an electric gravel bike handle?

How long does it take to charge the El Camino battery?

Is the El Camino battery and motor replaceable?

What is the life expectancy of the El Camino battery?

How do I charge the El Camino ebike battery?

What kind of battery does the El Camino use?

How do you operate the El Camino?

Can I legally ride electric bikes on public roads? Do  I need tax, insurance or a licence to ride an e-bikes?

Can I use an electric bike for long distance rides, multi-day touring and bikepacking?

Do I need to pedal to ride El Camino?

What is the ideal gearing for a gravel bike?

Can I ride an electric bike if the battery is flat?

What electronic drive system does El Camino use?

El Camino

Technology

Where can I find product instructions?

Washing your outdoor clothing

Clothing

Oxbow canoe quick start guide

Paddleboard quick start guide

Nest roof tent quick start guide

Lookout roof tent quick start guide

Can I put my cookware in a dishwasher?

How do I look after my neoprene wetsuit?

How do I fix a hole in a dry bag or waterproof jacket?

How to rewax your waxed cotton bag

How do I repair holes in my wetsuit?

How do I create a frame bag template?

Equipment

Can I zip 2 sleeping bags together?

Camping

ALPKIT PRODUCTS

How do I create a Members Rewards account?

What are Member Rewards?

How do I unsubscribe from direct mail

How do I unsubscribe from email?

When will I receive my Member Rewards Dividend Codes?

How do I use my Members Rewards?

How are the value of my  Dividend Codes calculated?

Can I share my Dividend Codes?

I cannot create a Member Rewards Account

Can I use my Members Rewards Account across all Alpkit sites?

How do I change my account email address?

MEMBER REWARDS

Where can I find Alpkit stores?

Can I redeem my Gift Vouchers in stores?

How can I sign up for an Alpkit or Sonder event?

Can I hire a bouldering pad?

Christmas opening hours

Where is the Big Shakeout?

Can I bring my pets to the Big Shakeout?

Can I book on an AKF School of Adventure activity without a weekend pass?

Will School of Adventure activities still go on if the weather is bad?

When will I receive my Big Shakeout tickets?

Are there facilities for disabled guests at the Big Shakeout?

Is there any parking, and what if I am in a camper van?

Can I make a Big Shakeout group booking?

What about under 18s?

What is the Big Shakeout cancellation policy?

Can I get a Big Shakeout day ticket?

What time can I arrive/what time should I leave?

Big Shakeout

STORES & EVENTS

How can I donate my kit to Continuum?

How to apply to the Alpkit Foundation?

Where will my donated kit end up?

FOUNDATION & CONTINUUM

Sponsorship and Marketing

PARTNERSHIPS