The Debate Rages: What is better? 26″ or 27.5″ (650B) Mountain Bike Wheels

Banshee Spitfire test sled with 26" and 27.5" wheels.
Banshee Spitfire test sled with 26″ and 27.5″ wheels.

The debate is still raging about the benefits of 27.5″ wheels (aka 650B) over 26″ or 29″. The forum banter and trail head smack talk is usually from riders without that much experience riding the different sizes. Bike Magazine has tried to make this a bit more scientific by using the same bike, the same trail, and same type of fork with two sets of ENVE wheels (one pair 26″ and the other 27.5″). The results are interesting. Even though I’m a shorter guy I think I’m less and less inclined to go after 650B. The differences really don’t seem to be enough to warrant the tweener size.

Check out what they have to say about their impressions of the size difference and their entertaining video below.

shopping iconIf you’re shopping for some new 26″ or 27.5″ (650B) wheels online, the best place to look first is Jenson USA or Competitive Cyclist. They have the best prices and selection.

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