
29er MTBs
Ankle-deep in mud, climbing up mountains, or whizzing along bumpy trails: 29-inch wheels are the first choice for mountain bikes (MTB). Why? They’re stable, deliver excellent speed and provide great traction on uneven terrain.
29-inch MTB are the premium choice
When the mountain bike wave swept from the USA to Europe, bikers rolled on 26-inch wheels. Today's trend towards bikes with 29-inch wheels has good reasons.
- The large tyre diameter smooths the bumps. 29-inch wheels absorb gravel and roots much easier than those with a smaller diameter. The lower rolling resistance (compared to 27.5 inches) delivers smoother handling and speed.
- A large surface area improves traction. The more tyre to grip the ground, the better. 29-inch MTBs lean into corners with stability and perform brilliantly on slippery surfaces.
- Carbon keeps everything agile Compared to 27.5-inch mountain bikes, the reach is often longer, the stem shorter and the steering angle steeper. As a result, you’ll be able to sit comfortably on your bike while slaying the trails.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional - you will benefit from the advantages of modern 29-inch mountain bikes regardless of your performance level.
Which is better: 29-inch, 27.5-inch or Mullet mix?
Not sure which one to go for? The only thing that determines the frame size are your measurements – with one exception! If choosing frame sizes XS and S, it can often be better to stick with 27.5-inch wheels. This is because smaller mountain bikers get quite close to a 29-inch rear wheel when shifting weight on steep trails. That’s why many of our smaller MTB frames are equipped with 27.5-inch wheels.
The bottom bracket height and wheelbase don’t really differ between the 27.5 and 29-inch wheel variants. However, the preferred routes and your riding style decide the next part:
- 29-inch wheels ensure smooth delivery, safety and speed on straight stretches
- 27.5-inch ensure manoeuvrability, acceleration and resistance on winding, jagged trails and jumps
- The mullet combo of 29 inches at the front and 27.5 inches on the rear combines the best of both worlds: smoothness, traction, and speed.
Want to know more about wheel size? Check out our guide to MTB wheel sizes article for further detail on your perfect sizing.
When are 29-inch wheels the right ones for me?
Firstly, the weight of the 29-inch wheels is slightly heavier thus slightly reducing acceleration. On the plus side, you hold the pace a lot easier than with 27.5-inch wheels.
- The Neuron and Spectral bikes are engineered for dynamic trail performance and epic downhill rides – and they both have 29-inch wheel options.
- The more travel, the more you can push yourself out of your comfort zone: 29-inch full-suspension mountain bikes give unlimited grip uphill and full traction downhill for maximum fun on your descents
- Canyon Spectral Mullet or Torque Mullet are built for those who love whizzing downhill. The Mullet combo playfully mixes lightness with speed.
Sold? Shop for 29-inch MTBs online!
Check out our Perfect Positioning System to find the right frame size for your brand new 29-inch buddy. All you need to do is measure and enter your height and inside leg length, and we’ll find you your ride. Whether on a 29-inch MTB or on 27.5-inch wheels, enjoy the experience of taking your rides up to the next level.