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650B vs 700c wheelset

by Martin 12 Dec 2024
650B vs 700c wheelset


Particularly in relation to dirt bikes and road cycles, this article will go over two typical wheel sizes: 650B and 700C wheelsets. Both sizes fit for various riding purposes since they have advantages and drawbacks. We will contrast these two wheel sizes from several perspectives to assist you in making a more educated choice.

700C Wheelset: The Classic Choice for Road Bikes

If you enjoy road riding, the 700C wheelset is most likely already familiar. Though the name might imply a 700mm diameter, the exact measurement is really 622mm. This speaks not of the wheel's whole outer diameter but rather of the rim bed's diameter. For road bikes, the 700C wheelset presents a number of benefits; the most clear one is its low rolling resistance. Larger wheels are great for endurance cycling since they let them preserve speed more readily, particularly over long distances, by better maintaining inertia.

The 700C wheelset's capacity to effectively negotiate uneven surfaces—especially in relation to obstacles—also has advantages. The wheel rolls over minor hills or cracks more smoothly with a wider diameter, therefore lowering the possibility of becoming caught or bouncing. Mountain bikes also have 700C wheelsets, which have the 29-inch size acclaimed for its capacity to roll over hurdles and offer improved stability.

The 700C wheelset does not, however, have all the advantages. Although it shines in speed and stability, its performance on gravel roads or uneven ground could be less outstanding. It lacks as many options in larger tires as 650B wheels, which would be good for more grip and more comfort.  

650B Wheelset: The Rising Star for Gravel Bikes

With an actual rim bed width of 584mm and a smaller diameter of roughly 650mm, 650B wheels feature Particularly in off-road and gravel terrain, 650B wheelsets provide clear benefits despite their lower size. Usually on uneven surfaces, 650B wheelsets are matched with bigger tires, which offer better comfort and more traction.

Though they sacrifice some speed, the smaller wheels shine in acceleration, which facilitates faster beginnings. 650B wheelsets provide more mobility in difficult terrain, particularly in cases when regular route adjustments are required. Higher air pressure tolerance made possible by the wider tires is also quite beneficial on gravel or muddy paths.

Though their acceleration and grip are remarkable, 650B wheelsets have certain drawbacks. Their lower diameter causes them to be less effective at preserving high speeds on level ground than 700C wheelsets. Furthermore, especially on uneven ground, the smaller wheels might not be as smooth as 700C wheels, which would help to tackle significant hurdles.

650B Wheelset vs. 700C Wheelset: Which One Is Right for You?

Regarding selecting between these two wheel diameters, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It relies just on your main riding requirements. The 700C wheelset is clearly the best choice if you generally ride on level roads and give speed top priority. Long-distance rides would be ideal because their effective rolling performance and longer inertia let you keep faster speeds.

The 650B wheelset might be a better choice for you, though, if you bike more often on dirt or off-road surfaces. Its acceleration, improved grip, and more comfort help it to be more suited to difficult terrain. Moreover, compared to 700C, the bigger tire volume of 650B provides better comfort and traction.

Geometric Impact of Wheel Size

Wheel size changes should be taken into account with relation to bike geometry. Smaller wheels could affect the bottom bracket height, thus influencing the stability of your bike. Different wheel sizes also may affect the wheelbase—that is, the distance between the front and back axles. Shorter wheelbases generally make bikes more nimble; longer wheelbases often make bikes more stable.

Above all, varying the wheel size can change the "trail" of the front fork, therefore influencing the steering geometry. Smaller wheels cut the steering trail, which increases bike responsiveness but could also lessen stability. For riders who give stability top priority, however, bigger 700C wheelsets provide more consistent steering.

Which Wheelset Is Right for You?

Given both wheelsets have benefits and drawbacks, it's difficult to say which one is preferable if you're curious. The 700C wheelset is obviously the best option if your main concentration is road riding and you wish to give speed and efficiency top priority on level ground. Long rides would be perfect for it since it shines in preserving stability and speed.

The 650B wheelset is definitely a better fit, though, if your journeys feature more off-road terrain or you enjoy traversing gravel paths and roughest terrain. Its improved grip, acceleration power, and bigger tires help it to be more adaptable and fun to ride in challenging surroundings.

Both 650B and 700C wheelsets have advantages at last. The decision finally relies on your riding requirements. The 650B wheelset will provide you additional cycling pleasure if you intend more off-road exploits. The 700C wheelset is the superior option, though, if your main priorities are road performance.

Here are some recommended readings:

  1. 11 High-Performance Carbon Fiber Wheelsets Go Head to Head - Part 1
  2. How to Choose the Right Cycling Jersey Size
  3. The 13 Most Popular Clincher and Tubeless Tires
  4. Custom Bicycle Frames: A Journey to Your Perfect Ride
  5. Professional Review: Which Road Bike Tire Is the Fastest? - Part 3

 

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