Groovy bikes

[rody]

Anther new wheel size. Why can't we leave things alone. 26'' rules

Tony,

I used to think that 26 was fine too, until I spent some time on a 29er :twisted:

Now, fully rigid 29 is all I ride. The speed, and more so, the control, the larger wheels afford are a breath of fresh air in the rocky/rooted area I frequent. Instead of my baby wheels getting caught up in the crevices and bumping harshly over the irregularities, the larger rubber floats over top without as much as a hic-up. The larger hoops and longer spokes also afford nice vertical compliance, eliminating the need for front suspension and it's weight. Besides, it's really fun to pass full squishy 26" bikes on down hills running fully rigid

To be fair, you'd really need to give the larger wheels a few months to adapt to the feel, but then there is no looking back.

cheers,

rody

 

[cchris2lou]

Never tried a 29 so cannot comment . but it does look like a better option for the tall people .

 

[tintin40]

Now, fully rigid 29 is all I ride.
cheers,

rody[/quote]

Great anther rigid rider. All is not lost Real mountain bikers keep it rigid :shock:

(only joking )

 

[messiah]

Never tried a 29 so cannot comment . but it does look like a better option for the tall people .

I've always thought the same; and not being over 6ft I've ignored them.

Having said that I'm sure if I try one I'll like it... it's a bike and I like bikes... but I really don't want or need another one.

 

[rody]

29ers...not just for long leggedy folks

actually,

folks down to about 5'8" can really benefit from the larger wheels, shorter than that a better frame fit would be built around the 650b's.

I can always come up with an excuse for another bike that satisfies me...now my wife, on the other hand :roll:

cheers,

rody

 

[DM]

Total craftmanship...

Here we go again

There are years worth of discussion re. the merits of 29ers over on MTBR. And now the rediscovered 650B, too.

Personally, the first time I sat on a 29er in my LBS it was a revelation: It felt like the first bike I'd tried that actually fitted me, rather than sitting high up on top of a kid's bike.

Soon after that I borrowed one locally for a weekend; It was so good that, when the owner later wanted to sell it (to buy yet anoither 29er) I snapped it up - despite being broke.

Rody,
agree with the previous post: Your NAHMBS "V.W. sealing wax & chestnut" crosser is a total show-stopper... if only it had a longer seat tube - the seat post on my 17.5 inch 29er is already maxed out. So a 16 would be no good.

Cheers,

DM.

 

[rody]

DM,

yep, that frame is sized for a 6' - 6'2" guy...actually 19" to the top of the seat post at the clamp. Typically used with a 400mm post to offer lot's of standover for the danglies.

Alas, that is why all my work is "custom" Each person is an individual and should be treated as one.

I really enjoyed spraying that VW scheme up, the subtle colors just really rock together.

I've currently got that one on the floor of the local shop, but am secretly hoping is does not generate much interest as I'd like to grab it for myself as a light trail / city commuter vehicle. The old Volvo is starting to groan so I may have to start wheeling around town again

cheers,

rody

 

[DM]

...actually 19" to the top of the seat post at the clamp.

:shock:
Noooo.... Must resist!

Actually, there are a few other geometry / tyre clearance changes I'd make. So the bank balance (such as it is) is safe for now. Memories of my old crosser's "focused" handling still cause me anxiety attacks

 

[orange71]

Personally, the first time I sat on a 29er in my LBS it was a revelation: It felt like the first bike I'd tried that actually fitted me, rather than sitting high up on top of a kid's bike.

Soon after that I borrowed one locally for a weekend; It was so good that, when the owner later wanted to sell it (to buy yet anoither 29er) I snapped it up - despite being broke

that's how I suspect I'll feel (6'3" with 35" inside leg) - though can't afford a 29er currently as there's not much of a second hand market (yet).

 

[DM]

that's how I suspect I'll feel (6'3" with 35" inside leg) - though can't afford a 29er currently as there's not much of a second hand market (yet).

You're only down the road from me.
PM me if you fancy borrowing my Fisher (34" inseam here).

The tyres and bars are currently on my "29er Humu cruiser project" (OH YES!) but I could have it up and running for you without much hassle.

DM