Mastering The Trails:The Ultimate Guide to What is 29er Mountain Bikes?

By reading our detailed explanation, discover the answer to “What is 29er mountain bikes?”.

Learn how the 29-inch wheels on this powerful off-road vehicle improve the ride quality and enable it to roll over obstacles with ease.

Find out everything a rider needs to know about 29er mountain bikes so they can decide if this bike style suits their active lifestyle.

A 29er mountain bike is a type of mountain bike that uses 29-inch wheels. These bikes are known for their ability to roll over obstacles more easily than bikes with smaller wheels. Mountain bike wheels, in general, come in different sizes, including 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch. 

The 29-inch wheel size is popular because it offers a good balance of speed and stability on rough terrain. A 29er bike is a mountain bike with 29-inch wheels, ideal for riding on trails and other uneven surfaces. Hardtail bikes, which have a suspension fork on the front wheel but no suspension on the rear wheel, are a popular type of mountain bike that often come in 29er wheel sizes.

For example, the Foxter Evans 27.5/29er mountain bike is a popular model that comes in both wheel sizes. When choosing a wheel size, it’s essential to consider your riding style and the terrain you will be riding on. 27.5-inch wheels are a popular alternative to 29-inch wheels, as they offer more manoeuvrability and are generally lighter. 

Ultimately, the best wheel size for you will depend on your preferences and the riding you plan to do. When looking for a 29er bike, consider factors such as the frame size, gear ratio, and whether it is foldable, among other features.

Understanding 29er Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes with 29-inch wheels, as opposed to the more standard 26-inch wheels, are known as “29ers.” More traction, easier rolling over rugged terrain, and more stable high-speed travel are some benefits of using larger wheels.

Anyone interested in taking up mountain biking would do well to familiarise themselves with these bikes. The frame of a 29er bike is crucial, as it is with any other style of bike. A reasonable frame will be both lightweight and durable, and it should also have suspension to dampen the effects of bumps.

It has wider tires than a standard mountain bike, improving traction and making it easier to navigate obstacles. These larger wheels also call for a shift in your attitude to handling and riding, as they might be trickier to steer in confined situations. 

Depending on your height and preferred riding style, you should select the appropriate 29er bike size, and regular maintenance will keep your bike in top shape. Cyclists seeking a more steady and comfortable ride over challenging terrain should consider purchasing it.

Definition of a 29er mountain bike

It is a type of mountain bike with larger wheels that measure 29 inches in diameter. Compared to traditional mountain bikes with 26-inch wheels, 29er bikes provide a smoother ride over rough terrain and better traction on loose or slippery surfaces.

The larger wheel size also offers improved stability at high speeds and better efficiency for climbing and rolling over obstacles. 29er bikes first gained popularity in the early 2000s, and since then, many major bike manufacturers have developed their models of 29ers for various riding styles and terrain types. 

Overall, it is a versatile and reliable bike for riders of different skill levels and interests in mountain biking.

History of 29er Bikes

Mountain bikes with 29-inch wheels are known as 29ers. In this case, “29 in” refers to the diameter of the tires and wheels used on these bicycles. 29er bikes, as described on bikelockwiki, were first considered in the 1980s when a few manufacturers began experimenting with larger wheels. 

Yet, 29er bikes became widely used by mountain bikers in the early 2000s. Thanks to their larger wheel size, more rolling momentum, more traction, and a more comfortable ride on rocky terrain, these are just a few benefits that 29ers offer. 

Several versions catering to different riding preferences, such as cross-country, trail, and downhill racing, have emerged as 29er bikes have evolved. With the popularity of 29er bikes in recent years, many major bike brands now offer them. 

The development of 29er bikes exemplifies the mountain biking community’s commitment to progress and change.

Development of 29er mountain bikes

Its development began with the launch of the first 29-inch wheeled mountain bike in the early 2000s. Despite initial skepticism, the advantages of the larger wheel size, including enhanced grip, rolling efficiency, and a smoother ride over uneven terrain, were evident to both riders and manufacturers. 

As their popularity expanded, manufacturers spent on developing new technologies and components, including suspension systems and frame geometries tailored for these bikes. 

It is a popular option for riders of all skill levels, with multiple manufacturers offering a vast selection of models. The evolution and improvement of 29er mountain bikes will continue as technology progresses.

Advancements in 29er technology

29er mountain bikes are:

• A type of mountain bike with larger wheels measuring 29 inches in diameter.
• Providing improved traction.
• Rolling efficiency.
• A smoother ride over rough terrain. 

Initially met with skepticism, the popularity of 29ers grew among riders and manufacturers, leading to new technologies and components designed specifically for these bikes. Suspension systems and frame geometries were optimized to take advantage of the increased stability and control offered by the larger wheels. 

Today, it is trendy among riders of all levels, with various models available from different manufacturers. Advancements in technology are expected to continue to improve the development of 29er mountain bikes.

What’s A 29er Bike Used For?

A 29er bike is a type of mountain bike with larger wheels measuring 29 inches in diameter that provides better traction, smoother ride, and improved rolling efficiency over rough terrain. 

Despite initial skepticism, the benefits of 29er bikes became apparent to riders and manufacturers alike, leading to the development of optimized suspension systems and frame geometries that leverage the increased stability and control offered by the bigger wheels.

29er bikes are highly versatile and popular among professional mountain bike riders, although amateur cyclists and trail newbies can also benefit from their improved stability and traction. As technology advances, the development of 29er bikes is expected to evolve further.

Technical climbs

One advantage of 29-inch wheels is that they require less momentum to roll over obstacles, making them useful for technical climbs with low speed and momentum. Setting up for success and maintaining momentum are essential skills for technical climbs, as the speed before starting the climb can affect the outcome of the climb. 

Practicing technical climbing can boost the flow of your ride and make you a complete rider. To achieve this, one should focus on dialing in their technical climbing skills and reducing stalling when the trail pitches upwards.

Singletracks has listed some of the best mountain biking climbs, including Lewis Peak, Northern Skyline Trail, North Ogden Divide, and others, to help one practice and improve their technical climbing skills.

Some tips on climbing technical terrain on a mountain bike include starting from a seated position and in a big gear, leaning back slightly to pull the wheel into the air and onto the log when approaching an obstacle, and keeping the elbows bent while climbing.

Finally, for those who prefer watching videos, Joy of Bike with Alex Bogusky has a YouTube video demonstrating technical climbs on a mountain bike and sharing tips on how to master them.

Traction on loose terrain can be improved by using wider tires with a more aggressive tread pattern that can dig into loose soil and provide more grip.

Lowering the tire pressure can also increase the tire’s surface area in contact with the ground, improving traction on loose terrain. Pedaling techniques can also impact traction on loose terrain. A smooth and consistent pedaling motion can help maintain traction and avoid slipping.

Stability on descents:

A critical factor for stability on descents is body position. The rider should shift their weight backward and lower their center of gravity to improve stability.

Another critical factor is the braking technique. Applying the brakes too suddenly or too hard can cause the bike to skid and lose stability, so it’s essential to use the brakes in a controlled and gradual manner.

Suspension setup can also impact stability on descents. A well-tuned suspension can help absorb bumps and maintain control on rough terrain.

Speed and efficiency:

One key to speed and efficiency is maintaining momentum. Avoiding sudden stops and maintaining a consistent pedaling rhythm can help maintain speed on the trail.

Another important factor is body position. Leaning forward and keeping the elbows bent can help reduce wind resistance and improve pedaling efficiency.

A well-tuned bike can also contribute to speed and efficiency. Regular maintenance and proper bike setup, including tire pressure, suspension, and drivetrain adjustments, can all help improve speed and efficiency on the trail.

Benefits Of 29 Inch Mountain Bike

It has several advantages over other wheel sizes. These include increased trail traction, improved rollover ability, enhanced stability and control, and reduced chance of hitting rocks. However, 29-inch wheels may take longer to accelerate, giving the bike an unresponsive feel. Riders who desire a snappy, responsive feel may prefer 27.5-inch wheels.

Overall, a 29-inch mountain bike provides improved performance, handling, and comfort on various terrains, making it an excellent choice for off-road riding.

Improved rollover ability: The larger wheel size of a 29-inch mountain bike allows it to roll over obstacles more quickly compared to smaller wheel sizes. You can maintain momentum and speed on rough terrain without getting bogged down by rocks, roots, or other obstacles.

Better traction and stability: A 29-inch mountain bike has a larger contact patch with the ground, which translates to better traction and stability. It means you can maintain control over your bike even on loose or slippery terrain, reducing the risk of accidents and improving your overall confidence on the trail.

Improved efficiency and speed: Due to the larger wheel size, a 29-inch mountain bike can cover more ground with each pedal stroke, which means you can maintain higher speeds with less effort. It can be particularly beneficial on long, flat sections of trail or during extended climbs, allowing you to conserve energy and ride further.

Comparison of 29er and 27.5″ MTB

When it comes to mountain biking, wheel size is an important consideration. The two most popular wheel sizes are the 29er and the 27.5-inch wheel. According to Hobby Biker, the 29-inch mountain bike offers several advantages over other wheel sizes.

The larger wheels allow less effort to roll over obstacles and increase traction on trails, making it great for off-road riding. The higher attack angle of the wheels helps them to roll over obstacles with less impact, reducing fatigue and smoothing out the trail.

Riders report feeling enhanced stability and control, decreasing the sketchiness of the riding experience. Additionally, the larger wheels offer more clearance and a reduced chance of hitting rocks since the rider is further away from the ground. It is also great for taller people who need help finding the right fit.

However, 29er wheels may take longer to accelerate, giving the bike an unresponsive feel. Therefore, riders who desire a snappy, responsive feel may prefer 27.5-inch wheels.

On the other hand, the 27.5-inch wheel is an excellent compromise between agility and speed, according to Niner Bikes. Because of its smaller diameter, it is easier for riders to change direction, and it provides a more excellent rollover and stability while retaining the agility of smaller 26-inch wheels, according to BikesOnline.

Additionally, 27.5-inch wheels are lighter than 29in wheels, which makes them a better choice for experienced downhill riders and smaller riders, according to Bike Exchange. The faster acceleration is often cited as one of the most significant benefits of a 27.5-wheel compared to a 29-wheel.

Wheels that accelerate faster give a bike the snappy, responsive feel that many riders desire. However, the smaller wheel size may have some limitations in its ability to roll over obstacles and maintain traction on the trail, making it less suitable for off-road riding in certain terrains.

The choice between a 29er and a 27.5-inch mountain bike depends on the rider’s preference and the bike’s intended use. The 29-inch wheel offers improved performance, handling, and comfort on various terrains, making it an excellent choice for off-road riding.

However, the slower acceleration and unresponsiveness may make it less suitable for riders who desire a snappy, responsive feel. The 27.5-inch wheel, on the other hand, offers better agility, faster acceleration, and lighter weight, making it an excellent choice for experienced downhill and smaller riders.

However, its smaller size may have limitations in rolling over obstacles and maintaining traction on the trail. Ultimately, riders should consider their riding style, terrain, and personal preference before choosing between a 29er and a 27.5-inch mountain bike.

Which Competitions/Events can 29er Bikes Be Used In?

One of the most significant advantages of 29er mountain bikes is their versatility. They are designed to handle various terrain and riding styles, making them suitable for different events and competitions. Here are some of the events in which 29er bikes can be used:

Cross-country races

Cross-country (XC) racing is a popular mountain bike discipline that involves covering a set distance as quickly as possible. It usually involves a mix of terrain, including technical climbs and descents, and is typically held on a looped course. 29er bikes are well-suited for cross-country racing due to their lightweight, efficient design and excellent traction on loose terrain. They can help riders maintain speed and momentum, making them ideal for long races requiring endurance and speed.

Enduro races

Enduro racing is a type of mountain bike racing that combines aspects of cross-country racing and downhill racing. It usually involves several timed downhill stages and untimed climbs, with the winner being the rider with the fastest combined time.

29er bikes are an excellent choice for enduro racing due to their stability on descents and efficient pedaling. They are also suitable for the technical terrain often encountered in enduro races.

Trail riding

Trail riding is popular among mountain bikers, and 29er bikes are ideal for this type of riding. They are designed to handle various types of terrain, including technical climbs and descents, making them well-suited for trail riding.

Their large wheels and excellent traction provide a stable and smooth ride that can help riders tackle challenging terrain easily.

Downhill racing

It is an adrenaline-fueled discipline that involves racing down steep, technical descents as quickly as possible. While 29er bikes are not typically used in it, they can still be an excellent choice for riders who want a more versatile bike than a traditional downhill bike. With their large wheels and durable design, 29er bikes can provide a smooth ride down technical descents, making them suitable for riders who want to tackle various terrain.

Who Can Ride a 29er?

29er bikes have frame sizes that can accommodate riders of any height. While they are usually an excellent fit for taller riders, they have been designed to provide a natural feel on the bike, especially for larger riders. 

Riders report that it gives a feeling of enhanced stability and control, decreasing the sketchiness of the riding experience, which means fewer on-trail panic attacks and more confidence and comfort. 

As for the minimum recommended rider height for a 29er, it is best to size a frame using your inseam and arm length to refine the top tube length. Typically, 29-inch mountain bikes can accommodate rider heights of 58 to 64; even shorter riders can also try it. 

For example, the 27.8-inch stand-over height on the Ibis Ripmo AF, a 29er with 147 millimeters of rear travel and 160 millimeters up front, lets five-foot riders get rowdy. In short, most of us can ride a 29-inch mountain bike without worrying about our height.

Height Requirements for Riding a 29er

The minimum recommended rider height for a 29er is typically 58 to 64 inches. However, 29er bikes have frame sizes that accommodate riders of any height. It is important to size a frame using your inseam and arm length to refine the top tube length rather than worrying about your height. 

Riders as short as five feet can ride a 29er with a lower stand-over height, such as the Ibis Ripmo AF, which has a 27.8-inch stand-over height and provides enhanced stability and control for all riders. Therefore, there is no hard and fast rule for the height requirement of 29er bikes, and they can be ridden by anyone who feels comfortable.

Women and 29er Mountain Bikes

29er mountain bikes have frame sizes that accommodate riders of any height, including women. As mentioned earlier, the adjustments to 29er bike frames make for a natural feel, especially for larger riders.

Women can also benefit from the enhanced stability and control of a 29er, decreasing the sketchiness of the riding experience and providing more confidence and comfort. There is no specific height requirement for women to ride a 29er bike, and they can choose a frame size that fits their inseam and arm length. Additionally, some 29er bikes are specifically designed for women with narrower handles.

What to Wear When Riding a 29er Bike

Regarding what to wear when riding a 29er bike, there are a few clothing and protective gear recommendations to keep in mind. Here are some suggestions.

Clothing Recommendations:

• Lycra clothing: According to one source, Lycra clothing is much more comfortable to wear on longer rides than the baggy kit. For cross-country mountain bikers, a Lycra jersey with rear pockets can be ideal for stowing spare tubes, tools, and snacks.
• Shorts: A pair of shorts, preferably with a short liner, can also be a good choice for comfort and freedom of movement.
• Insulating layers: In cold weather, adding insulating layers is essential to extend your riding season earlier into spring and fall.
• Shoe covers: For wet or rainy rides, toe covers or shoes can keep your feet warmer and drier.

Protective Gear Recommendations:

• Mountain bike gloves: Gloves can provide extra grip and protect your hands from scrapes and bruises.
• Helmet: A helmet is a must for any bike ride, and it’s essential to ensure it fits well and is appropriately adjusted.
• Downhill bike shoes: shoes with flat or clipless pedals can provide extra protection and grip on the pedals.
• Rain/wind protection: Rain/wind protection can be a wise addition to your pack year-round.

Remember, your clothing and protective gear choices will depend on several factors, including the weather, the terrain you’ll be riding on, and your personal preferences. Finding what works best for you and prioritizing safety when choosing your gear is essential.

29er Bike FAQs

What do 29 inches mountain bike mean?

A 29er mountain bike is a type of bike with 29-inch wheels, more significant than the standard 26-inch wheels found on most traditional mountain bikes. The wheels are more comprehensive and thicker, allowing excellent stability and better traction on rough terrain.

What is the weight limit for a 29-inch bike?

There is no specific weight limit for 29er mountain bikes, as it depends on the bike’s frame, materials, and intended use. However, some manufacturers may provide weight limits for their specific models. It is essential to check with the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult a bike expert to ensure the safe and comfortable use of the bike.

Are 29ers faster for climbing?

Yes, 29er mountain bikes tend to climb faster than their smaller counterparts because bigger wheels travel more with each paddle, making them more responsive for uphill rides. In addition, the larger wheels require less effort to keep their momentum going, making them more efficient for longer rides.

What are the benefits of a 29er for climbing?

The larger wheels of a 29er mountain bike provide excellent traction, stability, and momentum for climbing hills and navigating rough terrain. The longer wheelbase and back end also help distribute the rider’s weight more evenly, allowing for better control and balance on steep inclines. 

In addition, the larger wheels require less effort to maintain speed, reducing fatigue and improving endurance. Finally, the lower tire pressure and wider tires allow for more grip and traction, making it easier to maintain traction on loose or slippery surfaces.

Can a Woman Ride on a 29-Inch Bike?

Yes, a woman can ride a 29-inch bike. There are no rigid rules about what size bike a woman should ride, and many factors such as height, weight, and riding style can affect the best size. However, women tend to be more comfortable on smaller bikes with shorter top tubes.

Important information:

• There are no strict rules about the size of the bike a woman should ride.
• Women may feel more comfortable on smaller bikes with shorter top tubes.
• Height, weight, and riding style are important factors to consider when choosing a bike size.

What CO2 Canister Size Fits a 29er?

CO2 canister sizes used to suffice for road tires and 26-inch tires, but as the size of tires grew more prominent, so did the size of the CO2 canisters. For mountain bike tires, a 25-gram CO2 canister is recommended for a 29er or larger tire size.

A 16-gram CO2 cartridge may not be enough to inflate a 29-inch mountain bike tire, as the pressure in a 29-inch tire is about 10% lower than a 26-inch tire, so a 36 psi pressure is recommended for a 29-inch tire.

Important information:

• A 25-gram CO2 canister is recommended for a 29er or larger tire size.
• A 16-gram CO2 cartridge may not be enough to inflate a 29-inch mountain bike tire.
• The pressure in a 29-inch tire is about 10% lower than in a 26-inch tire, so a 36 psi pressure is recommended for a 29-inch tire.

Does a 29er Bike Require Anything to Keep Functioning?

Like any bike, a 29er bike requires regular maintenance and upkeep to function properly. Below are some common areas that need attention:

• Tires: Ensure the tire pressure is correct and the tires are in good condition. Check for any cuts, punctures, or excessive wear on the tires.
• Suspension: If the 29er bike has suspension, it should be checked regularly for proper function and wear. The suspension should be serviced as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Drivetrain: Keep the drivetrain clean and lubricated. Check the chain, cassette, and chainrings for wear, and replace them as necessary.
• Brakes: Check the brake pads for wear and replace them when they become too thin. Adjust the brakes as needed to ensure proper function.
• Frame: Inspect the frame for any cracks or damage. A damaged frame can compromise the bike’s safety and should be repaired or replaced.

Important information:

• Regular maintenance and upkeep are necessary to keep a 29er bike functioning correctly.
• Tires, suspension, drivetrain, brakes, and frame are common areas that require attention.
• Check tire pressure, suspension function, and wear; keep the drivetrain clean and lubricated; inspect the brakes for wear; and check the frame for damage.