Choosing Your Platform
Beyond the material of your rims, the diameter of your wheel is the most fundamental choice you'll make. It dictates how your bike interacts with the trail, influencing everything from rollover speed and traction to cornering agility. Today's mountain biking world is dominated by two primary sizes, with a third "mixed-wheel" option gaining massive popularity. Let's break them down.
The 29er: The Gold Standard for Speed
Once considered a niche category, the 29-inch wheel has become the go-to standard for a huge range of disciplines, from cross-country racing to the Enduro World Series. Their primary advantage lies in their ability to maintain momentum and smooth out rough terrain.
- Rollover & Momentum: A larger wheel has a shallower angle of attack, allowing it to roll over rocks, roots, and trail chatter more easily than a smaller wheel. Once up to speed, they are harder to slow down.
- Traction: The larger circumference creates a longer tire contact patch, providing superior grip in corners and on technical climbs.
Who is it for? Riders who prioritize outright speed, stability, and rollover performance. It's the dominant choice for XC, Trail, and Enduro riding. Explore our full collection of 29 Inch Rims to see the options.
The 27.5" (650b): The Champion of Agility
The 27.5-inch wheel (also known as 650b) is the choice for riders who want a more playful and nimble feel. What it gives up in outright rollover, it makes up for in quickness and fun.
- Agility & Handling: A smaller wheel is quicker to accelerate and easier to change direction. This translates to a bike that feels "poppy," loves to jump, and can be flicked into tight corners with less effort.
- Fit & Clearance: For shorter riders, 27.5" wheels can provide a better overall bike fit. They also offer more clearance between the rear tire and the rider on very steep descents.
Who is it for? Park riders, freeriders, and anyone who values a playful, agile bike over all-out speed. It's also a great choice for shorter riders. See our curated collection of 27.5 Inch Rims.
The Mullet (MX): The Best of Both Worlds
Why choose one when you can have both? A mullet (or MX) setup uses a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel, aiming to combine the best attributes of each.
- The Concept: The big 29" front wheel provides the grip, stability, and rollover confidence you need to charge into rough terrain, while the smaller 27.5" rear wheel keeps the bike nimble, easy to corner, and quick to accelerate.
Who is it for? This has become the go-to setup for many enduro and gravity racers. It's for the rider who wants the confidence of a 29er up front but the playful, party-in-the-back feel of a 27.5".
Ready to Choose Your Build?
Understanding how each wheel size affects your ride is the first step to creating the perfect wheelset. Now that you know the fundamentals, it's time to dive into the components.
Explore our dedicated landing page to Shop Our Rims by size, material, or brand. When you're ready to create your perfect build from the ground up, head over to our interactive Custom Wheel Builder.