[AdamBike]

From discussions and accounts I've observed, the consensus seems to be that 29" in "normal" widths is, or is becoming, the industry standard now overall. There are still applications and arguments for 27.5 and plus sizes (and maybe 26 it seems), and companies are still obviously producing them. But the majority is going the way of 29 as far as I've understood.

If true, I'm curious, what do you think might be the next "new" thing in wheel sizes. There's been/is fat, plus (in both wheel sizes), 26, mullet versions... so what could be the next unique, feasible, or gimmicky option for wheel sizes that might catch on and have a place or purpose?

I'd like to see more modernized 26 options (including plus widths), and would be curious if it's even doable to go bigger than 29+? Thoughts?

 

[Lenny7]

27.6 and people will swear it's the "sweet spot."

 

[pushinpixels]

I think 29+ will make a resurgence in the world of bikepacking.
36'er electric bikes or maybe the 32" from Black Sheep.

 

[BadgerOne]

29+ never really left bikepacking, it's just that there aren't very many good tire options right now and most think they can still get a good compromise on 2.6. 32s or 36s would be rollover kings but I wouldn't want to swing those around switchbacks.

 

[Cary]

I could see 32” as an alternative for tall riders, but weight goes up fast as diameter increases, so I wouldn’t ever see it as a mainstream choice. 36” will always be a niche product. The only bike I have seen where it looked like there was no toe overlap or other compromises was a custom frame for a 6’9” rider.

 

[TippyD]

Dual 20" front independent wheels like they have on scooters.

 

[EABiker]

Penny Farthings.

 

[DachshundBiker]

A compromise between 29" and 27.5". 28.25"

 

[ol-crank]

I like 29 front and 27.5 rear, it makes sense and might be the max efficiency. I have used this off and on for years and like that the front rolls better and the back is still efficient with the chainring and cassette choices there is no downside. This is providing you understand the geometry changes if any.

 

[ol-crank]

here's a link to KTM e-bike with that wheel size MACINA KAPOHO PRO - KTM Bikes

 

[mikesee]

29+ never really left bikepacking, it's just that there aren't very many good tire options right now

Just in my little shop I have DHF, DHR, XR4, SE4, Ranger, Dirt Wizard, Knard, Cannoli, Rekon, and Coronado in stock right now.

And XR2's are due back in any day.

While I wouldn't argue if there were more, how many options do you really need?

 

[noapathy]

While I wouldn't argue if there were more, how many options do you really need?

At least one more than what's currently available. For reasons. 🎃

 

[Lenny7]

A compromise between 29" and 27.5". 28.25"

The math checks out.

 

[GKelley]

29's are nice, but I really hope 27.5 plus isn't going away. I love that tire size for hardtails.

 

[REZEN]

I think a 27.5/29 oval wheel will be the future. Then it's a true mullet front and back!

 

[steadite]

Maybe it’s already underway, but I think “normal” 29er width will be more like 2.5/2.6” in the next few years.

Further, I expect some kind of foam liner molded into the tire to minimize rim strikes at lower pressure. Yes, I’m aware all this is available now, but I foresee the tire mfrs integrating the liner into the tire to make it a simpler system to install.

 

[vikb]

29+ never really left bikepacking, it's just that there aren't very many good tire options right now and most think they can still get a good compromise on 2.6. 32s or 36s would be rollover kings but I wouldn't want to swing those around switchbacks.

Yup it never left. I'd argue that there are still decent tires options available in 29+ especially for bikepacking.

Between the Surly Knard, Surly Dirt Wizard and Bonty XR2 I could ride any trail I ever need to most happily on a bikepacking bike and I could cruise gravel/paved roads as well. And there are additional 29+ tires out there still if you need more flavours.

 

[vikb]

Maybe it’s already underway, but I think “normal” 29er width will be more like 2.5/2.6” in the next few years.

I'd say that ^^ has already happened. Just about every 29er I look at is rated for a 2.6" tire and completes are coming with 2.5" or 2.6" tires. At least if we are talking "Maxxis" sizing.

BTW - you sig is 100% 👌👌👌

 

[PhillipJ]

Dual 20" front independent wheels like they have on scooters.

Someone get one of these to Sam Pilgrim ASAP.

 

[TimTucker]

Having liked 29x3.25", I'm eager to see something with bigger diameter without having to give up width (36" just has 36x2.25" and there aren't any good 32" mtb tires)