29" MTB tires are a relatively new to the MTB world. They are used on mountain bikes designed around 700c (ISO 622) wheels, the same size used by most road bikes. The 29" designation is not so much a measurement as a shorthand estimate, a 29" rim is significantly bigger than a standard 26" MTB wheel.
If 29" sounds large for a MTB tire, it is. 29er bikes are prized by aggressive cross-country riders because they roll over everything, through deep ruts, thick mud, even shallow streams. While MTB racers have given 29er bikes a mixed reaction, adventurous recreational riders love them. While a couple years ago 29" bikes were seen as an experiment, they now are here to stay.
Because 29er bikes have been best received by aggressive riders, the treads on 29er tires tend to be fairly aggressive. They have large knobs designed to keep traction in the most demanding conditions. The lowest profile 29er tires have what most MTB riders would refer to as medium-profile treads.
Because 29er tires use the 700c size, 29er riders can also use 700c touring tires for street use. While 29er rims may be a bit too wide for use with most road bikes, they will work great on cyclocross bikes, which may streamline gear selection for the dirt-lovers amongst us. The primary drawback of 29er tires is their weight, it's a lot of rubber. It's also important to remember that you won't be able to borrow a tube from your 26" riding buddies, be prepared.
More questions about 29" MTB tires? Contact us at (800)479-9350 or sales@bicycletires.com.
