29ers

[Naia]

I have been asking around about 29" wheels. The guys have been helpful, but know one seems to know personally of any females out there riding big wheels and how they like them. Any input?

[Cyclenaut]

This sounds like a question you should ask Thanita directly. I don't know if she's product tested a 29'er or not.

From the people I've talked to, there are some advantages to the 29er, but not in all riding conditions.

[thanita]

I actually have not yet tested a 29er mtn. bike. At one time, I did a lot of research 'cause I wanted to check one out (after testing the opposite theory, the 24" wheeled Kind Cycle). I ran into a lot of "there's no reason for you to ride a 29er" and "we can't make one small enough without toe overlap/etc. - what's the point?" That said, I was a saddened . . . but, there is one person out there who advocates 29er's for everyone, including the vertically conservative. Heh.
That's Willets cycles, and I'm going to try to get my paws on one after Interbike.

That said, if you're a taller woman, you're not going to have any of these problems; lots of people who have ridden 29ers love 'em. For certain situations. On the other hand, I've not yet spoken with a woman who's ridden them, although I do know Wes' wife is my height and she sports the big wheels.

So . . . in answer to the question, never rode one. But, I plan on it and will submit the report in full for all those interested.
T

[hitekrdnk]

Hey ladies, Mrs. Rdnk loves her 29"er and has for the last 4 years. She is 5'6" and growing (thanks to some serious Iyengar yoga). Seen females ripping it up down in the 5'1" range, but these have all been on custom bikes. The only production bike I know of that is being used by a female is the Airborne 16" B-29 and she is around 5'4", loves it. Not talked to anyone that has ridden the GF small......

The concept is really no different for male or female, you just have to ride to decide. The smaller frames are not all that prolific so that can be a problem, but as time goes on there should be an opportunity to get a leg over one. Especially at the 24hr races.