29er noob

[DirtyDog]

So I'm thinking about trying this 29er thing. First question: if you get one of these 69er things, don't you have to carry two tubes with you? Isn't that kind of silly?

[Mike B.]

What are these tube things of which you speak?



You can use 26" tubes in a 29" wheel, a little snug but works fine.

[DirtyDog]

What are these tube things of which you speak?



You can use 26" tubes in a 29" wheel, a little snug but works fine.

Thanks. Next question - I hate tubes. I know tubeless are pretty new for 29ers - are they excessively heavy? Are there good tire options at this point?

[Mike B.]

Tubeless in the 29er world is not quite the same as 26". There aren't currently any 29" tires that you would call tubeless but there are some referred to as tubeless ready, i.e. they require sealant. Hutchinson Python, a couple Bontragers, and our Crow model are of the tubeless ready variety. A few more models rumored to be on the way.

Lots of other tires can be converted to tubeless use. I'll let some others chime in with what they use in those instances. In general, yes the tires are heavier than their 26" counterparts but there is a decent selection to choose from.

[ferday]

stan rules the 29er world with the excellent arch/flow rims. i have heard of someone converting pretty well every available 29er tire.

tires are generally heavier...although many good ones are around 600g-700g which i don't think is horrible.

[MMcG]

Regarding a 69er - you can use a 26" tube in a 29er - but it can be a PITA.

And really - is it that huge a deal to carry two tubes in your camelbak? I usually do as our trails are pretty rocky and it has never bothered me.

As for 29er tubeless - ferday is right that Stans rims are the standard to meet/or try to beat right now.

As for 29er tires - more and more choices available with many of them very good in my opinion.

Try a combination of a Maxxis Ignitor in back and a Panaracer Rampage in front for example.

Are you looking at Treks for 69ers?

Are you close to Webcyclery? If so, they would be a great resource to ask more questions, and possibly to try out bikes. I know they feature Niner and they are a QBP company so you can also get access to Surly and/or Salsa frames.