kennyrayandersen wrote:Two shocks -- kind of sounds like a gimmick really. I mean with proper valving one shock should do it well. Also, there is a weight penalty for two shocks -- I paid good money to get the weight out!
I bought a bike just last year and I didn't even look at 29'ers -- maybe it's me, but if I were doing downhill, or something maybe, but I do a lot of climbing and theoretically the 26'ers still have some advantages. first I can get parts easier, second there is less rotational inertia with a 26'er and I think the steering will also be a bit quicker. I do a LOT of steep climbing over in Korea (where I'm working) so having a smaller, more nimble wheel/tire is important. I've actually read where the optimum tire size is 27.5 and I guess there are a few of them trickling out, but again, it hard to start something new as finding tires etc. is not so easy (and when you do the selection is limited).
I'm riding a Canondale Rize 2 -- it was already more money than I should have spent!
It is not made for the same person that would be riding a Rize.
I personally would love a bike that climbs like my Stump FSR and descends like my Enduro
29ers If they don't have parts for them where you are.. then no they would not be a good idea.
We have steep terrain here also. 29ers have far better traction than a 26.. On rides I am often the only one that can make certain hills.
Heavy wheels don't accelerate as wheel.. but they hold their speed once rolling.
hmm do you know Grant Peterson? Formerly of Bridgestone Bikes..and now of Rivendell.
You should read what he says of his Pugsley.
http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=274805
on the section labeled page 28... The Pugsley Conundrum
and do you know about the Surly Pugsly? They have 26" wheels but tires so big they are as tall as 29ers.. and they are almost 4" wide.