Cycling: Which size bicycle wheels should you ride?

Older than the question of why did the chicken cross the road is the more pertinent question of what size wheels it was riding while crossing. We just assume that the chicken was clucking along on its tiny feet – why not assume instead that it was riding a bike? And then ask yourself if I were a chicken crossing a road what would be the size of my bicycle wheels? Ponder on that for a minute.

There is a lot of hullabaloo made over the different kinds of shoes which people wear for running. The sole thickness, arch, cushioning, etc is all dissected ad nauseam. And shoes are only of one size, the one which fits you. Yet they offer such a huge scope for endless customization. Now imagine the breadth of scope available in case of bicycle wheels which come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Remember those racing video games where you could customize and upgrade your ride to your own preference? You could choose different parts based on your desired preferences and build a unique combination of parts to get the exact performance you want. The same holds true for bikes. The most common distinction between different bikes is the wheel size. Here is a look at the most common wheel sizes and what kind of riding they are best suited for-

20″

These are used in BMXs. These wheels are quite thick and capable of off-road use. Normally, BMX bikes with 20″ wheels have a 360 handlebar. They are also, in spite of being the smallest, among the heaviest bikes around. They need to be sturdy to withstand the extreme tricks BMX riders pull. While a BMX won’t win any races versus the bigger bikes, surprisingly they accelerate the fastest. Based on personal experience, having raced a BMX against two Wahoo’s, I can attest that in a 10m race, these small wheels will serve you well. Having a small circumference allows them to accelerate faster.

Should I ride a 20″?

If you want the hardest possible workout on wheels, then a 20″ is for you. It is also great for pulling off tricks.

24″

These are used in trial bikes, like the one Danny MacAskill rides. These bikes give you the mobility of a BMX while giving you the advantages of a mountain bike. Best suited for shredding the urban trails.

Should I ride a 24″?

If you’re looking for flexibility in pulling off tricks, to go along with mobility, then this size is for you.

26″

These wheels are common among mountain bikes. They are ideal for the downhill and dirt jump and all purpose bikes. They are quite thick, at least 2 inches wide, and have great grip to cope with the varying terrain of the mountains they are built to navigate.

Should I ride a 26″?

If you’re looking to ride off-road and don’t want bumpy tracks to be a bother, go for a thick 26″.

700

These wheels are used in road bikes and on hybrid bikes. My hybrid has 700x35c wheels and it rolls along smooth as butter. Road bikes normally have 700x23c wheels. The 23c signifies the thickness of the tire. Smaller the thickness, lower the rolling resistance, allowing you to speed ahead. Being a hybrid, my bike is built for speed with enough thickness for tackling unpaved roads.

Should I ride a 700?

If you’re looking to ride on paved roads for long distances, you ought to swing for a 700. If the roads are smooth enough, go for a 700x23c, if the roads are mostly unpaved then swing for a 700×32/35/38c wheel.

29″

These wheels are quite popular among the cross country riders. They are great for going over uneven terrain, owing to their size they give lesser bumps while tackling rough roads.

Should I ride a 29″?

If you are looking for riding on uneven terrain and want a smooth ride while sacrificing some control, go for a 29er,

Initially, I was considering a 24″ because of the acceleration and workout it would provide. Taking long distances in account, I changed my mind to getting a 26. After a lot of trepidation, I swung for a 700x35c and prayed that it would be wide enough to tackle the roads of Kolkata. After riding for three months, I’m already planning to change to a 700x23c from my 700x35c. Wheel size can make a world of difference in your ride, pick yours carefully.