Man, What a Difference!

Last weekend, I took a ride on a Specialized Stumpjumper FSR 29er on the Perry Hill trails in Waterbury. Jack, our Specialized rep, was nice enough to drop off the Specialized demo trailer in our parking lot. The trailer was parked next to our shop for a few days, loaded with a fleet of demo bikes. I finally had a chance to take one out for a spin, and I was psyched to be heading to the glorious trail network of Putnam State Forest. It was the first time I’ve ridden a 29er on those trails and man, what a difference! I couldn't believe how much more hip I felt riding a bike with 29” wheels versus one with those antiquated 26ers. Not since I traded in my bar ends for a riser bar have I felt so smug, and let me tell you, it felt pretty darn good. If only I had a Prius to throw it on when I drove away.

I had a great ride, and afterwards, while enjoying a delicious pint of Smuttynose IPA at Waterbury Wings, I thought long and hard about the 29er versus 26er experience and whether the current buzz over 29ers is legitimate or just a bunch of hullabaloo. I thought about every turn, climb, and crash I had taken and wondered, did the 29er turn better? Well, slower. Did it climb better? Compared with my bike, which weighs 35 pounds? Definitely. Did it crash better? Just as good as a 26er, I’d say, but with those noticeably larger wheels spinning in the air, it made for a more dramatic aftermath.

I wanted to be thorough in my assessment and give the 29er a fair trial, so I ordered another pint and kept mulling it over. What about rolling over stuff and greater momentum and all that? Yeah, I think so. I mean, you know, sure, I think. What about the trend factor? Absolutely, without a doubt, I felt trendier. But as trend-conscious as I may be, that couldn’t be the deal breaker. I needed something more concrete. Perhaps this debate was headed for an impasse.

After finishing my second beer, I was able to form at least one solid conclusion: Whether you’re rolling on 26” wheels or 29” wheels, nothing beats a delicious pint of cold beer after a ride.