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With most gravel bikes now offering dual wheel size compatibility for 700c and 650b, what are the differences and which size is right for you?

‘I’m a super-big fan of 650b,’ says Stayer Cycles founder and wheelbuilder Judith Rooze. ‘Most gravel bikes are designed primarily around 700c wheels, but 650b wheels, being smaller in diameter, allow you to run larger-volume tyres that will equate to roughly the same overall diameter. ‘This means the bike’s gearing and geometry is not adversely affected, while the bigger tyres can be run at lower pressures [because the larger air volume reduces the risk of pinch flats] which means more cushioning and grip, which really makes a gravel bike more versatile and capable over varied and technical terrain.’ To elaborate, a 700c wheel has a diameter of 622mm, while 650b measures 584mm. But that doesn’t include tyres. If we consider the actual rolling circumference with tyres fitted, a 700x40mm setup (2,205mm) is…

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Cyclist Off Road (Digital) - 1 Issue, Autumn 2020

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