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650b vs 700c Wheels: Pros and Cons

Two Different Wheel Sizes

The 700c(622mm) wheel is the most commonly available option. It is ubiquitous in road cycling. 650b(584mm) wheels are available but very hard to come by, as they are not currently the standard, thought that is not to say that they are inferior. Both types of wheels have their pros and cons. It simply depends on the kind of riding you do and what your preferences are. 650b wheels have managed to make a comeback, however, as many gravel bikes make use of them.

650b Wheels

Pros

650b wheels have many advantages. They are commonly used on gravel bikes, as they free up more real estate for wider tires. Because of the limitations of many forks and chainstays, the tire size that can fit a gravel bike is not always as wide as some might like. Having wheels with a smaller diameter allows for wider tires that can be run at lower pressures. The lower pressure can increase comfort asas well as improve traction in dirt as well as in gravel. For road applications, they are more aero as there is a smaller frontal area.

Cons

650b wheels do have their disadvantages, however. The smaller size does not have the same amount of rotational momentum which means it can be more difficult to maintain speed. They are also less capable of rolling over debris as smoothly. Finally, they are not as widely available as their 700c counterparts. For road bikes using rim brakes, they are unusable unless the frame is specifically designed for 650b wheels.

 

Elitewheels Hub

 

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700c Wheels

Pros

700c road and gravel wheels are the norm. Because of this, it is very easy to find tires and inner tubes. They have the advantages of keeping their speed as there is more momentum. They also run better over debris the a road or trail. They have been widely accepted, and bicycle frames are designed around them.

Cons

While 700c wheels are the norm, they are not perfect. They have some disadvantages when compared to 650b wheels. Compared with the same rim. There is a slighty weight penaly due to more material. They are also less aerodynamic and can be more limiting when it comes to selecting wider tires.

 

marvel

2 comments

  • Steve
    Posted May 11, 2023 at 4:11 am

    Hi, I’ve just purchased some of your 650b carbon gravel wheels with RD13 60t ratchet rear hub (on your Ali site).
    Do you have user manuals and instructions on bearing sizes plus servicing including removing and replacing the bearings?

    • elitekang
      Posted May 12, 2023 at 1:58 pm

      Hello Steve, Since we belong to different departments and we sell different models of wheels, we have forwarded your question to the AliExpress store and they will reply to you. Thank you for your understanding.

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