Last Updated on February 29, 2024 by Vinson Lozano
Are you in the market for new wheels for your gravel bike but not sure which size to choose? With the increasing popularity of 650b wheels, many cyclists are left wondering if they are a better choice than the standard 700c wheels.
Both sizes have their pros and cons, and it ultimately depends on your riding style and preferences.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences between 650b and 700c wheels, and highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each. Whether you’re seeking better traction, increased comfort, or more maneuverability, we’ll help you make an informed decision.
Definition of 650b and 700c tires
In the world of cycling, two wheel sizes dominate the market: 650b and 700c.
The main difference between the two is the diameter of the rims, with 650b wheels measuring 584mm in diameter and 700c measuring 622mm.
Traditionally, 700c has been the standard size for road, mountain, touring, and cyclocross bikes. However, 650b has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to accommodate wider, higher volume tires for enhanced off-road handling and comfort. By running smaller wheels, larger tires can be mounted on the same frame due to wider seat and chain stays and fork blades.
This allows for more tire clearance, with some frames able to fit up to 53mm wide tires. While a switch from 700c to 650b may require new wheelsets and inner tubes, the potential benefits in terms of traction, grip, and overall ride experience may make it well worth the investment.
Pros of 650b Tires
Ability to use wider, higher volume tires
One advantage of 650b tires over their 700c counterparts is the ability to use wider, higher volume tires. This is because running smaller wheels allows for larger tires to be mounted on the same frame. This makes a major difference in terms of comfort and off-road handling, as the wider tires offer more clearance and a larger contact patch with the ground.
In fact, by swapping to 650b wheels, riders can often fit tires up to about 2.1 inches wide, which is about 5mm wider than the maximum tire width high-end 700c frames can accommodate.
The extra width makes for better traction and grip, which is especially important when riding on loose dirt or gravel. Additionally, the increased cushion of air created by the wider tires can reduce the risk of pinch punctures.
Overall, by being able to use wider, higher volume tires, 650b wheels are a great option for riders who prioritize comfort, off-road handling, and better traction over maximum rolling speed.
Improved comfort and off-road handling
Improved comfort and off-road handling are some of the significant advantages of using 650b tires over 700c tires. The wider volume of 650b tires allows riders to run lower tire pressures, providing a higher cushion of air, yielding enhanced grip, and improved comfort.
The larger tire size also makes a significant difference when riding on challenging terrain such as rocky trails or gravel roads, reducing the risk of getting an injury from jarring impacts.
Many shorter riders opt for 650b tires, providing better handling proportional to the bike’s frame size and reduced overlap. Additionally, the shorter spoke triangle leading to more robust construction makes the 650b wheels stronger than the 700c wheels.
The smaller rims are also less likely to cause pinch flats and offer extra comfort on longer rides. On the other hand, 700c tires offer faster rolling speed and are a good option for road biking and racing.
In conclusion, the choice between 650b and 700c tires depends on the rider’s preference and the type of terrain they intend to ride on. Riders who prioritize improved comfort and better traction and grip on challenging terrain will find 650b tires a better option.
Better traction and grip
When comes to off-road riding, better traction and grip can make all the difference. And this is where 650b tires have an advantage over 700c tires.
The wider and higher volume 650b tires make a larger contact patch with the ground, providing more grip and better traction. This feature is particularly useful when riding on challenging terrain such as loose dirt, gravel, and mud.
With 650b tires, riders feel more confident and in control, which not only makes for a safer ride but also a more enjoyable one. Moreover, larger tires of 650b provide improved comfort as they absorb more shock and vibrations, minimizing the impact on the rider’s body.
The combination of better traction and increased comfort is why many riders are opting for 650b tires for their gravel and mountain bikes. So, if you’re looking for a tire that can offer better grip and traction, 650b might be the right choice for you.
Stronger and more robust construction
One of the advantages of 650b tires over 700c is their stronger and more robust construction. The shorter spoke triangle in a 650b wheel allows for a more durable build, making it suitable for rougher terrain and heavier riders.
This construction provides a more stable wheel capable of handling more aggressive riding styles. Riders using 650b tires often report fewer issues with spoke breakage or rim damage.
Additionally, the larger volume of the 650b tire can also contribute to its durability. The cushion of air in the tire offers more protection against punctures and impact damage, further strengthening its construction.
It is worth noting, however, that not all 650b tires are created equal, and some may still be prone to defects or damage. It is important to do your research and find a reliable brand with a reputation for durable tires. By choosing a quality 650b tire, you can enjoy a stronger and more robust option for your off-road adventures.
Cons of 650b Tires
Limited selection and availability
One the downsides of choosing 650b tires over 700c is the limited selection and availability of 650b wheelsets and tires in the market.
As 650b tires are still relatively new, it may be challenging to find the exact tire size or brand you’re looking for, especially if you’re in a rural location.
Many bike shops may not carry a significant range of 650b tires and wheelsets in stock, which could make the search for the right one even more challenging.
However, this is changing as the popularity of 650b tires increases, and more cyclists are looking for wider and more comfortable off-road riding experiences.
Many reputable tire and wheelset brands are now producing high-quality 650b tires, which are becoming more readily available at bike shops and online stores. Therefore, with time, finding suitable 650b tire options for your bike shouldn’t be a big problem.
Despite the limited availability, it’s worth noting that the benefits of 650b tires often outweigh the drawbacks. Wider and higher volume tires provide enhanced grip, better comfort, and improved off-road handling compared to narrow 700c tires, making them an excellent choice for gravel riders and touring cyclists who love riding on diverse terrain.
Need to purchase new wheelsets and inner tubes
If you’re considering transitioning from 700c to 650b wheels, keep in mind that doing so will require the purchase of a new wheelset and inner tubes.
While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, the benefits of wider, higher volume tires on 650b wheels may outweigh the cost. By switching to 650b, you’ll have the ability to run larger tires that provide improved comfort and off-road handling, better traction and grip on challenging terrain, and stronger and more robust construction.
Additionally, 650b wheels are compatible with both road bike and mountain bike wheelsets, making them a versatile choice for riders.
When making the switch, it’s important to ensure that the tire size is matched to the frame and fork clearance of your bike to avoid any compatibility issues. While there is a limited selection and availability of 650b tires compared to 700c, many manufacturers are introducing bikes designed around 650b wheels, making them more widely available on the market.
Despite the need for a new wheelset and inner tubes, transitioning to 650b may offer an array of benefits that make it a worthwhile investment.
Potential changes to bike’s geometry and gearing
When switching from 700c to 650b wheels, potential changes to a bike’s geometry and gearing may occur. The smaller diameter of the 650b wheel will result in the bike sitting 19 mm (.75 inch) lower than when using 700c wheels.
However, the difference in diameter can be compensated for with the use of larger tires, which are often mounted on 650b wheels. In fact, many riders find that a 650b wheel with 42-47 mm wide tires measures about the same in diameter as a 700c wheel with 28-30 mm wide tires. Thus, the geometry remains largely the same, including the bottom bracket height and frame geometry.
That being said, the change in wheel size may affect the bike’s handling and require adjustments in gearing. Nonetheless, with proper tire selection, the potential changes to bike geometry and gearing should not be a significant issue. Overall, switching to 650b wheels can improve comfort, off-road handling, traction, and grip, making it a viable option for many riders.
Pros of 700c Tires
Widely available on the market
Both 650b and 700c wheels are widely available on the market, making them accessible to all types of riders. While 700c has been the standard for many years and remains widely popular, there has been a recent resurgence in 650b wheels.
Many manufacturers are introducing bikes designed around this wheel size and there are now a variety of options available for consumers. Whether you’re looking for a gravel bike, touring bike, mountain bike or cyclocross bike, you’ll be able to find a wheelset that suits your needs in either wheel size.
Plus, as both sizes are widely used, it’s easy to find replacement parts and accessories to fit your wheels. Whether you choose 650b or 700c, you’ll be able to take your cycling to the next level with a variety of tire options and wheelsets available on the market.
Compatible with road bike and mountain bike wheelsets
One the advantages of 650b tires over 700c is that they are compatible with both road bike and mountain bike wheelsets. This means that you can switch out your wheelset and maintain the benefits of wider, higher volume tires for improved comfort and off-road handling without having to purchase a whole new bike.
However, it is important to note that when converting from 700c to 650b, potential changes to the bike’s geometry and gearing must be considered. The bike will sit lower with the smaller wheel, but this can be compensated for with larger tires. Another factor to consider when converting is the need to purchase new wheelsets and inner tubes for the smaller diameter.
Despite these potential changes, many riders find that 650b wheels provide better traction and grip on challenging terrain and offer a stronger and more robust construction. Ultimately, matching tire size to frame and fork clearance is crucial for a successful conversion.
Narrower tires offer faster rolling speed
While many cyclists may prefer wider tires for improved comfort and off-road handling, there are some benefits to narrower tires as well. One of those benefits is faster rolling speed. The smaller contact patch of a narrower tire means less resistance against the pavement, allowing for easier and faster pedaling.
However, it’s important to consider the type of terrain you’ll be riding on before switching to narrower tires. While they may be faster on smooth pavement, they may not provide enough traction on loose gravel or dirt. It’s important to find the right balance between speed and stability.
If you choose to switch to narrower tires, it’s also important to ensure that they are compatible with your bike’s wheelset and that there is enough clearance between the tire and the frame/fork.
It’s also important to consider the potential changes to your bike’s geometry and gearing, as a switch to narrower tires may affect these factors.
Ultimately, the decision to switch to narrower tires should be based on personal preference and the type of riding you plan to do.
Cons of 700c Tires
Limited capacity for wider tires and less comfortable off-road handling
Despite their numerous advantages, 650b tires do come with a few downsides. One of the most significant drawbacks of 650b tires is their limited capacity for wider tires and less comfortable off-road handling compared to 700c tires.
While 650b wheels may have greater tire clearance than their larger counterparts, they still cannot accommodate tires as wide as 700c wheels. This means that 650b tires may not be as ideal for riding on challenging terrain as they may lack the necessary traction and grip. Narrower tires also mean that 650b wheels offer slower rolling speed and less stability.
However, with proper tire selection, these drawbacks can be minimized, and the benefits of 650b tires can still be enjoyed. In addition, it’s important to consider your bike’s frame and fork clearance when choosing a tire size to ensure optimal performance and safety. Ultimately, the decision between 650b and 700c tires will depend on your riding style, preferences, and needs.
Less traction and grip on challenging terrain
When comes to challenging terrain, 700c tires may not offer the best traction and grip. Due to their narrow width, these tires have less surface area in contact with the ground compared to wider 650b tires. As a result, riders may experience slipping and sliding on loose gravel, wet surfaces, or uneven terrain.
Additionally, 700c tires are not as capable of absorbing shocks and bumps, leading to a rough and uncomfortable ride. This can be especially problematic for riders who prefer longer distances or multi-day tours.
On the other hand, 650b tires offer a wider and higher-volume design, which allows for better traction and grip on challenging terrain. The increased surface area in contact with the ground provides stability and control, making it easier to handle the bike in difficult conditions. Moreover, the wider tires are able to absorb shocks and vibrations, leading to a smoother and more comfortable ride overall.
In summary, if you’re planning on riding on challenging terrain, it may be worth considering switching to 650b tires for better traction and grip. However, keep in mind that switching to 650b will require purchasing a new wheelset and inner tubes, and there may be potential changes to the bike’s geometry and gearing. As always, make sure to match the tire size to the frame and fork clearance to ensure proper fit and function.
Compatibility Considerations
Tips for converting from 700c to 650b
Converting from 700c to 650b is a great way to enjoy the benefits of wider, higher volume tires that offer improved comfort and off-road handling. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this conversion requires some adjustments to the bike’s geometry and gearing. Here are some tips to help you with the conversion:
1. Check frame and fork clearance: Make sure that your frame and fork have enough clearance to accommodate the wider tires. Consider the maximum tire size recommended by the manufacturer and measure the space between the tire and the frame/fork to avoid rubbing.
2. Choose the right wheelset: You will need to purchase a new wheelset that is compatible with 650b tires and your bike’s drivetrain. Consider the type of riding you plan to do to choose the appropriate rim width and spoke count.
3. Adjust brake reach: Since 650b wheels have a smaller diameter than 700c, you will need to adjust your brakes to ensure they reach the rim. You may need to replace your brakes with longer-reach models.
4. Match tire size to frame and fork clearance: Always choose the appropriate tire size that matches the clearance of your frame and fork. Never use tires that are too wide or too narrow for your bike to prevent safety hazards.
With these tips in mind, converting from 700c to 650b can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Importance of matching tire size to frame and fork clearance
Matching size to frame and fork clearance is essential for a smooth and safe ride. It’s important to choose a tire size that fits within your frame and fork’s clearance limits to avoid any potential problems, such as rubbing or difficulty steering. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
– Check your bike’s specifications to see the maximum tire width it can accommodate. This information can usually be found in the owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
– Be mindful of any additional clearance needed for fenders or other accessories that may affect tire clearance.
– When switching from 700c to 650b wheels, it’s important to consider the potential changes to your bike’s geometry and gearing. Make sure to choose a tire size that will work within these constraints.
– Always measure the tire clearance with the actual tire you plan to use, as different tire models and brands can have slightly different dimensions even within the same size.
By taking the time to match your tire size to your frame and fork clearance, you’ll ensure a comfortable and safe ride that’s optimized for your bike’s specific capabilities.
