Are you tired of the limited options for wheels on your 26-inch bike? Have you been wondering if you can upgrade to 700c wheels? If so, you’re not alone. Many cyclists are curious about the possibility of swapping out their wheels for a different size. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of installing 700c wheels on a 26-inch bike and help you decide if it’s the right move for you.
But before we dive into the details, let’s define what we mean by 700c and 26-inch wheels. 700c wheels are the standard size for road bikes, while 26-inch wheels are typically found on mountain bikes. These two wheel sizes are not interchangeable, but with a bit of tweaking, it is possible to fit 700c wheels onto a 26-inch bike. Let’s take a closer look!
Can I put 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
Yes, you can put 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike, but it may require some modifications.
First, you need to ensure that the brake calipers are compatible with the larger wheels. If not, you will need to replace them with calipers that have a longer reach to accommodate the larger diameter wheels.
Secondly, you need to consider the tire clearance. 700c wheels are larger in diameter than 26 inch wheels, so you need to make sure that there is enough space between the tire and the frame/fork. If not, you may need to replace the frame or fork to accommodate the larger wheels.
Difference between 700c and 26 inch wheels
The main difference between 700c and 26 inch wheels is their diameter. 700c wheels have a larger diameter of approximately 622mm, while 26 inch wheels have a smaller diameter of approximately 559mm.
Because of their larger diameter, 700c wheels have a larger contact patch with the ground, which reduces rolling resistance and provides a smoother ride. Additionally, larger wheels can help to improve handling and stability at higher speeds.
Benefits of putting 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike
The main benefit of putting 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike is that the larger wheels will provide a smoother ride and better rolling efficiency. This is because larger wheels have a larger contact patch with the ground, which reduces rolling resistance and allows for a smoother ride. Additionally, larger wheels can help to improve handling and stability at higher speeds.
Another benefit of using 700c wheels is that they are more widely available than 26 inch wheels. This means that you will have a wider range of tire options to choose from, including tires with different tread patterns, widths, and puncture protection. This can help you to customize your bike for different types of riding and terrain.
Disadvantages of putting 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike
One of the main disadvantages of putting 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike is that it can affect the geometry of the bike. Larger wheels will raise the bottom bracket height, which can affect the bike’s handling. Additionally, the larger wheels can also affect the bike’s standover height, making it harder to get on and off the bike.
Another disadvantage of using 700c wheels is that they may not be compatible with your current bike components. For example, if you have a 26 inch suspension fork, it may not be able to accommodate the larger 700c wheels. You may need to replace the fork or buy a new bike entirely.
What size tires can I use with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
The size of the tires that you can use with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike will depend on the clearance between the tire and the frame/fork. Generally, you can use tires that are up to 700c x 45mm in size, but you should check the clearance before installing them. If there is not enough clearance, you may need to use smaller tires or replace the frame/fork to accommodate larger tires.
It’s also important to note that the width of the tire will affect the handling and performance of the bike. Narrower tires will be faster and more efficient on smooth roads, while wider tires will provide better traction and stability on rough terrain.
People also ask
Can I use a 700c wheel on the rear of a 26 inch bike?
Yes, you can use a 700c wheel on the rear of a 26 inch bike, but it may require some modifications. First, you need to ensure that the wheel is compatible with your bike frame. If not, you may need to replace the frame to accommodate the larger wheel.
Additionally, you need to consider the spacing of the rear dropouts. 700c wheels have a larger diameter than 26 inch wheels, so you may need to spread the dropouts to fit the larger wheel. This can be done using a tool called a dropout spreader.
Can I use a 700c wheel on the front of a 26 inch bike?
Yes, you can use a 700c wheel on the front of a 26 inch bike, but it may require some modifications. First, you need to ensure that the wheel is compatible with your bike fork. If not, you may need to replace the fork to accommodate the larger wheel.
Additionally, you need to consider the brake calipers. 700c wheels have a larger diameter than 26 inch wheels, so you may need to replace the brake calipers with ones that have a longer reach to accommodate the larger wheel.
Can I use my existing cassette with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
It depends on the size of the cassette and the compatibility with the wheel. If the cassette is compatible with the hub on the 700c wheel and has the same number of speeds as your current cassette, then you should be able to use it without any issues.
However, if the cassette is not compatible with the hub on the 700c wheel, then you will need to replace it. Additionally, if the cassette has a different number of speeds than your current cassette, then you may need to adjust the derailleur or replace it to ensure proper shifting.
Can I use my existing disc brakes with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
It depends on the compatibility of your disc brakes with the larger wheels. If your disc brakes have a larger enough rotor size to accommodate the larger wheels, and the caliper has enough reach to contact the rotor, then you should be able to use your existing disc brakes without any issues.
However, if your disc brakes do not have a large enough rotor size or the caliper does not have enough reach, then you may need to replace them with ones that are compatible with the larger wheels.
Can I use my existing rim brakes with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
It depends on the compatibility of your rim brakes with the larger wheels. If your rim brakes have a long enough reach to accommodate the larger wheels, then you should be able to use your existing rim brakes without any issues.
However, if your rim brakes do not have a long enough reach, then you may need to replace them with ones that are compatible with the larger wheels. Additionally, you may need to adjust the brake pads to ensure that they contact the rim properly.
Can I use my existing tubes with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
No, you cannot use your existing tubes with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike. This is because the tubes are designed to fit specific tire sizes, and 700c tubes will not fit properly in 26 inch tires. You will need to purchase new tubes that are designed for 700c tires.
It’s important to choose the right tube size for your 700c tires to ensure proper fit and performance. You should choose a tube with a valve length that is appropriate for your rims, and a width that matches the width of your tires.
Can I use my existing tires with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
No, you cannot use your existing tires with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike. This is because the tires are designed to fit specific wheel sizes, and 26 inch tires will not fit properly on 700c wheels. You will need to purchase new tires that are designed for 700c wheels.
When choosing new tires, it’s important to consider the width, tread pattern, and puncture protection. You should choose a tire width that is appropriate for the terrain you will be riding on, a tread pattern that provides the right amount of traction, and a puncture protection system that suits your needs.
Can I use my existing bike frame with 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike?
It depends on the compatibility of your bike frame with the larger wheels. If your bike frame has enough clearance to accommodate the larger wheels, and the brake calipers have enough reach to contact the rims, then you should be able to use your existing frame with 700c wheels.
However, if your bike frame does not have enough clearance or the brake calipers do not have enough reach, then you may need to replace the frame or the calipers to accommodate the larger wheels.
Conclusion
The question of whether you can put 700c wheels on a 26 inch bike is a complex one with no clear-cut answer. While it is technically possible to make the switch, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks before making any modifications to your bike.
Firstly, changing the wheel size on your bike can affect its handling and stability, which may not be ideal for all types of riding. Additionally, you may need to make other modifications to your bike to accommodate the larger wheels, such as adjusting the brakes and changing the gearing.
Ultimately, the decision to switch to 700c wheels should be based on your individual needs and preferences as a rider. If you are willing to make the necessary adjustments and are comfortable with the potential changes to your bike’s performance, then it may be worth considering.
However, if you are unsure or hesitant about the process, it may be best to stick with your bike’s original wheel size.
