Mixed Wheel Vs 29" Mountain Bike Wheels | The Wheel Size Debate Still Continues

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  • čas pƙidĂĄn 16. 10. 2021
  • It's been over 3 years since our last wheel size debate video, because...well, we thought it had been settled! But now a new question has arisen. How about mixed wheels? The new Orbea Rallon comes with a spare linkage in order to swap a 29er rear wheel out for a smaller 650b (or 27.5). But why would you want to do this? Is it faster? Is it more fun? How does it change the handling? Neil is putting in some laps at Bikepark Wales to find out.
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    Yes, it seemed that for a moment there the bike industry had settled on making smaller size bikes with smaller wheels whilst reserving 27.5 wheels for fun, playful trail bikes. This left 29 inch wheels for race-driven disciplines like downhill, enduro and cross country. Want to go fast? Choose 29". Want to have fun? Go for 27.5". But now there's an option to have both đŸ€Ż
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Komentáƙe • 514

  • @rumblefishes
    @rumblefishes Pƙed 2 lety +326

    I only ride uphill, so I run a TRUE mullet, 29 out the back, 26 at the front.

    • @buckroger6456
      @buckroger6456 Pƙed 2 lety +10

      😅😅 classic

    • @lightbulb5116
      @lightbulb5116 Pƙed 2 lety +14

      Mad lad 😂

    • @joelrunyan1608
      @joelrunyan1608 Pƙed 2 lety +47

      Classic 69er... đŸ€”

    • @zon3ful
      @zon3ful Pƙed 2 lety +14

      I thought mountain bikers use cars or ski lifts to get uphill.

    • @newttella1043
      @newttella1043 Pƙed 2 lety +54

      Do you shuttle the downhill portions?

  • @jeff1447
    @jeff1447 Pƙed 2 lety +41

    Love my mullet- sits into corners faster/easier, and really helped with my jumping and manual ability vs the full 29er. Not covered in the video but the way it accelerates up techy climbs is unreal and quite often not spoken about. Only place I'd want full 29er back on is if I was riding a lot of higher speed, groomed bike park downhill where fast rock gardens or braking bumps were common- you lose the monster truck rollover feeling and the rear hangs up a bit.... But for playing and enjoying regular trail riding, mullet wins.

    • @JLambinator
      @JLambinator Pƙed 2 lety +4

      Great explanation/review. What bike are you running? I've heard about the better technical climbing of MX setup from others as well. That's a pretty big positive, especially since the monster truck roller over thing in rock gardens seems to be more "feel" than actual speed loss issue.

    • @user-yl6sr7yk1z
      @user-yl6sr7yk1z Pƙed rokem

      What is your bike man!?

  • @adrian_veidt
    @adrian_veidt Pƙed 2 lety +25

    Saw mullets on redbull rampage. 27.5 front, 26 back. They're legit and fun.

    • @owengarnett1008
      @owengarnett1008 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      That's how I have my old (2013) V-10 set up and it's a blast!

    • @gtasomogyi
      @gtasomogyi Pƙed 2 lety +4

      I do run that too on my 2004 UMF DirtKick. 26 rear, 27,5 front, 120mm fork, low rise 780mm bar, 70mm low angle stem, dropper post.
      Fun bike. :) I "name" it as a "down-country/mini-trail" bike.

    • @mudkayak6305
      @mudkayak6305 Pƙed 2 lety

      Remember Rampage is mostly groomed vs natural chunk and roots you might find on trails or freeriding, so Im thinking 26 rear may tend to kicked around or hung up some for most of us - no?

  • @rawmancemtb
    @rawmancemtb Pƙed 2 lety +42

    If I have the choice I'm always picking the mullet. Ridden all wheel sizes. The main problem with the 29" rear wheel is that it's so high. So when you are hucking something you can't bring your rear as low. I've had a couple of close calls on my 29" bike as I've touched it and almost flipped over.

    • @jasper_of_puppets
      @jasper_of_puppets Pƙed 2 lety +3

      Bingo. I've got a short inseam, so I absolutely need all the space I can get between my ass and the rear tire. No way I'll ever buy a bike with a 29er in the rear... 27.5 is big enough

    • @brunox3503
      @brunox3503 Pƙed 2 lety +3

      Same to me with 83 cm inseam and 175 cm height. 29 in the rear works great in fast and shaped areas. But when it becomes steep, technical and slower I have more space to move with 650b in the rear. So for a do-it-all I would go mullet or full 650b. But a 29 wheel ist rolling very well and so the mixture seems to be perfect. I've got no experiences with all mountain riding on natural trails up and downhill. Very interested in how this works?! Guess with the right geo it should work and be fun. Anyone can answer?

    • @bchearne
      @bchearne Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Definitely depends on height, riding style , and terrain

    • @alabaster4263
      @alabaster4263 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      I've definitely had my 29er wipe my ass

    • @Bozza36
      @Bozza36 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Interesting point. I've never had this issue and I lover 29ers (wouldn't go for anything else), but I am a lanky guy, so it makes sense.

  • @livingon2wheels
    @livingon2wheels Pƙed 2 lety +38

    Great video, excellent insights, amazing riding!
    I think we often miss the biggest issue in the wheel size debate: the size of the rider. I'm only 5'7" and 148 lbs so the 27.5 wheel size is perfect for me. Anything with a 29 is just making the bike bigger when that's not something that I want as a rider. I completely understand how the 29 is a great innovation for larger riders. I just think GBMN might think all riders are large riders that want the largest possible wheels on their bikes. BTW, Red Bull Rampage riders last week were all on 27.5 or 26/27.5 mullets.

    • @karlheinznickek1671
      @karlheinznickek1671 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      I don‘t ride at rampage 😁

    • @lowelllomberio
      @lowelllomberio Pƙed 2 lety

      and the longest travel

    • @Byrne998
      @Byrne998 Pƙed 2 lety +7

      Dude I’m 6”1 and 27.5 with tyres is huge, the wheel with tyres is far bigger than 27.5, 29er’s are just oversized and make the bike less utility and more ground hog. On a road bike 29er is great for speed and efficiency but on a enduro I just think 27.5 is way more fun and more than large enough for me.

  • @thevapingpolisher9717
    @thevapingpolisher9717 Pƙed 2 lety +31

    And I’m still having fun on the 26 ers

    • @maxno2390
      @maxno2390 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Me to 😂 but I do want to switch to 27,5

    • @agrsk8r
      @agrsk8r Pƙed 2 lety +4

      Me too! But I've been thinking about trying a 27.5 front. The fork I threw on my bike last year can take it so it wouldn't be terribly expensive.

    • @ilionatroya7129
      @ilionatroya7129 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      I miss my Rocky Mountain Slayer 26er! I was so nimble and explosive on it.

    • @gtasomogyi
      @gtasomogyi Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@agrsk8r Go for it! I run my UMF DirtKick so a while ago too. It is fun. :) Just probably will be necessary to get a lower stem/bar.

    • @ross360robertson
      @ross360robertson Pƙed 2 lety +1

      You would have a better choice in tyres as well. I was thinking about doing the same

  • @alexanderd145
    @alexanderd145 Pƙed 2 lety +3

    Makes sense. I suppose there's a reason that off-road/adventure motorbikes have a big wheel up front and a smaller wheel in the back.

  • @lagwall
    @lagwall Pƙed 2 lety +4

    Once the Santa Cruz Bronson and the Evil Insurgent went Mullet I knew I had no choice. It was the decision I was thinking about and Santa Cruz made it for me.
    I 100% love the HIGHLY IMPROVED corning of 27.5 in back with the roll over of the 29er infront!!!

  • @mathinflames
    @mathinflames Pƙed 2 lety +15

    Coming from a 29er, I have definetely noticed the same differences as you on the mullet. I feel quicker in corners with the mx wheels and that gives me much more confidence to go faster elsewhere on the trail. I also feel like the bike is easier to control in the air. Nice video.

    • @kurtmccann137
      @kurtmccann137 Pƙed 2 lety

      this largely depends on bikes. I have a 27.5 Tues and a Meta AM 29 and I ride the same bike park (mountain creek) and frequently I set PRs on the Meta on tracks that are very corner heavy.

    • @kurtmccann137
      @kurtmccann137 Pƙed 2 lety

      I'm also 5'7"

  • @kentbell6731
    @kentbell6731 Pƙed 2 lety +3

    Neil,
    Great video, there’s a time and a place for both! I find the mullet on my specialize levo during winter time is confidence inducing. During the summertime I don’t mind running 20 Niners. Coming from a background of downhill racing on snow skis, Enduro motorcycle racing, I really like charging downhill. The Mullet works for me!

  • @chrisridesbicycles
    @chrisridesbicycles Pƙed 2 lety +77

    I‘m happy with 29. Doesn’t make a difference with my riding abilities and I can use up the half-worn front tires on the rear.

    • @oskarstaudte
      @oskarstaudte Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Agreed

    • @northmanscall
      @northmanscall Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Doing the same

    • @adcashmo
      @adcashmo Pƙed 2 lety

      Good point about extending the use of one tyre!

    • @drewjonespdx
      @drewjonespdx Pƙed 2 lety

      @Josh Allen yall wipe yet?

    • @radidoc4832
      @radidoc4832 Pƙed 2 lety

      @Josh Allen You'll likely get you arse buzzed with the rear wheel before that! JK 😉

  • @deannamichael6685
    @deannamichael6685 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Just picked up the newest issue of MTB Action where they test mix wheels from Mullet Cycles. After getting back into the sport after almost 20yrs this was a new concept to me and was asking myself, “why?” Thank you for this video and also thank you to everyone leaving comments. It was hugely informative and my question was answered.

  • @AndreasRavnestad
    @AndreasRavnestad Pƙed 2 lety +16

    I ride mullets, and the biggest reason is that it's harder for my butt to catch the rear wheel on a steep descent. There are some other minor advantages, but this is by far the biggest one. And this is why I think mullets will never fall out of vogue.

    • @Atomb
      @Atomb Pƙed 2 lety

      They aren't going anywhere.

    • @BrandinBowler
      @BrandinBowler Pƙed 2 lety

      Completely agree

    • @Bozza36
      @Bozza36 Pƙed 2 lety

      I honestly feel like it is a height thing. I never even get close to hitting my bum on the tyre because I'm lanky. Wheel sizes will probably start to coincide with different bike sizes.

    • @AndreasRavnestad
      @AndreasRavnestad Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@Bozza36 Could be, I'm 189cm and will rarely scrub a 29" back wheel. But when I do, it's at the outmost inconvenient times (very very steep sections and/or drops).

    • @camwells9726
      @camwells9726 Pƙed 2 lety

      I’m on a 29er , I’ve got short legs long torso and ride a larger size frame than must people my height .
      I buzz my arse a lot , but not to the point where it destroys my ride ,
      But in saying that I’m probably a prime candidate for someone that is suites to a mullet , love to try one .

  • @msagoo29
    @msagoo29 Pƙed 2 lety +19

    I had a Trek 69er back in 2010, loved it until it got stolen from my garage

  • @scratchy996
    @scratchy996 Pƙed 2 lety +14

    You should keep the wheels different, so other people on the trail notice your cool mullet.

    • @Cous1nJack
      @Cous1nJack Pƙed 2 lety +3

      And pump them up in the carpark so people notice your shiny track pump.

  • @Swayndo
    @Swayndo Pƙed 2 lety +3

    Depends on the bike and terrain. I've been mixing wheel sizes for years. Currently have a Vendetta with a 650b x 2.8 and 29 x 2.6 front. I sometimes use the same combo in my Hightower. Both give massive traction and greater protection from water bars and riding through rock. Both take a b+ or 29 wheel.

  • @kevininman2013
    @kevininman2013 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    I have 2007 Trek 69er SS that I absolutely love and will never get rid of, because it’s like riding a bmx bike it handles amazing and is really fun to climb with! The original mullet bike!!

  • @johnglynn7795
    @johnglynn7795 Pƙed 2 lety

    Well done mate and thank you very much for the informative video. BTW, great riding! Would like to see the bike comparison between and Orbea E bike versus the Specialized equivalent.

  • @skarabyll1458
    @skarabyll1458 Pƙed 2 lety +11

    i love 27.5 and im never gonna change, im quiet tall with 186cm but 29 just not for me

  • @kyled121
    @kyled121 Pƙed 2 lety +59

    I like Neil's honesty. That he expected to prefer 29 all round and was surprised that he found he preferred mixed. I expect that his decision would be validated as he gets used to the new set up.

  • @stevepodraza6363
    @stevepodraza6363 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I’ve been running my liteville 301 with 27.5 x 2.6 DHF front and 26 x 2.8 DHR and loving it!

  • @matthewzyglicki603
    @matthewzyglicki603 Pƙed 2 lety +6

    Mullet forever. I'm 6'3 and can ride a full 29er easily but as Neil said, the mullet feels so much better.

  • @andymtb3212
    @andymtb3212 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    I’m an old motocross racer. The mixed wheel and eagle grip shift have me feeling like the old days. I’m also 5’9” with kinda short legs so getting rid of the tire buzz, the improved handling on steep rock rolls, cornering and jumping improvements all work for me.

  • @joshiles3732
    @joshiles3732 Pƙed 2 lety +26

    Love my mullet, defo feel I’m able to get my rear end out that much more.ride a Specialised status nice and slack with crazy short chain stay.

    • @SnootchieBootchies27
      @SnootchieBootchies27 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      Loving my Status!

    • @SkylarRace
      @SkylarRace Pƙed 2 lety +3

      I have the Status 160 and absolutely love the bike. The short chainstay makes the bike so maneuverable and playful. The smaller rear wheel accelerates quicker than a 29 and stops faster as well. Very fun bike!

    • @mtbmadness3442
      @mtbmadness3442 Pƙed 2 lety +3

      @@SkylarRace completely agree such a do it all bike status squad

    • @Nik-gh6gz
      @Nik-gh6gz Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@mtbmadness3442 lol there’s lots of us here I guess
 the value is unbeatable

    • @redinho1994
      @redinho1994 Pƙed 2 lety

      @@mtbmadness3442 I love my Status 160 too. Immediately swapped the Butchers for Assegai / DHR II though :D

  • @mogulhopper
    @mogulhopper Pƙed 2 lety

    Great video Neil especially as I am just about to try a mullet set up on a 2017 Trek Slash which I want purely for uplift venues . After watching this review I'm quietly confident my experimenting will be a pleasant surprise.

  • @gtasomogyi
    @gtasomogyi Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Nice to see that Neil agrees with mullet wheels!
    I run an old UMF DirtKick frame from 2004 as a mullet.
    Tapered 120mm fork for 27,5" front wheel, 26" rear wheel, 780mm low rise bar, 70mm low angle stem, dropper post.
    For my 178cm and 72kg it is a fun bike, both up-, and downhill.

  • @christopherwatson1163
    @christopherwatson1163 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Love it!! Mullet is the future.... I love my new bronson and I am really glad to hear you echo my own thoughts on ride feel.

  • @jth3h0und18
    @jth3h0und18 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I ordered a Guerilla Gravity mullet Megatrail. Should be shipping out any day now. Can't wait to ride it.

  • @nicolaspade1341
    @nicolaspade1341 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Love the 80s "montage" sound track on the Mullet section :D

  • @dylananderson4314
    @dylananderson4314 Pƙed 2 lety +4

    I have 1000 miles on my mulleted Ibis Mojo HD5 and I love it. Corners quicker than a 29er, easier to move the back wheel around, more butt to wheel clearance, and I feel it's easier to pop the front end of the bike up. Doesn't feel like the back wheel is getting held up on chunkier terrain at all. No complaints yet and I plan on getting another mullet for my next bike! Can't wait until the bike industry starts to embrace mixed wheel sizes a bit more.

    • @12pagani
      @12pagani Pƙed 2 lety

      Yay another mojo enthusiast. I picked up a ridden hard but solid mojo SL and am rebuilding and painting it the way I want it. I'm strongly considering putting a 29er up front and mulleting her out. I'm mostly targeting downhill and aggressive trail riding wand want a snappy feel but figured the 29 tire and fork would be more forgiving on my back and give me better front end grip in corners. Any other recommendation considering the DW link on the mojos to take into account?

  • @martincantwell2557
    @martincantwell2557 Pƙed 2 lety +15

    Screw the wheel sizes, I want that mini ratchet set👀

    • @traildogisla
      @traildogisla Pƙed 2 lety

      Anyone able to ID the rachet set?

    • @martincantwell2557
      @martincantwell2557 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@traildogisla I think it's from topeak, looks like they do some nice tidy little sets

  • @greengonzonz
    @greengonzonz Pƙed 2 lety

    Agreed. I'm the same height and tend to hover over the back wheel (clearance has been an issue) but I like the "steam roller" effect of the large wheel up front. 👍

  • @DallinVanBlerkom
    @DallinVanBlerkom Pƙed 2 lety

    Super grateful y'all keep working in that muck on our behalf. Cheers.

  • @joelrunyan1608
    @joelrunyan1608 Pƙed 2 lety +6

    The thing with going mullet on a 29er? Unless you change the rear triangle? You won't get the main benefits of the small wheel in back.... a short chainstay...

    • @joelrunyan1608
      @joelrunyan1608 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      If your going mullet? You really should just be adding a big wheel and fork to a 27.5 bike

  • @roha2317
    @roha2317 Pƙed 2 lety +33

    I miss a time comparison between the two options, I know it's 2 seconds difference but what were the total times?
    Personally I'm on the tall side (186cm) so I will pretty much stick with 29", that is until 30.5" is released in 2023.

    • @legalize.brokkoli
      @legalize.brokkoli Pƙed 2 lety +12

      30.5" wheels rock. Use them on my tractor.

    • @viljosavolainen2286
      @viljosavolainen2286 Pƙed 2 lety

      @@legalize.brokkoli old or small tractor?

    • @legalize.brokkoli
      @legalize.brokkoli Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@viljosavolainen2286 both :)

    • @bchearne
      @bchearne Pƙed 2 lety +1

      I reckon the speed difference will depend on what you’re riding. Smaller wheels will be better on acceleration, bigger will carry more momentum through rough areas, probably

    • @Bozza36
      @Bozza36 Pƙed 2 lety

      I'm with you, I feel like I'll always go for the biggest wheels available.

  • @RiddleKingOnline
    @RiddleKingOnline Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Surprising result! I actually went the other way and decided to stay 29'er after testing. I'm only 177cm with a big bike too, 2021 Trek Slash M/L. The mullet (w/mino chip in high) was fun but the increased pedal strikes and some looser moments scared me. As a one-bike-guy the scales tipped towards honing my skills on the smooth/flowy/efficient style of 29er and just focussing on that. I've still got the little wheel though. It's a different skill which makes switching between them fun if I get the time.

  • @Squirrel_Rides
    @Squirrel_Rides Pƙed 2 lety +11

    Yeah!! I've only got one ride in on my bike after throwing a 27.5 on the rear, but I was so surprised! I much prefer a 29er to a 27.5 even though I'm really short, but the mullet setup was a gem! Zippy and roomy in the rear with the rollover and speed in the front that I've gotten used to. For someone my size, this might be just the ticket. I'm anxious to put some more miles on it.

    • @camwells9726
      @camwells9726 Pƙed 2 lety

      How is it going ?

    • @Squirrel_Rides
      @Squirrel_Rides Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@camwells9726 I really liked it! I’ve put the 29 rear back on because the 27.5 wheel belongs on my other bike (my 29er wheelset is much nicer - carbon with a better hub, etc). I definitely think I’ll be looking at a mullet when it comes time to replace this bike. It just makes sense for my size and style.

    • @camwells9726
      @camwells9726 Pƙed 2 lety

      @@Squirrel_Rides I’ve never tried one , but in my dimensions I’m probably a prime example of someone suited , short legs long torso , that rides a big frame to get the reach I like .
      178 cm on a large frame , in theory a mullet should make the overall ride more agile and feel not so big ?

    • @Squirrel_Rides
      @Squirrel_Rides Pƙed 2 lety

      @@camwells9726 sounds reasonable! The Downtime Podcast did a great episode last year about wheel sizes - worth a listen :)

    • @camwells9726
      @camwells9726 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@Squirrel_Rides ok thanks for the heads up , will have a listen , cheers

  • @BrandinBowler
    @BrandinBowler Pƙed 2 lety +3

    I converted my 2021 YT Jeffsy 29'er to a mullet setup. Bike rides mostly the same but I have nearly crashed bad from back tire butt hits when it was a 29'er. Also makes your bike look cool and 27.5 wheels are stronger haha.

  • @mitchelljarvis2944
    @mitchelljarvis2944 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Please do a comparison of a 27.5 frame bike and testing it out in mullet form since it now raises the BB and slackens.

  • @scoaus
    @scoaus Pƙed 2 lety +2

    I’ve been running mullet for 6 months. I love steep slow technical tracks and mullet gives me the ability to get inside the bike behind the bars more and not hit my bum on the rear tyre. It does everything else you can do, so for an all round experience, I love it. But horses for courses if you have the money to have spare wheels and setups laying around though.

    • @richardpeet6829
      @richardpeet6829 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      I agree, that feeling of being more inside the bike is real.

  • @kingrat738
    @kingrat738 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Ride moolay setup on my Banshee Phantom V3... Rear dropouts allow BB to be raised/lowered. I enjoy how it rides.

  • @skeeterdiablo
    @skeeterdiablo Pƙed 2 lety +1

    What’s old is new again. Mixed wheel sizes had some popularity in the mid-80s. My first “real” MTB was an C’dale SM700 with a 26”Fx24”R.

  • @tomselick6983
    @tomselick6983 Pƙed 2 lety +8

    Thanks for this video, after reading the history of how the 29 came to be I always thought the 275 was a marketing idea and fad

 now im about to buy a 2019 bronson
 I seem to have more fun on 275s and should be capable for the 2 events per year in my area

    • @Windband1
      @Windband1 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      Agreed, 275 are still super fun!

    • @tomt6767
      @tomt6767 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      Agreed. I just went for a 29 in Reign to the 27.5 2019 Bronson and it's the most fun I've had in so long

    • @tomselick6983
      @tomselick6983 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@tomt6767 good to hear, I just bought it this morning!!!!

  • @seany2345
    @seany2345 Pƙed 2 lety +3

    I ride a 26er but want to eventually upgrade forks to the Fox 38s and have the 27.5 up front. Gonna be an expensive upgrade but sounds like it'll be worth it after your review! Thanks!

    • @msawyer110
      @msawyer110 Pƙed rokem

      Uhmmm your gonna put a 1,000$ fork on a 500$ bike with geometry meant for 26's. Not to intelligent if you ask me

    • @seany2345
      @seany2345 Pƙed rokem

      @@msawyer110 no ones asking you, no ever asks internet comment trolls like you to chime in with your stupid uninformed opinions. You don't know my bike or setup, so take your negativity elsewhere. I paid $500 for new forks to make my 2014 Yeti SB66 into a mullet and I shred on it harder than you could ever dream of doing yourself.. so stay in your lane shooting guns, playing airplane and call of duty video games, and leave the mountain biking to those that actually ride.

  • @TeamCGS2005
    @TeamCGS2005 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Fantastic video!

  • @khamsum35kd24
    @khamsum35kd24 Pƙed 2 lety

    I've learned so much of of you guys

  • @davidpeters9897
    @davidpeters9897 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Back in the mid '80s, Cannondale made bikes with 26 on the front and 24 on the back, Does anybody still have one of those?

  • @Atomb
    @Atomb Pƙed 2 lety +2

    I have a mullet and it is my choice. I love not dealing with tire-in-crack.

  • @profefelipemedina3753
    @profefelipemedina3753 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I remember when you talked about the benefits of the 27.5+... which I barely see today on bikes. Let's see if this time you nail it.

  • @Mattcamel51
    @Mattcamel51 Pƙed 2 lety

    I've got a 27.5 wheel being built for my Switchblade V2 currently. I'm super excited for the mullet

  • @paulc7551
    @paulc7551 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I ride my genius mullet, love it, just makes me feel more in control...but am i imagining it? I'm a shortarse so a 29 rear smashes my backside going down steep drops / chutes (bad riding style?), but more importantly there is more mud clearance to the frame (and where I live it seems to be constantly muddy).

  • @SteveKeith
    @SteveKeith Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I would like to have a comparison of how the two pedal uphill. I know going down the mullet would be more fun, but if I can't get back up without any weirdness then that's a dealbreaker

  • @mtbohana
    @mtbohana Pƙed 2 lety +2

    I have the 2021 Meta AM and I'm going to buy the 2022 Meta SX frame and swap all my parts. Cant wait to see how it compared to the AM.

  • @richrider5884
    @richrider5884 Pƙed 2 lety

    I have two I play with... 29/27.5 HT Rockhopper and a 27.5/26 ST Rockhopper both are fun I grew up on mullets back when MTBs were just coming around. Remember the moded road bike frames that were the start of the MTBs?

  • @netwalker1986
    @netwalker1986 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Yes my mullet is sick on downhill trails and ultimate control in turns with 2,6 back ,but in technical uphills trails i need way to more efort to stick with my dudes.......but i dont care because when down they just cant see me!

  • @mtbyumyum
    @mtbyumyum Pƙed 2 lety +2

    I've been riding a mixed wheel bike for almost a year now. At 5'8" in the gnar I really appreciate the smaller wheel back there.... for most riders, it's more about moving from a 27" bike up to a mixed wheel bike rather than riders on 29er's mover down to mixed wheels....

    • @briannyob7799
      @briannyob7799 Pƙed rokem

      That's exactly the position I'm in. I'm the same height and debating whether to go full 29. I ride the tech/gnar of the North Shore.

  • @roybaty8550
    @roybaty8550 Pƙed 2 lety

    Excellent video as always from Neil. Makes sense to have a mullet for his height. I am 6’4”, 193cm so a mullet is not for me, I have never buzzed the back tyre. Full marks to Orbea for giving the choice. The Rallon with 160/170mm looks a top bike, nice and plush for trail riding and up for Enduro.

  • @bradl45
    @bradl45 Pƙed 2 lety

    WOW, what a test track, they have it dialed, no DUST.
    Thanks for the video, great content.
    I'm a noob, for now just a 29er in stock please :)

  • @swiatekx3
    @swiatekx3 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I understand people are upset over another wheel set up, but the more time you spend on a mullet the better it feels. It takes time to get comfortable with the different wheel sizes but once you get it dialed in you'll love it .

  • @frederikjacob1985
    @frederikjacob1985 Pƙed 2 lety +10

    I have went from 26 to 29. I have ridden a 27 (non boost) bike from my mate a couple of times. To be honest, I love my 29 setup really and I will stick to it.

  • @josesbox9555
    @josesbox9555 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    There was a mullet bike back in the 90s called the big hit. It was a 26/24 combo.

  • @ilionatroya7129
    @ilionatroya7129 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Loving my Pivot Mach 6 mullet! Neil
you looked more stylish flicking the mullet around. It just seemed more effortless for you.

  • @philrc1
    @philrc1 Pƙed 2 lety

    At 8:07, that's some retro 80's "working at it" music! LOL

  • @redbomberr4594
    @redbomberr4594 Pƙed 2 lety

    Nice one Neil. I'm the same height as you and I find I have more room with the 27.5 on the rear. I don't believe the bike in itself is faster, just makes me more confident.

  • @mickwilliams2053
    @mickwilliams2053 Pƙed 2 lety +6

    Really should have had a 27.5 front as well for a complete comparison.

    • @AvgDoomGuy
      @AvgDoomGuy Pƙed 2 lety

      that exists czcams.com/video/OmX7sQloVpU/video.html

    • @truantray
      @truantray Pƙed 2 lety +1

      None of this is remotely scientific and just baseless opinion video filler for a channel.
      True story: there was never anything wrong with 26" wheels.

  • @ish474
    @ish474 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I like running a 29" front on my 27.5 hardtail if I'm riding somewhere steep because it slacks the front end. Nice thing is I can only ride one bike at a time so I just grab my full squish front wheel and go.

  • @yermanoh
    @yermanoh Pƙed 2 lety +2

    and what happens if you put the 27.5 sus link in and then put on a 29 wheel, do you get less HTA and higher BB?

  • @9jmorrison
    @9jmorrison Pƙed 2 lety

    My franken bike was made by accident, and happy to hear your report.

  • @theshedMTB
    @theshedMTB Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I built a 26/27.5 mullet and everyone that rides it really likes it

  • @daggsusa
    @daggsusa Pƙed 2 lety +3

    I love this discussion and to get some real-feel feedback from a pro.
    Is there anything to a video about settling in on 27.5+ rear wheel and 29er up front?

    • @adamwoloszyn6405
      @adamwoloszyn6405 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      That’s my setup on an aggressive hardtail. I’m having a blast with it.

  • @TheBrokenMountainBiker
    @TheBrokenMountainBiker Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Still here on a 26" bike and only ever ridden on 26" wheels! Lol

  • @goodpools
    @goodpools Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I used to focus on the downhill more, riding dual 27.5+ e-bike tires on an enduro bike going down super rough trails. My bike then got stolen, and as a replacement I got a trek fuel, a 29er light trail/dc bike. I LOVE the 29ers front AND rear, it just climbs so much faster! I find that with correct body positioning and balance transfer, the 29er rear performs fine for me.

  • @bendatmo
    @bendatmo Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I love my Stumpy Evo that can run both 29” and mullet. I enjoy the smaller rear wheel and space to move around the back when sending it downhill and in the bike park. Prefer the 29” front and back when pedalling on my local trails.

    • @bigt43
      @bigt43 Pƙed rokem

      Hi, what Stumpy Evo do you have that can be full 29 or mullet?
      I have a 2012 HT Stumpy Evo, and I don't know enough to know if it would be worth trying a mullet setup, I can't imagine there's much I could change besides the rear wheel, but I guess that would lower my BB a bit?

  • @pschilder636
    @pschilder636 Pƙed 2 lety +4

    27.5 x 2.60 actually works quite well!

  • @TeamCGS2005
    @TeamCGS2005 Pƙed 2 lety

    I'm 6ft 2" and I totally agree with what someone else said in the comments regarding rider size. 29ers are the best for someone like myself, but my favourite bike that I own is actually a 650B due to its amazing handling characteristics. The mullet is something I will definitely have to try. I do have a Chinese 20 x 4.0 electric bike as well with fat boy tires, but that's merely for leisure.

  • @ggaattzz
    @ggaattzz Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Last year I converted my 29er to mullet which suits my 5'4" height much better especially on dh or very steep trails 😋

  • @timvos8779
    @timvos8779 Pƙed 2 lety

    I have not yet driven it with the mixed wheels. But I am thinking a little further on the practical side. If you ride tubles for the longer trips then you already have to carry two different inner tubes. I find that a bit tricky.

  • @alexmacleod9727
    @alexmacleod9727 Pƙed 2 lety

    was your seat fully up when you did the first piece to camera with 27.5 on?

  • @NerdsonDirtMTB
    @NerdsonDirtMTB Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I played with 297 set up an a number of bikes, the only one it worked really well on was the Specialized Enduro with the WRP mullet link, that bike was amazing with that change.

  • @jonnysnakes5417
    @jonnysnakes5417 Pƙed 2 lety

    I want to try mulleting my new bike
    Last rig was a 29er now on 27.5 again n miss the big wheels so tempted to swap the forks n see if it would be worth doin

  • @simonwoodthrillerwriter
    @simonwoodthrillerwriter Pƙed 2 lety

    When I was a kid (in the mid-late 70's), the thing to do was to put the rear wheel from a Raleigh Chopper on a road bike frame and replace the drop bars with "cow horn" or T-bar handlebars. The original mullet. :)

  • @Danstheman1357
    @Danstheman1357 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Havnt tried it yet, but I ride a 29er and a 27.5 depending on my mood. I just like both wheel sizes

  • @richardconnor4133
    @richardconnor4133 Pƙed 2 lety

    On a 27.5+ hardtail I'm finding 29x2.2 on the front and a wider 27.5x2.6 on the back gives me more traction and adds a bit of comfort too. I can run a less gnarly tyre on the back which seems faster and it seems to have slackened off the head angle a tad too...

  • @boralaser
    @boralaser Pƙed 2 lety

    I'm on the look out for a 27.5 rear for my pace rc 295. Want a second hand one just to feel it out before comiting to a decent one

  • @jimmy8x541
    @jimmy8x541 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I'm on a 29er hardtail.. truth be told I would have 27.5" but this was basically the only bike I could find in my area that fit me! And I'm impulsive and wanted to get riding immediately. No regrets. I'll go 27.5 or mullet when I get a full sus next year! đŸ€˜

    • @radidoc4832
      @radidoc4832 Pƙed 2 lety

      You can Mullet old 29er geo hardtails to get new better geo!

  • @jordi6795
    @jordi6795 Pƙed 2 lety

    In motorbikes/motorcycle world an equivalent configuration had been used since ages, it is the rule in MX/END bikes using a combination of 21" front and 19 or 18" rear, not the same wheel size in each end, so myself coming from and still practising motocross and enduro I find quite interesting this comparative, also when buying a new bicycle the first thing I do is to change brake levers side, that is putting front brake lever in the right side like my MX bike.

  • @shredgravity
    @shredgravity Pƙed 2 lety

    My 2020 Motobecane HAL Eagle has 3 three options.
    I set up the bike 27+ for fun. 29 for speed. I use mullet mode additionally when the wild need arises.

  • @stuartdavis7922
    @stuartdavis7922 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    I have a canyon neuron mullet, small frames come with a 29" fork, and like it but it a bit of a pain carrying different spare tubes when out on a big ride

    • @MassimilianoPerrella
      @MassimilianoPerrella Pƙed 2 lety

      You can carry a 29 one and fold it inside the tire in case you'll need it on the back. Motocross school never fails 😉

    • @stuartdavis7922
      @stuartdavis7922 Pƙed 2 lety

      @@MassimilianoPerrella Many thanks, I didn't think that would work as soon as you inflated the tyre.

    • @MassimilianoPerrella
      @MassimilianoPerrella Pƙed 2 lety

      @@stuartdavis7922 depending on the wheel or the tire it could... it would be nice to try (in a garage, not on a trail) :-)

  • @Steve-nu9op
    @Steve-nu9op Pƙed 2 lety

    curious what your time would be with 27.5 up front and in the rear. cool vid tho, thanks!

  • @craig6
    @craig6 Pƙed 2 lety

    Obviously not a fad considering this is the 3rr or 4th video GMBN has done on them spanning over a 2 year period.. they're here to stay and they're great fun đŸ€˜

  • @joseantonio-tv2ky
    @joseantonio-tv2ky Pƙed 2 lety

    I have a hardtail with 27.5+ (Orbea Loki -2017), but I will give it a try a mullet with 29"x2.5 at front, and see how it goes.

  • @markyp1965
    @markyp1965 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Going full 29er or even mullet isn’t going to work for everyone, especially so for shorter riders, like myself.
    Currently riding 27.5 and if I get a new bike in the spring, I’ll be going for the same set up of 27.5 front and rear.

  • @nickmassey9104
    @nickmassey9104 Pƙed 2 lety

    27.5 front 26 rear on my silly bike. 26 on play bike ..I'm waiting for 33 😆😆
    a few ppl needed Neil's explanation as to how it feels as it's a mind field which is best .each to your own big up to Blake for the wheel hire

  • @thingsivedone805
    @thingsivedone805 Pƙed 2 lety +5

    I used to ride a Gary Fisher 26" hardtail and recently got myself a Specialized 29" hardtail. I mostly ride fast flowing single track trails and it took me a while to adjust to the slower turning speeds of the 29". I'm used to the bike now and i'm fairly comfortable on it, but honestly miss the snappy feel of a smaller wheel size. I've even considered buying a 27.5. Happy medium?

    • @tonywilson5468
      @tonywilson5468 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      I'm exactly the same as you. I've ridden a 26" wheeled hardtail for over 20 years, then got a 29er full suss, and the difference is huge. The full suss 29er rolls over everything but isn't agile or playful, so I am thinking about going down the 27.5" route, not a mullet.

    • @thingsivedone805
      @thingsivedone805 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@tonywilson5468 that's exactly my thinking. The problem I'm having is 27.5s are getting less popular in my area so finding a new bike is proving to be quite an exercise. I spoke to the guy at my local bike shop and he recons the "well known, bigger brands" are all switching to 29ers and only boutique brands will still do 27.5s.
      Hope you have better luck than me đŸ€žđŸ‘đŸœ

    • @rogerdodger1790
      @rogerdodger1790 Pƙed 2 lety

      Love my 27.5, once it's new bike time I think I'll keep it and just get 29 then

    • @radidoc4832
      @radidoc4832 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      I mulleted my old geo 29er with 27.5 in the back and I like it more as it is slacker and stable on downhills!

  • @andrec.136
    @andrec.136 Pƙed 2 lety

    I am 6'2 with long arms and legs, so I naturally have more room with my full 29er. I prefer the look of a full 29er as well on my XL frame. I am not that big into jumps and whips anyway.

  • @peterfarnsworth5755
    @peterfarnsworth5755 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    SO I have a 27.5 Yeti and a 29 Stanton...... Wonder what it would ride like if I put my 29 fork and wheel on my Yeti 27.5? Would it mess the geo up too much??

  • @kylehagertybanana
    @kylehagertybanana Pƙed 2 lety +1

    seems like a great idea

  • @sgttoxiiczz
    @sgttoxiiczz Pƙed 2 lety +10

    Being a 26" rider, its sad to see 26" being eased out of the sport. I was recently shopping for tyres and i either couldn't get the tyres i wanted because they didnt offer 26 or they were out of stock.

    • @MB-rn6gh
      @MB-rn6gh Pƙed 2 lety +1

      maaan same. needed tyres recently for my xc 26".. found maxxis pace tyres that were being sold 2 for $50 at a city bike rental place lol they did the job

    • @buckroger6456
      @buckroger6456 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      This is a real fear for me since I just put on my last two tires on my 26 Mtb. I stocked up on tires years ago when the push to kill 26 was going on. I might need to see if I can do the same again.

    • @yanduval7172
      @yanduval7172 Pƙed 2 lety +2

      They might be out of stock because more people than expected are buying them. They seem to disapear very quickly online anyway.

    • @sgttoxiiczz
      @sgttoxiiczz Pƙed 2 lety +2

      @@yanduval7172, yeah, part of the reason I think is because the manufacturers just aren't making half as many 26" tyres any more because demand is dwindling. A lot of tyre models I was looking at didn't even have 26" as an option - it was either 27.5 or 29, and the ones that did have 26" as an option were out of stock.
      I mean I found some, but it wasn't easy and they weren't the tyres i wanted.

    • @sgttoxiiczz
      @sgttoxiiczz Pƙed 2 lety +2

      I think 26" will gradually become the new 24" Lol

  • @snowairland
    @snowairland Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Tallboy 3, 29 front 27x2.8 out back ftw!

  • @vangeliskarachalios
    @vangeliskarachalios Pƙed 2 lety

    How does it pedal with the mullet setup?