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Another Angle on 29ers...
Imagine a skateboard wheel running over a series of 1" bumps. Since the skateboard wheel has a radius of only an inch, the wheel has to move 1" vertically in just 1" of horizontal motion every time it contacts a bump. This is an abrupt change, or high angle of attack has drastic effects on the rider's motion. With a 20" BMX wheel, that same 1" of vertical motion happens over about 4" of forward motion. This turns what was a radical bump into a mild annoyance. Now ride over the bump on a 26" wheel, and you have almost 6" of horizontal distance to spread out the impact. The bump is hardly noticeable. Not only does the bump disturb your riding less, but it also has less effect on your speed.
Bigger wheels maintain your momentum.
This effect is somewhat similar to that of a suspension fork, except that it happens on all bumps, regardless of suspension fork tuning. Tire pressure changes the effect somewhat, but with the same results regardless of tire size. Since riding off road is normally on less than smooth surfaces, the effect of a larger wheel is constantly enhancing the ride. If both wheels are larger, the effect works on both ends of the bike.
On the Fisher 29ers, you'll notice this effect in two ways. First, the bike will ride smoother and more comfortably. Second, the bike will be slightly faster, especially on broken or rough ground.
Like to put it to the test? Phone Nick at Croydon Cycle Works on 03 97235164 to arrange a 29er test ride. Why are we so keen for you to test ride? Because we think you'll be impressed. And at least then the next time you and your mates are discussing 29ers, you'll be able to say, "Have you actually ridden one? I have!"
| Frameset |
| Sizes |
SM (15.5") | MD (17.5") | LG (19") | XL (21") |
| Frame |
Platinum Series 6066 butted & hydroformed aluminum, cold-forged dropouts, G2 29" Geometry |
| Fork |
RockShox Dart 3 29", 80mm travel, 46mm offset crown, coil spring, turnkey lockout w/external rebound adjustment |
| Drivetrain |
| Shifters |
SRAM SX 4, trigger |
| Front Derailleur |
Shimano M412 |
| Rear Derailleur |
SRAM SX 4 |
| Cassette |
SRAM PG830 11-32T, 8spd |
| Wheels |
| Wheels |
Shimano M65 hubs, Bontrager Ranger disc 29" rims, 32h |
| Tires |
Bontrager XDX, 29x2.1 (53/51), tubeless ready, abrasion resistant,120 TPI aramid folding bead |
| Components |
| Crank Set |
Shimano FC-M341-S, 42/32/22 |
| Saddle |
Bontrager Race |
| Seatpost |
Bontrager SSR, micro adjust, 27.2 |
| Handlebar |
Bontrager Big Sweep, 600mm width, 15d backsweep |
| Stem |
Bontrager SSR, 10d rise |
| Pedals |
Wellgo ATB, boron axle, steel cage |
| Headset |
1-1/8" threadless, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings |
| Brakeset |
Shimano M415, mechanical disc, 160mm 6-bolt rotors |
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