Fat Bike 26 vs 27.5 Tires: Side By Side Comparison

Fat bike 26 vs 27.5 tires, their difference isn’t that big in numbers but the performance difference is quite noticeable. 

There are a few significant differences between 26-inch and 27.5-inch fat bike tires. The size, periphery, traction, price, performance, and many more. Here is a side-by-side comparison between 26 and 27.5-fat bike tires. Hope it will help you get a better grasp of the topic. 

Features	26 size wheel	27.5 size wheel
Diameter	559 millimeters	584 millimeters
Periphery	163.36 inch	172.78 inch
Traction	Medium-high	Relatively higher
Stability	Almost satisfactory	Top-notch
Time for generating speed	Fast	Little bit slow
Cost	Adorably low	Little bit expensive
Riding snowy weather conditions	Satisfactory performance but might not be at its best	Better performance.

Physical Difference: 

Diameter:

If you go into more technical details, a 26-inch wheel will have a 559 mm diameter whereas the 27.5-inch wheel has a 584 mm diameter, it’s a clear difference of 25 mm. 

Periphery:

The periphery of a 26-inch wheel is 163.36 inches and for a 27.5-inch wheel, it’s 172.78 inches. The periphery of a wheel represents how much distance it will cover in one rotation. If two bikes with 26 inches and 27.5-inch wheels receive the same amount of pedaling force and complete the same number of rotations and are on the road for one hour, the 27.5-inch wheel bike will be noticeably ahead of the 26-inch wheel bike. 

Frame clearance:

If you have a bike frame and rim that can support both 26 inches and 27.5-inch wheels then a 26-inch wheel will give you more frame clearance.

Performance Difference:

A 27.5-inch wheel will have much traction, providing a little bit more stability and better performance. The only con of a bigger size wheel is that it will take you more effort and time to build up the speed.

The time for generating a decent speed for a 26-inch wheel is shorter than for a 27.5-inch wheel. Although the performance of the 26-inch wheel might be lacking a little bit it still provides satisfactory results. 

Cost Difference:

A 26-inch wheel has been popular among riders for a long time. It is relatively cheaper than a 27.5-inch wheel. A 26 Inch wheel may be available at $75 to $90 whereas a 27.5-inch wheel will cost you $100 to almost $250. Also, a 26-inch wheel dedicated bike, mechanical parts, and accessories will cost you relatively less than a 27.5-inch wheel bike. 

Watch Video: 26 vs 27.5 Fat Bike Wheelset

How 26 Compares To 27.5 Fat Bike Wheels?

26-inch fat bike wheels have been on the favorite list of riders for many years. The performance, price range, and adaptability all have been praiseworthy. However, with time most riders wanted to get a little bit of extra stability, traction, and performance. To be in the rider’s good book, most manufacturers are providing 27.5-inch wheels with fat bikes.

A 26-inch fat bike wheel with 559mm dia and 163.36-inch periphery is still a good and affordable choice. In terms of generating speed, it takes way less time compared to a 27.5 Inch wheel. As the width of the 26-inch wheel for fat bikes is usually 3.5 to 4.5inches. It can provide satisfactory traction and adequate

27.5 fat bike wheels might be a little bit costly but their performance is worth investing in. With a 27.5 that has 4-inch width of 584 mm diameter and a periphery of 172.78 inches, you will get better stability and travel longer distances with minimal effort.

27.5 inches being better doesn’t mean a 26-inch wheel is bad. Both perform extremely well and if you are tight on your budget, a 26-inch wheel for a fat bike will be worth every penny. 

6 Best Fat Bike Tire Brands

Here is a list of the 6 best fat bike 26 vs 27.5 tire brands. For most of the brands, you can find both 26-inch and 27.5 inches fat bike wheels at an affordable price range. Hope you can find the best one. 

Best 26-inch wheel

• Maxxis
• Surly
• Terrene

Best 27.5 Inch wheel 

• 45NRTH
• Chronicle
• Cake eater

How To Get The Right Bike Tire Size?

When it comes to bike tires, size matters. The wrong-size tire can make for an uncomfortable ride and could even lead to safety issues. Here’s how to make sure you get the right bike tire size.

First, measure your bike’s wheels. You’ll need to know the diameter and width of both the front and back tires. Once you have those measurements, consult a bike tire size chart to find the right tire size.

Bike tires are typically labeled with two numbers, such as 700x23c. The first number is the diameter of the tire in millimeters. The second number is the width of the tire in millimeters. Make sure you choose a tire that will fit both your front and back wheels.

Keep in mind that you may need different-sized tires depending on what type of riding you’ll be doing.

Should Fat Bike Wheel Size Factor Into Your Decision

When it comes to choosing a fat bike, wheel size is an important factor to consider. While some riders prefer the stability of a 26-inch wheel, others find that a 29-inch or even a 27.5-inch wheel rolls more efficiently over rough terrain. So, what’s the best wheel size for you?

Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision:

Your riding style: If you like to charge through rock gardens and plow over roots, a 26-inch wheel might be best for you. The smaller diameter provides better maneuverability and control when things get hairy. On the other hand, if you prefer long rides on groomed singletrack, a 29er might be more your speed. The larger wheels roll faster and provide greater stability at higher speeds.

Wheel size on your bike: If you have a fat bike that was built with a 27.5-inch wheel, make sure to pick up a tire size that is compatible with those wheels. Some bikes come stock with 29ers, so be sure to ask about the wheel size before making your purchase.

Terrain conditions: Although most fat bike advocates swear by 26-inch wheels for all types of riding, some experts recommend going bigger if you plan to ride fat bike in snow or deep mud. A larger wheel provides more stability and grip when conditions get sketchy. Conversely, smaller-diameter wheels are better for riding in softer conditions, such as sand and snow.

Check out these fat bikes for perfect for you to ride in sand

Tire size: fat bike tires come in different widths to accommodate a variety of wheel sizes. Check the tire size chart provided by the manufacturer to make sure you’re getting a tire that fits your bike properly. Ultimately, the wheel size you choose is a personal preference. What’s important is that you get fitted for the right tire size to ensure optimal riding performance and safety.

What To Look For In Fat Bike Tires?

When you are looking for the best fat bike tires, there are 10 things that you should take into consideration.

1. You need to think about what kind of terrain you will be riding on. If you will be riding mostly on paved roads, then you don’t need as much tread as someone who will be riding on off-road trails.
2. You need to consider the width of the tire. The wider the tire, the more stability you will have while riding.
3. You need to think about the weight of the tire. The heavier the tire, the slower your bike will be.
4. You need to think about puncture resistance. If you are planning on riding on rough terrain, then you will want a tire that is resistant to punctures.
5. You need to think about rolling resistance.
6. You need to think about tread width. The wider the tread on a tire, the better grip you will have while riding.
7. You need to think about rideability. Most fat bike tires are not designed for racing; they are designed for recreational riding. You want a tire that is comfortable to ride even at high speeds.
8. You need to think about the price.
9. You need to think about durability. The tire will last longer if it is resistant to punctures and wear down over time.
10. Finally, you need to think about the size. The size of the tire will determine the wheel size that you need.

First, you’ll want to make sure the tires are properly inflated. This is important because under-inflated tires can cause the bike to be less stable and more difficult to control. Secondly, you’ll want to choose a tire that has good tread for traction. This is especially important if you’re riding in snow or mud. Lastly, you’ll want to make sure the tires are compatible with your bike’s wheels. If they’re not, you could end up doing damage to your bike.

Who Should Ride A Fat Bike?

A fat bike is a great option for those who enjoy riding on trails and in the snow. Fat bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason! They offer a unique riding experience that is both challenging and enjoyable. Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about purchasing a fat bike:

First, fat bikes are best suited for riders who are comfortable with a more aggressive riding style. If you are new to mountain biking, or if you prefer a leisurely ride, a fat bike may not be the best option for you. However, if you enjoy tackling tough trails and obstacles, a fat bike can be a great choice.

Second, fat bikes are ideal for riders who live in areas with lots of snow. If you live in an area with little to no snowfall, a standard mountain bike will likely suffice.

Finally, fat bikes are not for everyone! If you don’t have experience riding in harsh conditions or if you find mountain biking difficult and challenging, a fat bike may not be the right choice for you.

Do I Need A Fat Bike With Suspension?

The fat bike does not need suspension, but some riders find it provides a more comfortable and stable riding experience. If you do decide to add suspension, make sure the bike is compatible with it. Not all fat bikes are designed to accommodate suspension systems, so be sure to research your options before making a purchase.

The first thing you need to think about is what type of terrain you will be riding on. If you plan on riding mostly on smooth trails, then a fat bike with suspension is not necessary. However, if you anticipate riding on rougher terrain, then a fat bike with suspension will be beneficial.

Another thing to consider is your budget. Fat bikes with suspension can be more expensive than those without suspension. If cost is a major factor for you, then you may want to stick with a non-suspension fat bike.

FAQ

Conclusion 

26 vs 27.5 fat bike wheels, both have been a popular choice for many riders. The 26-inch wheel was the most famous and widely available throughout the globe. In recent times, 27.5-inch wheels are on the rise. Although the difference in size, periphery, and other physical dimensions isn’t that much, in most cases 27.5-inch wheels have a performance edge over 26-inch wheels.