Front Rack vs. Handlebar Bag
The post below compares the advantages and disadvantages of front bicycle racks and handlebar bags. The Advantages of a Handlebar Bag All-in-One Solution (self-sufficiency) The strongest side of a handlebar…
Why Are 27.5″ Wheels Called 650B?
Condensed answer: 27.5" wheels are also known as 650b. Both names refer to the same type of wheel. "650b" comes from an old French tire sizing that indicates the diameter…
Are Geared Bicycles Faster Than Single Speed Bikes?
Condensed answer: The potential top speed of a bicycle depends on many factors such as gearing, wheel size, tire tread and frame geometry. All things being equal, a geared bike…
Track vs. Road Hubs
Differences Between Track and Road Hubs 1. Rear Hubs Most of the differences between track and road hubs are found on the rear and are as follows: Different Cog Systems…
Low Flange vs. High Flange Hubs
Definitions Flanges – The outer sides of the hub to which the spokes of the wheel are attached. A High Flange Hub High Flange Hub – A hub with large…
Bar-End Shifters vs. STI Brifters
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of bar-end shifters and brifters (e.g., STI) in relation to one another. Definitions: Bar-end shifters – lever shifters attaching to the ends of…
Are 26-inch Wheels and Bikes Obsolete?
Condensed Answer: The MTB industry has abandoned mountain bikes with 26" wheels in favor of 27.5" and 29" models. Consequently, it's difficult to find a 26" MTB with an up-to-date…
Downtube Shifters vs. Bar-end Shifters
This post compares the pros and cons of downtube and bar-end shifters in regards to one another. The Advantages of Downtube Shifters 1. Simplistic Cable and Housing Routing Downtube shifters…
Can You Put 29-inch Wheels On a 27.5-inch Fork?
Condensed answer: Some 27.5-inch forks have the clearance to accept a 29-inch wheel. However, the conversion makes the gap between the tire and fork's arch noticeably smaller. As a result,…
Carbon vs. Steel Fork: Comparison and Analysis
This post compares carbon and steel forks. The Main Differences Between Carbon and Steel Forks 1. Compliance In general, steel forks are more compliant than carbon forks. In this case, the…