Can You Use 650B Tire On Your Touring Bike? Is It A Bad Idea?

Yes, you can use a 650B tire on your regular-sized Touring bike. It is not a bad idea for you. But there are some facts and issues that must be followed. Traditionally, touring bikes were equipped with larger 700C wheels and tires as it is known for their efficient rolling powers and ability to handle various terrains. But in recent years, there is a growing trend towards using 650B tyre on touring bikes.

Following that trend and after seeing one of my friends I’ve also installed 650B tires on my touring bike. Unbelievably, I got such good results that it’s fantastic and almost unimaginable. I think 650B tires have opened up new possibilities for touring enthusiasts. The smaller diameter and wider profile make it perfect for touring bikes. You can enjoy extra comfort, increased traction, and a more versatile setup with it.

Difference Between Regular Touring Bike Tyre & 650B Tire

Regular Touring Bike Tyre

The regular tire size for a touring bike can differ depending on the specific model and manufacturer. But the common tire size for touring bicycles is 700c. It is also figured out as 29 inches in some regions. This type of bicycle tire is the standard size for road bikes and touring bicycles.

The “700” part of the measurement refers to the approximate diameter of the tire in millimeters. And “c” indicates the tire is designed for use with a clincher rim. The diameter of a 700c tire is approximately 622 millimeters. This measurement comprises the tire’s inflated width. 700c tires come in various widths, ranging from 23 mm up to 48 mm or more. The width of the tire affects characteristics like rolling resistance, comfort, and traction.

650B Tire

A 650B tire is an ordinary size for mountain bikes and some other types of bicycles. The number 650 represents the approximate diameter of the wheel in millimeters. And the letter B is employed to distinguish it from other comparable wheel sizes.

Historically, bicycles manipulated many different tyre sizes, such as 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch that is calculated by the diameter of the wheel’s outer edge.

The 650B size falls about 27.5 inches in diameter and is approximately 584 millimeters. This type of tire gained huge popularity in recent years, especially in mountain biking and gravel biking. Again, many long off-road touring lovers also use this size tire.

Can You Use 650B Tire On Your Touring Bike?

Of course, it is possible to use 650B tires on a touring bike. But these things completely depend on the specific frame and components of your touring bike. You need to check & consider a few factors before making the transitions. If all those factors are properly matched, then you will get a better riding experience even by attaching 650B tires. In the following conversation, I am going deep about all those issues.

Frame and Fork Clearance

Your touring bike frame and fork must have enough clearance to accommodate the 650B tires. That’s why you must check this issue willingly. You may already know that a regular touring bike tire size is 700c whereas 650B tyres have a thinner diameter than regular touring bicycle tires. This 650B tire mandates extra space between tires, frames, and forks to avoid rubbing or interference in the cycling period.

Brake Compatibility

If you use rim brakes on your touring bike, then you need a long reach in the brake calipers through which the brake calipers can attain the rim surface with the 650B wheels.

Reach refers to the distance between the brake mounting bolt and the braking surface of the rim. But if you notice that the reach of the bicycle is short, then you have to install long-reach brake calipers to adjust these wheels. Do this properly, after that, you will not have to worry about brake compatibility even after attaching 650B wheels to your touring bike.

Wheel Size Compatibility

Your touring bike may already have larger or smaller wheels than the 650B. You can find 26-inch tires in your older touring bikes or models. Those are perfect for off-road touring.

The tire width for 26-inch touring tires is 1.5 to 2 inches. Width for 700c touring tires can vary greatly. But a typical range is 28mm to 42mm. In that case, before making the switch, create your touring bike hub spacing and braking system compatible. Here the 650B can be recreated with rims. Additionally, checking dropout spacing, axle diameter, and rotor size are also involved for disc brakes. If you can’t do this work properly, you may face some problems while touring.

Gear Ratios

Swapping to 650B wheels can impact your gear ratios. A reduction in wheel diameter results in a lower overall gear ratio. This demands adjusting your gears accordingly to maintain your preferable pedaling cadence.

Handling and Performance

Generally, 650B tyres offer boosted comfort and traction for larger volume and lower pressure. It can also handle rougher road surfaces and gravel paths which is better than traditional 700C wheels. However, they may result in slightly slower acceleration and a different riding feel compared to bigger wheels.

So yes, you can smoothly use 650B tires on your favorite touring bike but the above points must be observed. Only then you can enjoy a comfortable journey on your touring bike even using 650B tyres.

650B Tires Are a Game-Changer for Touring Bikes!

Using 650B tires on a touring bike can have several advantages. That’s why you can say that it is a game-changer for touring bikes.

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1. Extra Tyre Volume

You can discover a bigger diameter in 650B tires compared to traditional 700C tires which impacts a greater volume of air inside the tire. It also delivers better cushioning and enhanced comfort in long-distance touring.

2. Improved Traction Capability

The Vaster profile of 650B tires permits for a larger contact patch with the ground. It translates to inflated traction and stability so you can especially enjoy cycling on rough or loose surfaces.

3. Advanced Tyre Options

As the popularity of 650B tires grows, the availability of this tire has expanded. You can enjoy touring specific 650B tires with stable casings, puncture protection, and tread patterns.

4. Smoother Ride Quality

The counted tire volume and lower tire pressure furnish a more supple and compliant ride. It absorbs bumps and vibrations more effectively. It can also reduce fatigue and supply an overall smoother riding experience.

5. Improved Handling

Wider tires contribute enhanced cornering capabilities which is particularly advantageous in challenging terrain.

6. Clearance

Many modern touring bikes are designed to adjust with 650B tires which can easily offer ample frame and fork clearance. It also permits riders to employ wider tires without sacrificing other essential components, such as fenders or racks.

7. Bike Fit and Frame Geometry

With less diameter of 650B wheels, frame designers can optimize the geometry of touring bikes. The result of this is enhanced fit, handling, and strength. Particularly for riders with shorter inseams or those looking for a more balanced ride.

Bottom Line: Is It a Bad Idea to Use 650B Tire on a Touring Bike?

No, my friend, it is not a bad idea to use a 650B tire on your touring bike. Many touring bicycles are designed to accommodate different tire sizes. Because it provides versatility and adaptability for various riding situations. So, it is conceivable to use 650B tires on a touring bike very perfectly.

Naturally, 650B tires have a larger volume compared to 700C tires which can deliver an extra comfortable and stable ride, especially on rough or unpaved surfaces. The increased tire volume absorbs bumps, and vibrations and enhances overall comfort in long rides. If you do this switch with keeping in mind all the above-mentioned points, your touring will be more satisfying. Be Safe & Happy Pedaling.