With three wheel sizes to choose from it's best to find the size that suits your needs rather than becoming hung up on a diameter. Once you've chosen type of bike you want, look at the geometry to be ensure the fit works for you while the travel suits your riding style. Bigger can be better, but only until the travel reaches a certain measure. See the research below. Improved roll-over effect is the most prolific attribute when it comes to 29er wheels. The big wheels are great for rolling over nasty roots and rocky sections, essentially making it easier to ride these conditions. Improved traction is also a key factor with the increased wheel diameter compared to 26" wheel's as tire contact to the ground is larger. When discussing the pros and cons of the big wheeled bikes, shorter riders find themselves in an ambivalent situation; they want to benefit from the 29" wheels, but suffer from the negative effects when fit is considered. Additionally, the increase in rotational weight challenges many lower watt-producing riders, so the performance gains are negated when the rider cannot accelerate the wheel system as quickly.