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What are 650b Wheels?

The 650b wheel, also known as the 27.5-inch wheel, has become a popular choice among cyclists in recent years. Originating in France during the 1930s, this wheel size was initially used for urban and cruising bicycles. but it gained widespread attention as a versatile option for off-road, touring, and hybrid bikes. The 650b wheel sits between the smaller 26-inch wheels and the larger 700c wheels, offering a balance of comfort, stability, and performance. In recent years, its popularity has surged. particularly in the world of gravel riding and adventure cycling. thanks to its ability to accommodate wider tires and deliver better traction and control on mixed and rough terrains. As cycling enthusiasts increasingly seek a more versatile ride. the 650b wheel has proven to be an ideal choice for those seeking both comfort and performance on a variety of surfaces.

This article describes everything about the 650b Wheels to give you a quick overview of its specifications and usability.

650b wheel 1

What are 650b Wheels?

650b Wheels We can also call it a 27.5-inch tire, it is a tire size commonly found on off-road, bicycle, Touring Bikes, and hybrid bikes. The 650b wheels Are 584mm in diameter and are usually used with the 650b rim. This site has a wide range of applications for Different types of Bikes. When combined with tires, the 650b Wheels typically have a total diameter of approximately 27.5 inches. This site is favored for accommodating wider tires and providing better traction and comfort. and control on mixed or rough terrain, making it ideal for gravel roads, and expeditions. and mountain biking. And it’s designed to allow you to use wider tires.

650b Wheels Size and Specifications

650b wheel diagram

The 650b rims (also known as 27.5-inch rims) are a relatively unique size commonly used on off-road, touring, and hybrid bikes. The wheel has a rim diameter of 584 mm, which is about 27.5 inches when combined with the tire, so the wheel is often referred to as “27.5 inches.” But the “inch” unit represents the outside diameter of the rim, not the inside diameter. The bead seat diameter (BSD) is 584 mm, and the effective rim diameter (ERD) is usually between 590 mm and 600 mm, depending on the rim profile.

The outside diameter of the 650b Wheels varies depending on the width of the tire they are equipped with; generally. the outside diameter of the 650b wheels is smaller than that of the 700c wheels but larger than the 26-inch wheels. This outside diameter is usually located around 27.5 inches after the tire is assembled. The exact size of the outside diameter depends on the selected tire width and tire pressure.

The size of the 650b Wheels allows for wider tires that provide better traction and comfort on rough terrain. making the 650b wheels a versatile choice for off-road and mixed-road riding.

History of the 650b Wheel

The 650b Wheels were originally used for urban and cruising types of bicycles. and since the rise of off-road and station wagons, it has gradually become a versatile tire option. It is a size between 26-inch and 700C tires, designed to balance comfort with speed. The 650b Wheels originated in France in the early 1930s. and were popular for their versatility and ability to accommodate wider tires. In recent years, the use of the 650b Wheels in off-road vehicles and station wagons has been gradually revived. especially in the context of the increasing demand for wider tires, the 650b tire has become an ideal choice.

650b bike wheel width

650b bike wheel width refers to the width of the tire mounted on the 650b wheel rim. It directly affects your riding performance, comfort and grip. Because 650b Wheels are suitable for a wider range of tire widths, they are generally between 35mm and 60mm, or even wider. Here I’ll summarize the difference between widths for you:

  • 35MM-40MM:
    • Generally used for road, city, and light off-road riding, providing lower rolling resistance and higher speeds. This tyre has good handling and is suitable for flat roads.
  • 42-47MM:
    • This width is suitable for hybrid and traveler rides, providing good comfort and grip. but also maintaining speed and can be ridden on gravel roads and some slightly rough roads.
  • 50-60MM:
    • This width is suitable for off-road, hard-ground, and long-distance riding. The 650b Wheels of this width are better able to absorb shock and withstand larger loads. And has a strong grip.
  • Widths over 60MM:
    • Rarely used, tires of this width are generally used for extreme off-road riding.

How to choose the right 650b bike wheel width?

Choosing the right 650b bike wheel width depends on your riding preference, road type, and bike compatibility. But, the advantage of choosing a tire is that it can effectively improve comfort and thus better reduce the vibration effect. because the wide tire contact area is large and the grip is strong. This can reduce the risk of skidding and rolling, but it may also increase the resistance to rolling.

What you need to know is that there is a close relationship between tire width and tire pressure. Wide tires often allow for lower tire pressure, which helps to improve comfort and grip. especially when off-road riding, lower tire pressure allows the tires to better “grip” the ground and improve stability, especially on special terrain such as sand or mud. However, too low a tyre pressure can lead to a tyre bursting easily or adding too much rolling resistance. so it needs to be adjusted according to the riding environment, road conditions. and the advice of the tyre manufacturer to ensure the best riding experience.

Comparison of 650b Rims with Other Common Rims

650b vs 700c

650b wheel vs 700c wheel 1

The 650b and 700c rims differ significantly in their inside diameters-the 650b rims have an inside diameter of 584mm (about 27.5 inches with tires) and the 700c rims have an inside diameter of 622mm (about 29 inches with tires). This means that the size between the two is different, and the 650b rim size is slightly smaller than the traditional 700c. It’s not just better control and flexibility. But, as mentioned in the above article, the tire width of the 650b rim can support wider tires. so the tire width of the 650b rim is usually wider, while the 700c rim is biased towards the narrower tire. The size difference gives the 650b rims an advantage in comfort and grip, especially on uneven or off-road rides. The width range of the 650b tire is generally large, suitable for off-road and hybrid riding, and can provide better shock absorption and grip. The 700c wheel is usually used for road riding, especially in situations where fast riding and low rolling resistance are required. Because the 700c tires are narrow, they perform well on flat roads, but they are not suitable for extremely rough terrain.

The spoke triangle of the 650b Wheels is more stable due to the shorter spoke length, so it may be better suited for off-road riding in comparison.

Below I have made a brief table of the 650b vs 700c based on tire weight, pressure, wheel frame, profile, puncture protection and bike fit. Please see the table below:

Feature650b Wheels700c Wheels
Tire WeightTypically heavier due to wider tiresLighter with narrower tires, improving speed
Tire PressureLower pressure for better shock absorption and comfort on rough terrainHigher pressure for less rolling resistance on smoother surfaces
Tire ProfileWider tire profile, providing better grip and stability on loose surfacesNarrower tire profile, offering faster speeds on hard-packed surfaces
Puncture ProtectionEnhanced protection with larger tires, better suited for rough trailsAdequate but typically less robust than 650b due to narrower tires
Contact PatchLarger contact patch, offering improved traction on uneven terrainSmaller contact patch, reducing rolling resistance on smooth surfaces
Rolling ResistanceHigher rolling resistance due to wider tires, better for technical terrainsLower rolling resistance, ideal for long-distance gravel roads
ClearanceRequires more clearance for wider tires, which could limit frame optionsLess clearance is needed, and generally more frame compatibility
MomentumEasier to start and stop, better for technical sectionsMaintains momentum better on flat or descending terrain
GearingMay require adjustments in gearing due to smaller diameter and tire sizeStandard gearing works well, especially for speed and efficiency
Computer (Sensor)Slightly smaller wheel circumference may require recalibration of bike computersStandard wheel size for most cycling computers, easier to calibrate
Tire SelectionFewer options compared to 700c but increasing with gravel’s popularityA wide range of tire options is available, especially for gravel riding
Bottom Bracket HeightGenerally lowers the bottom bracket, improving stability but risking pedal strikes.Keeps the bottom bracket height higher, reducing pedal stroke risk

Which is faster 700c or 650b Wheels?

After the above comparison between the 700c vs 650b, understand the difference between the rim diameter, the 700c is faster than the 650b. Because the 700c tire is narrow and has less contact with the ground, it can reduce resistance and improve power and speed on smooth roads. But, on rough and challenging roads, the 650b Wheels may be faster than the 700c wheels because they are more stable. and faster because they are suitable for wider tires and provide better grip.

650b vs 26 Inches

650b wheel vs 26 Inches 2

The 26-inch rims have an inner diameter of 559mm, slightly smaller than the 650b’s 584mm, so the 650b rims can carry wider tires. Compared to 26-inch rims, the 650b Wheels provide greater tire capacity for improved off-road performance, especially on sand, dirt. and rough roads, where the 650b tires provide greater stability and comfort. That’s why the 650b Wheels are the first choice for mixed terrain and off-road riding.

The 26-inch wheel was originally used for mountain bikes and was suitable for off-road riding. but with the development of technology, the advantages of the 650b wheel in off-road performance gradually emerged. 26-inch Wheels are suitable for many classic mountain bikes and some older hybrid bikes. and may be helpful if you prefer a more compact wheel size for better maneuverability on technical routes. What you need to know, is that the 650b Wheels are more often found in modern hybrid and off-road rides, especially those that must both on-road and off-road performance.

650b vs 650c

The 650c Wheels have an inner diameter of 571mm (about 26 inches with tires), which is smaller than the 650b Wheels 584mm (about 27.5 inches with tires). The 650c rims are more commonly found in racing road cars and certain track cars and are usually suitable for riders who are lighter in weight or must lower rolling resistance. The 650b Wheels are more suitable for rides that require greater comfort, stability, and grip. especially in hybrid or off-road riding, where the 650b Wheels can carry wider tires, providing greater passability and comfort. Although the size difference between the two is smaller. the 650b Wheels are generally more suitable for off-road and long-distance riding due to the wider width of the tires. while the 650c Wheels are still more suitable for riding with higher speed requirements.

650b Bike Wheel Types

The 650b Wheels are versatile enough to meet different riding needs. There are many types, here are some more detailed 650b Bike Wheel Types:

1. Road type 650b Wheels

Road type 650b Wheels Main users of mixed riding and road riding. It is light in design and moderate in width, generally suitable for 650b Wheels in the range of 35-42mm. This can reduce the resistance and increase the speed. Usually, the road type 650b Wheels are made of aluminum alloy or carbon fiber material to reduce the Bike weight and improve the performance.

2. Off-road 650b Wheels

The off-road model 650b Wheels are suitable for rugged and challenging terrain, such as mountains and muddy roads. So, this kind of wheel is generally relatively wide, mainly in the range of 47-60mm or wider. The off-road 650b Wheels are sturdier than the road models, and the widened design gives them more grip and better shock absorption. Common materials include aluminum alloy and reinforced carbon fiber.

3. Travel Type 650b Wheels

The Travel Type 650b Wheels are designed for long journeys and daily riding. These wheels are hard, heavy, and durable. The general width range is about 42-50mm, and it is usually preferred to use durable aluminum alloy and stainless steel.

4. Competitive 650b Wheels

The competitive 650b Wheels pay more attention to lightweight and performance improvement in design. and generally use narrow tires for high-end carbon fiber or aluminum alloy materials. This reduces weight, improves performance, and is suitable for triathlons, and events. and various race options, and has excellent handling and fast reaction time.

5. Fat Bike 650b Wheels (Fat Bike)

Fat tire type 650b Wheels for snow, beach, and other extreme environment. Its wheel is very large generally more than 50mm, time-saving up to 80mm or wider. It has a strong grip and buoyancy, although the speed is slow but suitable for riding on soft ground.

6. 650b Wheels for electric bicycle (E-bike)

With the popularity of electric bicycles, special 650b Wheels have also been incorporated into electric bicycles. Covered tires have a strong load capacity and reinforced structure, and are very strong. Special wheels for electric bicycles are usually equipped with stronger spokes and rims to maintain stability during high-speed riding.

Click here to view: the Top 6+Fastest Electric Bikes for 2025.

What are the advantages of 650b wheels?

Let me analyze the following advantages of 650b Wheels, from my point of view:

  • 1: Comfort
    • When I first used the 650b Wheels, the width of the Wheels made riding on uneven roads significantly less jarring than the narrower tires, making the ride much easier. Especially on the bumpy gravel road, this tire can better absorb the impact from the ground. so that my riding is more stable and comfortable, and I am no longer tired after a long ride.
  • 2. Better grip.
    • On my trail rides, the 650b Wheels width showed off its sense of advantage. Especially on the path in Ning, it has a strong grip and a wider contact surface. On rainy days, I don’t have to worry about slipping and falling. At the same time, it gives me good traction and makes me more confident to challenge replicated terrain.
  • 3. Increased load-bearing capacity.
    • I like to ride long distances and sometimes carry a lot of equipment. The wider 650b Wheels allow me to distribute the weight better while giving me better support and reducing the pressure of the weight on the tires.
  • 4. Balance performance.
    • 650b Wheels I can maintain good performance on all types of surfaces. It’s between 26 inches and 700c in size, allowing me to ride fast on the road while remaining flexible on light off-road terrain. On city streets, the 650b tires roll well and speed is ideal; I can also feel its stability and comfort on country roads or gravel roads. This balanced performance makes me particularly fond of the 650b tire. especially for cyclists like me who like to change the riding environment.

What are the disadvantages of 650b wheels?

Here we go! Having said all about the advantages of the 650b Wheels, let me now describe the disadvantages.

  • 1. Relatively few tire options
    • From the above I believe you can see my description, there are many advantages of 650b Wheels. but I have to admit that in the tire choice, it does not have as many as 700c and 26-inch tires. Especially in some remote areas, I found that the range of custom and high-performance 650b Wheels available was limited. and the detailed selection was relatively small.
  • 2. Weight
    • As a cyclist looking for speed and lightness, I am also aware that the 650b tires are slightly heavier than the more narrow ones. While this added weight is not noticeable on a trail ride, I can feel the extra burden when racing or riding at high speeds. This extra weight may affect my performance when accelerating or climbing a hill. For cyclists who like to challenge speed, this may be a factor to consider.
  • 3. Compatibility issues
    • When choosing 650b Wheels, not all bikes are compatible. Sometimes I run into a lack of frame or front fork space, especially on some of my older models, which only fit 26 “or 700c rims. So, before choosing 650b tires, I had to check if my bike could support this size. If the frame and front fork are not compatible, it may be necessary to replace or adjust the parts. which is also a minor inconvenience when choosing 650b tires.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, 650b wheels provide a versatile and comfortable riding experience, particularly for cyclists who enjoy a mix of on-road and off-road terrain. Whether you’re tackling gravel roads, or mountain trails. or long-distance tours, the wider tire options available for 650b wheels give you better grip, comfort, and stability. But, it’s important to ensure your bike is compatible with this wheel size and to choose the right tire width based on your specific riding needs. While the 650b wheels may not have as many tire options as their 700c counterparts. their performance benefits make them an increasingly popular choice for adventure cyclists.

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