When you dive into the world of bikes, especially road bikes or hybrids, you’ll often encounter the term 700c. But what does 700c mean for a bike? Well, 700c refers to a standard wheel size that has been around for many years. It’s found on nearly every road bike and countless hybrids, making it an essential component for cycling enthusiasts.
Over the years, as bike components and standards have evolved, the popularity of 700c has been somewhat challenged by alternative wheel size options. Still, it remains important for its versatility and the fact that it fits a wide array of bikes. While new sizes are constantly appearing, 700c has continued to dominate for good reason. In some quarters, this classic size is being questioned, but it still stands as the go-to choice for most riders.
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What does 700c mean for a bike?
The term 700c is often misunderstood, leading to confusion among many cyclists. Some riders mistakenly confuse it with 700cc, which refers to the motor power of motorcycles. However, 700c is a tire size based on the old French system, where 700 represents the diameter of the bicycle tire, and the c refers to the width size. Interestingly, 633 millimeters is the actual diameter, not 700 millimeters as some might assume.
The c is not related to centimeters either, and it’s simply part of the alphabetical system that starts from a (the narrowest size) and goes to d (the widest). While most other sizes have fallen out of use, c stuck because it became so widely used.
One common mistake riders make is assuming that 700c and 29-inch tires are identical, but that’s not the case. Both have the same diameter, yet the width of the 700c is narrower than that of a 29-inch tire.
This can create issues when trying to fit the tire onto a rim, as the tire may not fit correctly. In general, 700c rims are suitable for tires ranging from 28mm to 35mm in width, so it’s important to consider both the diameter and width when selecting the right tire for your bike.
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What size are 700c wheels?
When it comes to 700c wheels, the diameter is typically 622mm from bead seats for the tire. This measurement is controlled by the ISO standard 5775, which is important because it ensures that any tire designed for 700c wheels will fit on any 700c rim. However, as many cyclists will tell you, the tight fit of the tire can vary significantly depending on the specific rim and tire combination, making it essential to check compatibility before choosing a new tire.
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Why c?
The “c” in 700c is a bit of a historical leftover, and doesn’t really denote much today. Originally, there were other sizes like 700a and 700b, but these names were phased out as the system evolved. 700c became the preferred standard for road bikes because it was easier for both riders and tire manufacturers to work with. The good news is that, unlike the old 700a or 700b wheels, 700c wheels were made to fit a variety of frames without the hassle of needing different tires for each rim size.
Back in the day, European wheel and tire makers settled on 700c as the best fit for improving road surfaces. As a result, they stopped producing other sizes like 700a, 700b, and 700d rims and tires. Even in the US, 27in rims used to be common, but they’ve since been replaced by 700c, following the same path as the older sizes.
700c and 700d were typically used for racing, while the wider 700a and 700b wheels were better suited for training on rougher, unpaved surfaces. All these sizes had a similar outside diameter of 700mm, but their bead seat diameters varied, meaning they required different tires to fit each rim properly.
700c vs 650b wheel sizes
When it comes to 700c and 650b wheel sizes, there are key differences that impact the type of bike and riding experience. 700c wheels have traditionally ruled the roost on drop-bar road bikes and are still widely used on hybrid bikes. They offer a narrower tire with a larger outside diameter, making them ideal for smooth, fast riding on paved roads. However, gravel riding has pushed the need for more versatile wheels, leading to the rise of 650b wheels, which are often used on mountain bikes and increasingly on gravel bikes.
The main advantage of 650b wheels is their ability to accommodate wider gravel tires. These tires provide more air under the rider, offering a more comfortable ride with better grip, especially on rough trails. The extra rubber in contact with the ground makes the ride more grippier and allows for lower tire pressure, improving traction on unpaved surfaces. Although 650b wheels are smaller than 700c wheels, they maintain a similar outside diameter when paired with a wider tire, helping to keep frame geometry and handling similar to bikes with 700c wheels.
One of the key considerations with 700c vs 650b wheels is their effect on frame geometry. Bikes with 700c wheels can be tricky for smaller-sized frames, especially those under 50cm, as they require specific head tube angles and tire clearances to avoid issues like toe overlap with the front wheel. Some brands, like Canyon, have addressed this by offering 650b wheels on smaller bikes to help mitigate handling issues and maintain the proper fit and geometry for a better ride. Riders can often swap between 700c and 650b wheels depending on their preference and riding style, particularly for gravel riding.
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Are 700c wheels the same as 29-inch wheels?
While 700c and 29-inch wheels might seem similar at first glance, they’re not exactly the same. Both are common in mountain bikes, and the two sizes share the same diameter and bead seat diameters. The 700c wheel is the European size designation, while 29in is the United States measurement, typically used for mountain bikes.
Over the past decade, mountain bikes have moved to 27.5in or 29in wheels for better performance. Though 29er rims and 700c rims can be compatible in terms of diameter, mountain bike wheels often have wider rim beds to support wider tires, making the two interchangeable in theory but not always in practice. This difference is especially noticeable in the tire width, as mountain bike wheels usually use wider tires measured in inches rather than millimeters.
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FAQs
What are the main differences between a 700c Cycle and a standard mountain bike?
The primary difference between a 700c Cycle and a standard mountain bike lies in their wheel sizes. A 700c bike typically has 700c wheels that are about 27 inches in diameter, while a standard MTB uses 26-inch wheels. This disparity affects their ride characteristics. The 700c Cycle is designed for efficiency and speed on paved roads, while the MTB with smaller wheels is built for off-road use, offering better maneuverability and control on rugged trails. These variations in wheel sizes give each bike a different ride experience.
Are 700c hybrid bikes suitable for beginners, and what should I look for in one?
700c hybrid bikes are great for beginners because they offer versatility and a user-friendly design. When selecting one, look for important features like multiple gears for different terrains and inclines. A lightweight aluminium frame is a good choice, as it provides durability without adding extra weight. Make sure the comfort features meet your needs, making rides smoother and more enjoyable.
Can 700c wheels be used for off-road cycling, and what are 700c MTBs suitable for?
While 700c wheels are commonly seen on road and hybrid bikes, some manufacturers make 700c mountain bikes (MTBs) designed for off-road use. These 700c MTBs are great for riders who want a versatile bike that can handle both trails and city commuting. They offer advantages like better rolling efficiency and the ability to maintain momentum over rough terrain and obstacles, making them a good choice for off-road enthusiasts.
