700c wheels on a 29er frame?

Question

Can I build a 29er frame/fork with 700c wheels? Assuming of course dropouts and axles are compatible. I've gotten mixed messages as far as this issue goes. I've heard that 29ers are basically running 700c wheels with big, fat tires. And I've also heard that they're completely different. I'm looking to build a mostly urban bike with big wheels for lots of roll, but has the more burley feel of a mountain bike.

Answer 1

Yes you can do that it will work perfectly.  That is another reason to get a 29er.

Answer 2

If you have disk brakes, yes. I believe that's what some of the Gary Fishers have.

Answer 3

Yep....the rims are the same size.  If you were to lace a mountain rear hub (135mm) to a 700c rim, you could do what you're wanting to do (if I'm understanding you correctly).    Just go extremely easy on xc trails if you happen to take your 700c rims out on them.  One of our local riders did this same thing while experimenting with the 29er craze last year.  His 700c's actually fit on a 26" frame, and then he transferred them to a 29er frame for a bit while he was messing around with wheel/tire selection.  

One thing I'm not sure of is whether or not you can mount a 700c tire to a 29er rim....there may be problems due to the sidewall height of the 29ers.   But framewise, you can mix and match the two as long as the hub/axle width works with the frame you're putting the wheels in.  

Have fun!   :o)