650c vs 700c Wheels

[PotomacCyclist]

I’ve only used 650c wheels, so I can’t compare them to 700c wheels. As for tires/tubes, while some stores do carry 650 tires/tubes, there aren’t as many options as with 700c. I don’t bother with looking for tires at local stores any more. It’s too much of a hassle. The last time I looked, I could only find a couple generic 650c tires, not the Continental GP4000 tires that I was trying to find. Now I just buy them online. (I haven’t had to buy any tubes yet.)

Fortunately, I don’t have to buy tires that often.

[Bill Hole]

One of my recumbents uses 650c on both ends. Tire choice locally is abysmal, but shops often have tubes hidden away down in the dungeon. I buy all my tires and tubes online, and there is a good variety available, including racing tires and some fairly robust tires for touring/commuting. As for performance differences, it’s hard for me to judge given that my 700c hybrid bike has wide, low pressure commuting tires mounted. Anecdotal evidence I’ve seen in forums is that 700c will be a little faster, but I doubt if the difference is all that great. Keep in mind that if you go to a smaller wheel, you may have some adventures trying to find brakes with the proper reach unless you replace your frame and fork with ones intended for use with 650c wheels.

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