I’ve been reading a few threads, both on this forum and elsewhere, just lately about 29ers.

Quite some time ago, I had a set of wheels built up using Mavic Open Pro 700c rims, Hope Pro 2 hubs, an Ultegra 9spd cassette (11-21, I think) and Specialized Mondo Pro 23c tyres. I’ve been using these for commuting on my 26″ hardtail (first the one that got nicked, and now it’s replacement) for several years with no clearance or handling problems whatsoever, obviously the brakes line up fine too as they’re discs.

So, have I actually been riding a 29er all this time without realising it?

effectively, yes.

although most 29ers don’tt run 23c click tyres, tbh…

Not exactly as the external circumference of a 700C isn’t too different to that of a 26″ mtb tyre.

Not exactly as the external circumference of a 700C isn’t too different to that of a 26″ mtb tyre.

This, a 29er tyre is going to be at least 2″ taller than this.