The current mad world we live in means I cant finish my bike build as I cant get the 29er fork I want (well not for sensible money anyway).
I was looking at a 150mm travel for a Bird steel 29er hardtail but as a stop gap I have a 650b 160mm 2018 Lyrik ultimate. frame spec is 140-160 travel. I can fit the 29er wheel into the fork. Offset is similar, axle to crown isn't a million miles out and with no air in the fork the wheel doesnt strike the crown or frame.
The stock answer to "can I run it like that" is "NO. You'll instantly crash and die amidst fire, lightning, thunder and angels". Why I ask why......"er dunno. It's just not recomended. My mate said so" and not much better a response from the tuners and bike shops.
So does anyone know the science of why I'll instantly die on the trail running it like that?
If you're really really really sure the tyre won't catch on the arch at properly full compression, give it a go. The worst that can happen is that you like it.
Exactly my thoughts. Gotta strip one bike first so reluctant to do if i only end up putting it back together.
20yrs ago i was told point blank NO to Tioga Factory 2.3 with Bomber Z1’s. Similar crash and die stories. Resulted in an amazing bike to ride!
I presume the wheel / arch and or frame contact is the only issue? No contact = no issue?
Hopefully it’d only be short term anyway.
I agree, if everything fits then there's no issue. Forks come with loads more tyre clearance than they ever used to so it's not that surprising that a 29" wheel fits in a 650b fork. You might not be able to run a 2.8" tyre but only one way to find out!
