Many bicycles, including road bikes, touring bikes, and even some hybrids, use the popular 700c wheel size. If you’ve ever looked at a bicycle’s specifications or gone bicycle shopping, you’ve definitely seen the term “700c” and wondered what it meant. The wheel size is what 700c means, but there is a little more to it than that.
Initially known as 27-inch wheels, 700c wheels were popular on road bikes. As a conventional naming convention for this wheel size, the term 700c eventually took the place of 27-inch. Even if the history of 700c wheels may not be all that interesting, it’s still vital to know how this wheel size came to be so popular.
The dimensions of 700c wheels, the applications for which they are employed, and the benefits and drawbacks of this wheel size in comparison to others will all be covered in this article.
Understanding Wheel Sizes
It’s crucial to have a fundamental understanding of wheel sizes in general before delving into the intricacies of 700c wheels.
What Are 700c Wheels?
From road bikes to touring bikes and other types of bicycles, 700c wheels are a popular option.
Explanation of 700C Wheel Dimensions
With a diameter of roughly 622mm and a svelte width of 13–23mm, 700c wheels are a force on the road. 700c in inches is around 29-inch wheels. However, the actual size will depend on how wide the tire is.
The “C” in 700c bikes comes from the French system for sizing bicycle wheels, which is based on the width of the tire. This system includes other letters, such as A, B, and D, which correspond to increasingly wider tires. For example, a 700A tire is the narrowest, while a 700D tire is the widest.
However, the numerous subdivisions within this system can be confusing for both riders and tire/rim manufacturers. To simplify things, manufacturers reached an agreement to standardize 700C as the best size for road bike wheels. As a result, they stopped producing 700A, 700B, and 700D rims and tires. Today, 700C wheelsets are the most commonly used on road bikes.
Due to their bigger size, they are ideal for long-distance rides because they can easily glide over obstacles for a smooth and comfortable ride. They are also quick and effective for any cyclist trying to maximize their performance due to their small tires’ reduced rolling resistance.
If you want to learn more about wheel sizes, read the 650b vs. 700c tires article to get a better perspective of each of them.
Comparison of 700c Wheels to Other Wheel Sizes
In the world of modern bicycles, 700C is the most prevalent wheel size and the largest among the top three. The other two sizes are 26 inches and 650B, which is also referred to as 27.5 inches.
Pros and Cons of 700c Wheels
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of various sizes is essential when selecting the proper wheels for your bike.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| They are best for road bikes and other swift-moving bicycles because of their improved stability at greater speeds.Improved traction in conditions like slick roads or loose gravel.They can make the trip more comfortable since they can simply roll over obstacles.They are more effective for long-distance cycling since they typically feature a smaller tire than other wheel sizes.Due to enhanced stress absorption, larger dimensions might provide a more comfortable ride. | Particularly in confined locations or when making abrupt bends, a larger size can make the bike more difficult to control.Larger-wheeled motorcycles are slower to accelerate, which might be a drawback in particular circumstances.As a result of its larger size, it might not be the greatest option for off-road riding because it makes the bike less maneuverable and harder to handle.Heavier than smaller wheel sizes, which may be an issue for riders who value light bikes.Particularly for less standard widths, the selection of tires may be constrained in some locations. |
Where are 700c Wheels Used?
Typical bicycles with 700c wheels include:
- Road bikes: For greater economy, narrow tires are frequently coupled with 700c wheels, which are the standard size for road bikes.
- Touring bicycles: 700c wheels are commonly used on touring bicycles to cover long distances and rugged terrain due to their greater size and better shock absorption capabilities.
- Commuter bikes: Due to their adaptability and capacity to handle a variety of riding circumstances, commuter bikes frequently employ 700c wheels.
- Cyclocross bikes: The usual wheel size for cyclocross bikes, which are built for off-road competition, is 700c.
How to Choose Tires for 700c Wheels
To determine the right tire size for 700c wheels, there are two methods:
- Method 1: If you have old tires on your wheels, check the ETRTO or ISO markings on the tire wall to find a suitable replacement size.
- Method 2: If you don’t have old tires, measure the inner rim width and use a specialized chart to find a compatible tire size.
By following either of these methods, you can confidently select the right tire size for your 700c wheels and enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, 700c wheels are a well-liked and adjustable wheel size utilized in a variety of cycling disciplines, including road biking, touring, and commuting. They outshine other wheels due to their bigger size, which provides increased stability at faster speeds and improved traction in some situations. However, because of their bigger size, they may not be the greatest option for off-road riding because they can be slower to accelerate and less agile.
Generally speaking, riders who value speed, efficiency, and comfort and who prefer smooth rides over technical maneuverability should stick with the 700c wheel size. It’s crucial to take into account your unique requirements and preferences when selecting a bike or wheelset, as well as the terrain and riding circumstances you’ll be facing. For cyclists of all skill levels, 700c wheels can offer a terrific riding experience with the appropriate setup.
Also read: Difference Between The Front Wheel and Rear Wheel eBikes
