What Exactly Are 700c Wheels
The term 700c refers to the size of the bike wheel, specifically the rim diameter. Originally, the number "700" came from the outer diameter of the tire, which was approximately 700 millimeters. Over time, however, the actual rim diameter was standardized at 622mm (measured at the bead seat, where the tire meets the rim), not the 700mm suggested by the name. The "c" originally referred to a tire width classification under the French system, which categorized tire widths into A, B, and C, with "C" being the widest.
Today, 700c is used to describe the rim diameter of a wheel, which fits a wide range of tire widths. The tire width can vary significantly, with narrow tires for high-speed road cycling and wider tires for gravel biking or touring.
The Actual Size of 700c Wheels
While the name suggests that 700c wheels should have a 700mm diameter, the actual diameter is closer to 622mm when measured at the bead seat. This is an important distinction, as the wheel size often gets misunderstood. The diameter of the rim is fixed at 622mm, but the tires that fit the rim can vary in width.
For example, road cyclists often use narrow tires, such as 23mm to 28mm, while gravel riders or touring cyclists might opt for wider tires, ranging from 32mm to 42mm or even broader. The ability to customize the tire width to match specific riding needs is one reason 700c wheels are so versatile.
The larger diameter of 700c wheels, compared to smaller sizes like 650b or 26-inch wheels, means that these wheels generally offer better rolling efficiency on smooth or paved roads.
The larger size allows the wheel to roll over bumps, cracks, and debris with less resistance, which is one of the reasons 700c wheels are often used for road cycling and long-distance rides. The size also helps cyclists maintain higher speeds, as it reduces the energy required to keep the wheel in motion.
What Does the “C” Mean in 700c
The “c” in 700c refers to an old French system used to categorize tire widths. Tires were labeled with letters A, B, and C based on their width, with C indicating a wider tire. Over time, the tire classification system became less relevant, but the term "700c" stuck around as the most commonly used size for modern bicycle rims.
Today, the "c" doesn’t have much significance in terms of tire width. It has simply become a standard designation for a 622mm bead seat diameter rim. While the French classification system is outdated, the 700c term is still used to describe a specific rim size, with tire widths now determined by other factors, such as riding style and terrain.
Comparing 700c to 650b Wheel Sizes
When comparing 700c wheels to 650b wheels, the key difference lies in the diameter of the rim. 700c wheels have a 622mm diameter, while 650b wheels are smaller, measuring 584mm. This difference may seem small, but it affects how the wheels perform on different types of terrain.
The smaller 650b wheels are often used in gravel and touring bikes because they offer more comfort due to the ability to fit wider tires. These wider tires provide more cushioning and stability on rough, unpaved surfaces. The smaller wheel size also results in a shorter wheelbase, which can make the bike feel more agile and easier to maneuver on uneven ground.
700c wheels are favored for their speed and efficiency. The larger diameter allows the bike to roll more easily on smooth surfaces, providing a smoother and faster ride, especially on paved roads. If you’re someone who spends more time on the road or on well-maintained trails, 700c wheels will likely suit you better. But if you're venturing onto rougher, more technical terrains, 650b wheels with their wider tire options might be the better choice for added comfort and traction.
SEE ALSO How to Check and Replace a Bike Tire
Are 700c Wheels the Same as 29 Inch Wheels
Another common question that arises is whether 700c wheels are the same as 29-inch wheels. While both sizes appear similar, they are not exactly the same.
700c wheels and 29-inch wheels have the same bead seat diameter of 622mm, which means that their rims are the same size. However, 29-inch wheels are typically associated with mountain bikes and are paired with wider, knobbier tires designed for rough, off-road conditions. These tires are built for traction, stability, and control on rocky and uneven terrain.
700c wheels are most commonly seen on road bikes, gravel bikes, and touring bikes, where they are often used with narrower tires that are optimized for speed and efficiency on paved roads or gravel trails. While the bead seat diameter is the same, the tires used on 700c wheels are generally slicker and thinner compared to the chunkier tires typically seen on 29-inch wheels.
The main takeaway is that 700c wheels and 29-inch wheels are very similar in terms of rim size, but they are designed for different types of cycling. 29-inch wheels are better suited for mountain biking, while 700c wheels are a preferred choice for road cycling and long-distance riding.
Why Are 700c Wheels So Popular
One of the main reasons 700c wheels are so popular is their ability to offer a good balance between speed, comfort, and performance. 700c wheels are widely used in road cycling because their larger diameter allows for faster rolling and less resistance. Whether you're riding on smooth, paved roads or tackling gravel paths, 700c wheels provide a smooth and efficient ride.
These 700c wheels can accommodate a variety of tire widths, which means that riders can customize their setup to match different types of terrain. Whether you prefer narrow tires for high-speed road riding or wider tires for comfort on gravel, 700c wheels allow you to make that adjustment.
Additionally, the availability of 700c components, such as tires, tubes, and rims, makes it easier to find compatible parts. Whether you're replacing worn-out tires or upgrading your bike, you'll find plenty of options for 700c wheels, making them a practical choice for many cyclists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 700c wheels are a great choice for a variety of riders, offering a combination of speed, efficiency, and comfort. The 622mm bead seat diameter is the standard for many road bikes, gravel bikes, and touring bikes, and the versatility of 700c wheels allows cyclists to choose tires that suit their needs, whether they're focused on performance or comfort. Besides trying the traditional 700c gravel bike, give the new trend of retro and kinetic energy combined with the Qiolor 750 watt electric bike a shot.
FAQs
Are 700c wheels good for mountain biking?
While 700c wheels can be used on some mountain bikes, they are generally not the best choice for rough, technical trails. 29-inch wheels are better suited for mountain biking because they typically come with wider, knobbier tires for better traction on rugged terrain.
Can I replace 700c wheels with 29-inch wheels?
Since 700c and 29-inch wheels share the same bead seat diameter, they are technically interchangeable. However, the type of tire you use will differ. 700c wheels are generally used with narrower tires for road cycling, while 29-inch wheels are paired with wider tires for mountain biking.
What’s the best tire width for 700c wheels?
The best tire width for 700c wheels depends on your riding style. For road cycling, narrower tires (23mm to 28mm) are ideal. For gravel riding or touring, you may prefer wider tires (32mm to 42mm) for more comfort and stability on rougher terrain.
