When it comes to MTB wheels, the circumference is a crucial measurement, especially for the precise setup of bike computers, GPS devices, or cadence sensors. The 27.5-inch wheel size, also known as 650B, has become a popular compromise between agility and performance. In this article, you’ll find a detailed 27.5 inch MTB wheel circumference chart based on common tire widths, along with essential characteristics to help you optimize your off-road riding experience.
Why is wheel circumference important ?
The circumference of an MTB wheel is the distance traveled in one full rotation of the wheel. This measurement is key for:
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Correctly configuring a wired or wireless bike computer;
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Improving the accuracy of GPS data (distance, speed, cadence);
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Adjusting drivetrain gearing to match wheel behavior.
An incorrect wheel circumference setting can lead to overestimating or underestimating the distance covered, which skews your ride stats.
How does circumference vary by tire size ?
The size of a 27.5-inch MTB wheel is not just about the rim diameter (which is standardized at 584 mm in ETRTO terms). The tire width, tire profile, and even tire pressure influence the overall wheel circumference. A wider tire with pronounced knobs or aggressive tread will increase the total diameter and thus the circumference.
27.5 inch MTB wheel circumference chart by tire width
Here is a reference chart based on common 27.5-inch tire widths (in millimeters):
| Tire Size (27.5") | ETRTO | Approximate Circumference (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 27.5 x 1.90 | 48-584 | 2155 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.00 | 50-584 | 2168 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.10 | 54-584 | 2180 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.20 | 56-584 | 2190 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.25 | 57-584 | 2200 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.30 | 58-584 | 2210 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.35 | 60-584 | 2220 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.40 | 61-584 | 2230 mm |
| 27.5 x 2.50 | 64-584 | 2245 mm |
These values are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the tire model, tread pattern, and inflation pressure.
How to measure your wheel's actual circumference
For the most accurate measurement, try this simple method:
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Mark a point on your tire and the ground with chalk or a marker.
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Roll the bike forward in a straight line until the mark on the tire completes one full rotation and touches the ground again.
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Measure the distance between the two ground marks — this is your wheel’s real circumference in millimeters.
Specifics of 27.5-inch MTB wheels
The 27.5-inch wheel size offers a middle ground between the 26-inch and 29-inch standards. Key benefits include:
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Better maneuverability compared to 29-inch wheels, great for technical trails and enduro riding.
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Smoother rolling and more comfort than 26-inch wheels.
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Compatibility with wider tires for improved traction and grip.
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A balance between quick acceleration, adhesion, and obstacle clearance.
MTB wheel vocabulary you should know
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Rim: The rigid metal ring that holds the tire.
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Tire: The rubber casing (tubed or tubeless) that contacts the ground.
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Width (Section): The tire’s width (e.g., 2.25, 2.40 inches).
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Tread: The surface pattern of the tire that grips terrain.
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Knobs: Raised tread elements for better traction on loose or rough ground.
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Pressure: Air pressure inside the tire, affecting comfort, grip, and deformation.
A 27.5 inch MTB wheel circumference chart is a handy tool to fine-tune your bike computer settings and boost your riding accuracy. By understanding your wheel’s technical specs — including width, diameter, and pressure — you’ll ride smarter and more confidently. Always check your tire size and adjust your settings before heading out!
Looking for wheels, tires, or MTB accessories? Check out our online shop for a great selection of 27.5-inch compatible parts !
26-Inch MTB wheel circumference chart: complete guide for accurate settings
The 26-inch MTB wheel remains a classic standard, highly appreciated for its versatility and maneuverability on all types of terrain. Whether you need to set up a bike computer, calibrate a speed sensor, or simply understand the impact of wheel diameter on your ride, knowing the exact wheel circumference is essential.
In this article, we provide a 26-inch MTB wheel circumference chart, along with practical explanations of the key characteristics and specific features of this wheel size.
Characteristics of a 26-inch MTB wheel
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Nominal diameter: 26 inches (approximately 559 mm rim diameter – ETRTO standard).
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Versatility: ideal for technical trails, downhill riding, and cross-country.
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Compatibility: wide choice of MTB tires (generally from 1.90 to 2.50 inches in width).
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Advantage: quicker handling and greater maneuverability compared to 27.5” and 29” wheels.
26-Inch MTB wheel circumference chart (by tire width)
Tire width directly affects the wheel circumference. Here’s a reference table:
| 26” MTB Tire Size | Approximate circumference (mm) |
|---|---|
| 26 x 1.90 | 1995 mm |
| 26 x 2.00 | 2010 mm |
| 26 x 2.10 | 2025 mm |
| 26 x 2.20 | 2045 mm |
| 26 x 2.30 | 2055 mm |
| 26 x 2.40 | 2070 mm |
| 26 x 2.50 | 2085 mm |
These values are indicative. For the most accurate setup, measure the actual wheel circumference: mark the tire on the ground, roll one full revolution, and measure the distance covered.
Specific features of 26-inch MTB wheels
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Brake compatibility: available for both disc brakes and V-brakes.
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Stiffness: often stiffer than larger wheels, improving stability on rough terrain.
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Availability: while gradually replaced by 27.5" and 29" formats, 26-inch wheels are still widely available, especially on the second-hand market.
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Weight: generally lighter, which boosts acceleration and handling.
Conclusion
The 26-inch MTB wheel circumference chart is an essential tool for correctly setting up your bike computer and ensuring accurate ride data. Thanks to their agility and comfort, 26-inch wheels still hold a special place among many mountain bikers, whether for leisure rides or more demanding disciplines.
If you’re using a bike computer or a connected sensor, don’t forget to regularly check your wheel calibration to guarantee accurate measurements.
29-inch MTB wheel circumference chart: a complete guide to accurate bike computer settings
The size of your wheels plays a key role in the accuracy of your speedometer, GPS, or cadence sensor. For 29-inch mountain bike wheels, knowing the exact wheel circumference is essential to get reliable data during your rides. That’s where the 29-inch MTB wheel circumference chart comes in handy to correctly set up your device.
Why is the circumference of a 29-inch MTB wheel important ?
The wheel circumference represents the distance covered in one full wheel revolution. It depends not only on the diameter (29 inches in this case) but also on the tire width and the tire pressure.
Incorrect settings can lead to calculation errors: your bike computer may display the wrong speed, distorted distance, and inaccurate averages.
Using a precise circumference chart for 29-inch MTB wheels allows you to select the right value depending on your tire size—whether it’s 29x2.0, 29x2.2, or 29x2.4.
29-inch MTB wheel circumference chart (approximate values)
| Tire size (29”) | Circumference (mm) |
|---|---|
| 29 x 2.0 | ~ 2288 mm |
| 29 x 2.1 | ~ 2295 mm |
| 29 x 2.2 | ~ 2310 mm |
| 29 x 2.25 | ~ 2315 mm |
| 29 x 2.3 | ~ 2320 mm |
| 29 x 2.35 | ~ 2335 mm |
| 29 x 2.4 | ~ 2340 mm |
| 29 x 2.5 | ~ 2355 mm |
These values are for reference only and may slightly vary depending on the tire brand, the tread pattern, and the air pressure.
How to measure your own wheel circumference
For the most accurate setup, you can measure it yourself:
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Place a mark on the ground aligned with the valve stem of your front wheel.
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Roll the bike straight until the valve completes one full revolution and returns to the ground.
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Measure the distance traveled: that is your actual 29-inch MTB wheel circumference.
This method accounts for rider weight, tire pressure, and natural tire deformation.
Specific features of 29-inch MTB wheels
29-inch MTB wheels are now very popular in cross-country, trail, and enduro disciplines. They offer several advantages:
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Better traction thanks to increased surface contact.
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Easier obstacle clearance over roots, rocks, and steps.
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Higher momentum, perfect for maintaining speed on long rolling sections.
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Compatibility with a wide range of tubeless tires, wide rims, and boost hubs.
These features make 29-inch wheels the preferred choice for many riders, from casual mountain bikers to elite racers.
Conclusion
The 29-inch MTB wheel circumference chart is an essential tool for any cyclist who wants to set up their bike computer or GPS correctly. It ensures accurate speed and distance readings, while also adapting to variations between tire models.
Whether you ride with a narrow XC tire or a big enduro tire, adjusting the value as closely as possible to reality will optimize your rides.