Getting the right-size mountain bike tire is important to your safety and performance. Knowing the wheel size will help you do this and save you time, money and hassles from getting the wrong size. Fortunately, measuring a mountain bike wheel is simple and takes less than one minute.
Definition
The wheel size of a mountain bike is defined as the diameter of the wheel with the tire in place. Because mountain bike tires are relatively thick, you must have the tires on in order to get an accurate measurement. For example, a 26-inch wheel might only measure 24 inches without the tire. This makes a big difference in obtaining an accurate size.
Measuring
Use a tape measure and measure the diameter of the wheel across the middle. Be sure that the tape measure goes directly over the center of the wheel and measures from the outside of the tire on both sides.
Rims
Another option in determining the size of the mountain bike wheel is to look at the wheel rim. The size is usually stated there. For example, if the mountain bike rim reads 26" X 1.5", this means that the wheel is 26 inches and the tires are 1.5 inches.
Sizes
Once you have looked at enough mountain bikes, you can usually tell the wheel size by looking at it. A 26-inch wheel is the most common size on a mountain bike. Some will come with 29-inch wheels, which are noticeably bigger. However, different manufacturers may vary wheel sizes, so if you want an accurate measurement, don't rely on a visual scan only.
Considerations
If you cannot read the wheel rim or are not confident in measuring the wheel on your own, take your mountain bike to a bike shop. The salespeople can help you measure and identify the correct wheel size. When purchasing new tires for your bike, it is important to have an accurate measurement, and bike shops can be an easy way to do that.
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