Convert 650b to 29er or buy a dedicated gravel wheelset?

[Hugo Stiglitz]

OK currently I'm running Nukeproof 650b wheels on my gravel bike. The bike can take either wheelset.

Ideally I want a lighter wheel now for 80/20 Road v trail.

I've got a spare pair of new 29er WTB mtb rims gathering dust in the correct holesize.

Should I:
- swap rims, fit G One 40mm tyres.
Or
- Buy a 700c Hunt wheelset

Flog the Nukeproof wheels/tyres with their discs

[klootzak]

Depends on the nature of the 20% trail really.

If it's just light singletrack and rough paths then I'd probably go with 700c Hunts and 35mm tyres (G-One Speed if it's mostly dry G-One RS or Allround if damp).

If the trail is more involved, or likely to be muddy, go with your WTBs and something fatter. The downside is that they'll probably be quite heavy and draggy on the road.

Depending on the inner width of your WTBs it might be worth sticking some 35mm tyres on those to start and seeing how they work.

k