For years I believed 700 wheels were faster and better. I've now
ridden my Marinoni from Canada to Colombia (11,000km) and the SLX
Handbuilt lugged Colombus frame has been comfortable - Brooks saddle,
no bike shorts. I'm carrying around 50lb of gear. The rear wheel has
received much attention and n
IMHO it's not the size but the quality of the wheel and how much abuse
it sees. Two of my touring buds have identical bikes, REI Safari with
26" wheels. One is about 1-1/2 years old, the other 3-4. Neither
rider is particularly careful. The older bike gets a trip to REI once
a year for service.
