Mullet vs 29 vs 27.5 is a big choice for many riders. In this episode we use Canyon's Spectral, their 150mm do-it-all trail bike, to dig in to the decision and put some real rider feel and data behind it. We took the Spectral CF8 in each of the wheel size options and put them to work under an ex-elite DH racer, an average rider (me) and a less experienced rider to see how they felt and how they performed against the clock. Tune in to hear our thoughts from this two day test. Day one was spent assessing ride feel across multiple tracks and day two was focussed purely on timing on one specific track. This was a really interesting experiment and if you're puzzling over which wheel size is right for you, then hopefully it helps in some way. Sit back, hit play and listen to this episode where we delve into the details of mountain bike wheel size.

Supporting Partners

Canyon

Canyon have just launched a full family of their 150mm do-it-all trail bike, the Spectral. It is now available in 27.5, 29 or Mullet setup, and you have a choice of an aluminium, carbon or CFR carbon frame. I've spent the last month on the 29er version and found it a great bike that's easy to get up to speed on, puts a big grin on your face and is super easy to look after. Everyone involved in the testing had a great time on the bikes, and it really is fair to say that we'd all have been happy to walk away from the day with any of the three bikes we had on test.

As a Downtime listener, with the promo code ONEFAMILY-ANYTRAIL-21 you'll get a free bike guard to Spectral AL, CF, Young Hero, Mullet and CFR orders (excl. Spectral:ON models and outlet bikes). Head over to canyon.com now and check them out.

Terms and Conditions:

This voucher code is valid online between 26 October 2021, 00:01 CET and 16 November 2021, 23:59 CET. The code applies a free Bike Guard to Spectral AL, CF, Young Hero, Mullet and CFR bikes and framesets. It cannot be redeemed in conjunction with any other discount code and excludes Factory Outlet bikes and framesets. The code cannot be applied retroactively and is available only on products available at the time of purchase. Cannot be redeemed for cash. Resale is prohibited. The code can only be used once per customer.

Podcast Stuff

Downtime EP

Downtime EP issue 1 is now available at downtimepodcast.com/ep. EP takes inspiration from the guests and topics of the podcast, expands on them, and takes them into a stunning print-only format. EP is the perfect companion for some quiet time away from the distractions of modern life. Beautiful to have and hold, and a timeless piece of mountain bike history.

What’s even better is that there are going to be two issues a year, and you can subscribe now. Just head over to downtimepodcast.com/ep and you’ll be able to save yourself £5 off of the cover price with an annual subscription for just £20 plus postage. You've got until 17th October if you want EP issue 1 to be part of your subscription, so don't hang about.

Merch

My 2021 Spring/Summer merch is here, including our first ever recycled t-shirts. If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.

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Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.

For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.

Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to subscribe. It’s free and means you’ll get every episode delivered to your device as soon as it’s available. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/subscribe. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. While you're there,