Electric Bike Wheel Sizes Explained
A straightforward guide to the most common e-bike wheel sizes, what the different names mean, and how each size affects the ride.
Wheel sizes vary depending on the type of electric bike and sometimes the frame size too.
To make things more confusing, some wheel sizes are known by two different names even though they are actually the same size.
This guide explains the main options, where you are likely to find them, and the pros and cons of each.
Smaller wheels tend to feel more compact and manoeuvrable. Larger wheels tend to roll more smoothly and feel more stable over rough ground.
16", 20" and 24"
These smaller wheel sizes are most commonly found on folding electric bikes, compact bikes and some cargo models.
On folding and compact bikes, smaller wheels help reduce the overall footprint and make the bike easier to store and transport. On cargo bikes, they are often used for added strength and stability under heavier loads.
These bikes are generally best suited to harder surfaces such as tarmac, compacted gravel and smoother paths rather than rough off-road terrain.
26"
This used to be the default wheel size for mountain bikes and many leisure bikes, but it is now much less common.
Today, 26" wheels are usually seen on the smallest frame sizes or older models. Because the wheel diameter is smaller, the overall bike can feel slightly lower and more manageable for shorter riders.
Many manufacturers have now moved away from 26" wheels in favour of 27.5" options instead.
27.5" or 650b
27.5" and 650b refer to the same wheel size. This is now a very common option on hardtail electric mountain bikes, full suspension eMTBs, and some leisure and trekking bikes.
It sits between 26" and 29", offering a nice balance of agility and rollover ability. On smaller frame sizes, it is often used to keep the overall bike proportions feeling right.
In general, a 27.5" wheel can make a bike feel more nimble and easier to handle on tighter, twistier trails.
29" or 700c
29" and 700c are also the same wheel diameter. The name usually depends on the bike type. 29" is more commonly used when talking about mountain bikes, while 700c is more common on road and gravel electric bikes and many hybrid and leisure e-bikes.
Although the diameter is the same, mountain bike rims are typically wider so they can take much larger volume tyres.
Bigger wheels usually create a longer wheelbase, so the bike may feel a little less nimble than a smaller-wheeled equivalent. In return, they tend to roll over bumps more smoothly and carry momentum better.
On road and gravel bikes, 700c is by far the most common standard, so there is usually little or no choice in wheel size.
Many Cube leisure electric bikes use 29" wheels, which can make them feel larger than some equivalent models from other brands. If you are unsure what size bike will suit you, our team will be happy to help.
Need help choosing the right setup?
If you are unsure which wheel size will suit you best, book a test ride or speak to the team for straightforward advice.