The 29er has more traction, seems to be a lot harder to fall off of. Rode a 26er full suspension for a year before I got the 29 ht. Short steep hills I could not make on the 26er I was shocked when I went right up on the 29er. Tight twisties take some getting used to. When I first went to the 29er I loved it but wished I had gotton full suspension, my legs got tired from having to stand up so much. Now that my legs have gotten stronger and used to standing up more I am happy with the HT.