Custom Bike - 650 vs. 700 wheels

[ilima]

I'm so jealous. I saw her profile in Bicycling last year and I've got her site bookmarked!

I'm on the edge of either 650 or 700. If I bought a tri bike I know I'd go with 650s. I have 700 wheels on my Merlin--which I absolutely love. But--I also covet the Cervelo RS, which in my size (XS) comes with 650 wheels. And an 'ideal' STA of 73 degrees. And my Merlin does, indeed, look like a little frame in between big wheels.

I say fight the tyranny of 700c wheels! If small women keep accepting bikes with 700 wheels that make compromises in geometry there never will be enough of a critical mass for manufacturers to offer more choices for smaller wheels.

Pros/Cons of 650s
As to gearing, that's a non-issue as I ride a compact on my Merlin. On a 650 bike I'd use a standard crankset. Done.

Tires choices are definitely more limited. I've been riding Schwalbe Stelvios (purchased from TE, in fact) and I like all the color choices, but more importantly I like the tires. And they are available in the 650 size, just not in all the colors.

Is it really windy where you live? 650 wheels have less surface area exposed to the wind.

You can use 700c tubes in a pinch; just fold them over. Also, any shop that sells a decent number of tri bikes will have 650 tubes in stock. Tire selection probably isn't that great; OTOH, most shops don't even carry the 700c tires I want.

Good luck deciding.