700c 32 tires vs 26-inch

[TrekTheKaty]

I hope someone corrects me if I'm wrong--it's been a long winter. However, the smaller the number, the skinnier the tire (when you look down, while standing over the bike). My hybrid came with 32's--rugged, great on gravel and very forgiving (I refer to them as my "tundra" tires). By changing to a skinnier tire, I got less rolling resistance and is slightly faster on pavement. They are also less forgiving when it comes to rocks and ruts.

My street bike came with 23's. I still ride on a well maintained gravel trail--I just have to be more alert of loose gravel, larger gravel and branches.

My sister feels more "stable" on her 28's.

I feel it is an exchange of speed vs. durability/stability.