26 INCH BIKES
26 inch wheel bikes are hard to come by these days. The jump from 24 to 27.5 inch wheels can be big so its great that some companies have stayed the course and kept 26 alive. Here we take a look at those 26 inch bikes that rule trips to school, soccer practice and light trail use.
Prevelo Alpha 5
Nice and light, lots of gearing (8 spd 11-38T), 152mm cranks and a great geometry frame. This is a tough one to beat for ripping around the neighborhood and occasionally ducking off to some gravel/light trails. Just superb.
Weight: 21.5 lbs | MSRP: $649 US | Min-Max inseam: 25"-30" | Where to buy: Prevelo
Woom 6
Great bike here with 150 mm cranks, 8 Spd Sram Gripshift with 11-34 cassette and 28 tooth front chain ring, adjustable stem and you get 2.0 inch Schwalbe tires. Kickstand and bell optional it comes in four color options.
Weight: 22 lbs | MSRP: $699 | Min-Max Rider height: 55"-65" | Where to buy: Woom
Guardian 26
The 26 inch wheel Guardian rounds out the line with the same Surestop braking system. Great for casual riders that want that one lever to actuate both the front and rear brake while limiting the over the bars scenrio. Steel frame, 7pds and great geometry make this a great pick for the 10-14 year old.
Weight: 26.8 lbs | MSRP: $549 | Min-Max Rider height: 54"-64" | Where to buy: Guardian
Cleary Meerkat 26
The Meerkat 26 is one of those bikes that you instantly love. Aesthetically beautiful, it stands out due to hydraulic disc brakes and an easy maintenance 5 spd geared hub. The robust steel frame should last a lifetime and great geometry with a low bottom bracket make it nice stable handling all rounder although it is on the heavier side compared to other offerings. Perfect 152mm cranks, front/rear rack mounts, tubeless compatible rims, and 1.9 inch tires (will take up to 2.35) are icing on the cake. Aimed at the 10-12 crowd.
Weight: 28 lbs | MSRP: $394 US | Min-Max inseam: 25"-29" | Where to buy: Cleary Bikes | Ready Set Pedal | Competitive Cyclist
Trek Wahoo 26
Nice hybrid syle bike with 1X8 spd drivetrain (11-34T). The alloy frame and build is light weight and a nice geometry for multi-surface riding. Quality V-Brakes, 1.95 inch tires and 152 mm cranks...well done Trek.
Weight: 22 lbs | MSRP: $549 USD | Min-Max Rider height: 57"-63" | Where to buy: Trek
