There are a lot of wheel sizes available when choosing a mountain bike. From 24” – 29”, you will find bikes that are hardtail, full suspension and perfect for trail riding, cross country or hitting the bike park.

Many riders are choosing to have the best of both worlds with a 27.5 wheel size. This is the perfect compromise between the common 26” models and the preferred 29” models. If you do not know if a 27.5 is right for you, let’s take a closer look at what this wheel size means before we reveal the best 27.5 mountain bike models on the market today.

Why Choose a 27.5 Size?

There are a few benefits and drawbacks to choosing a 27.5” wheel size over its 26- and 29-inch counterparts. Let’s take a look at both:

• A 27.5” size provides a lighter weight than a 29er.
• The 27.5” can traverse rougher terrain than a 26”.
• A 27.5” is better suited for average height riders. If you’re a tall rider check out the best 29er mountain bike post.
• The 27.5” is more versatile for the aggressive rider.
• A 27.5” has more responsive handling thanks to the smaller bottom bracket.
• Turns are easier with a 27.5” wheel size due to the shorter chainstays.

The 27.5 is really about compromise. The lighter weight and better handling allow this bike to be rode on trails or even at bike parks. While the 29er may still rule in the world of rough terrain, there are many perks that will have riders switching to the versatility that a 27.5 provides.

Our Top 3 Picks for the Best 27.5 Mountain Bike

1.      Vitus Bikes Escarpe 275 Suspension Bike 2014

The Vitus Escarpe 275 comes with the 27.5” (650b) wheel size along with a myriad of features and specifications bikers will love. Meant for the rider who hits the trail, enjoys long distance riding, or cross-country, this 27.5 features the following:

• A full suspension design for the utmost in handling.
• Shimano shifters, derailleurs and cassette.
• Formula disc brakes.
• A weight of 14.4kg.
• 27 speeds.
• Alloy material.

The Escarpe is the best bike on our list and comes with continental tires and Shimano gears. Along with a Suntour fork and full suspension, this bike will allow you to ride for hours with the utmost in comfort.

2.      Cube Fritzz 160 Pro 27.5 Suspension Bike 2014

The Cube Fritzz price makes it land at number 2 on our list, but this does not mean the Fritzz 160 Pro does not deserve serious consideration. This bike features:

• An aluminum frame.
• A full suspension.
• Shimano chainset, brake and shifter and derailleurs.
• A weight of 13.8 kg.

This bike has many advanced features as well, such as efficient trail control, sophisticated suspension, agile ride geometry and even trail motion rocket. For serious mountain bikers, this would be the optimal choice on our list.

3.      Vitus Bikes Nucleus 275 Hardtail Bike 2014

This is the best 27.5 mountain bike when on a budget. While this bike cannot compare to the other two models on our list, it does feature a beautiful design, hardtail suspension and a lot of other great features for the novice to intermediate rider. These features include:

• A hardtail suspension.
• 27 speeds.
• Mechanical formed aluminum frame.
• Shimano chain, cassette, derailleurs and shift levers.
• Continental X-King tires.
• Hydraulic disc brakes.
• A weight of 13.6 kg.

The Nucleus 275 will be the bike to choose for teens, first-time owners or the casual rider that simply cannot afford the other models on our list. With Shimano parts, hydraulic disc brakes and 27.5” wheel size, this is a great bike for trails, cross-country and even park riding.