MTB wheel sizes for a teenager’s bike

[Gareth1974]

I’m looking to get a mountain bike for my son, he’s 5ft 6” tall.

I can select a 27.5 or 29 inch wheel option, is the smaller size likely to be easier to handle for him, or doesn’t it really matter?

[vwsurfbum]

27.5 at that height at the moment.

[moonigan]

Serious question:
Is it for crusing around with his mates pulling wheelies or does he intend to use it for semi serious purposes?

[Gareth1974]

He’s got a BMX he rides with mates, this would be for rides on forest trails and on the roads for a few miles to get there.

[moonigan]

I'm 5ft 8 and I ride a 29er so if he's still growing then dont rule out a 29er. They roll faster and initally feel less agile but you soon get used to them. What bikes are you looking at?

[Gareth1974]

A Scott Aspect which I can get from my local shop as 29, or mail order 27.5.

Edited by Gareth1974 on Wednesday 6th May 12:29