I’m looking to buy my wife her first mountain bike in the $1500 range. She’s very petite at 5 ft and 95lbs (153 cm and 43 kg), so this really limits our options. I’ve narrowed it down to the Liv Embolden 1 or the YT Jeffsy Primus 26.
https://www.liv-cycling.com/us/embolden-1-2022
https://us.yt-industries.com/products/bikes/jeffsy-primus/26/655/jeffsy-primus-26/
My concern with the YT is that it only comes with 26 in wheels. Their 27 in version is apparently too large for her according to their website. For those with experience riding a bike with 26 in wheels, is this enough of a negative to steer us towards buying the Liv?
She won’t be riding anything too technical. Just some blue and greens at our local mtb trails.
by Spend7
3 Comments
At 5 feet, 26″ is a positive. The bike geometry doesn’t have to be compromised to fit the wheels in there. Tire selection will be more limited but there are good 26″ tires.
I’m 5’0″ tall and would probably go with the Liv just to have more tire options (and fork options if you ever want to upgrade that). It’ll roll a little faster, which is nice on mellow trails. It might also come with a saddle that’s more comfortable for your wife since they design/market towards women. I had a Liv for years and it was a great first mountain bike.
I’ve ridden many bikes with 26″ wheels and they’re fine (and 24″ wheels in some silly rental situations, which is too small!) but given the option I’ll always go with 27.5″ – it does feel better in all respects to me.
Another vote for 27.5. Had a 2018 Norco sight xs and fit 4’11”. Used might be better as reach has really grown.