Why Gravel Riders Are Moving to 700C Wheelsets

Is Smaller Actually Better for Off-Road Adventures?

Gravel cycling is all about versatility, comfort, and exploration. Over the past few years, more and more gravel riders are making the switch from the traditional 700C wheels to 700C wheelsets. But what’s driving this shift? Are smaller wheels really the better option for modern gravel bikes?

This article will break down:

What 700C wheels are

Why gravel riders are embracing them

Whether you should consider making the switch

What Are 700C Wheelsets?

A 700C wheelset has a smaller rim diameter compared to the standard 700C wheels commonly found on road and gravel bikes.

700C rim diameter: ~584mm

700C rim diameter: ~622mm

When you install a wider tire on a 700C rim, the total wheel and tire diameter can become roughly equivalent to a 700C wheel with a narrower tire.

Key Difference:
700C wheels allow much wider tires while maintaining similar geometry and bike handling.

Why Gravel Riders Are Switching to 700C

1. More Tire Clearance, Bigger Volume

700C wheels allow gravel riders to run massive tires (45mm–50mm or wider) without altering frame geometry.

Benefits:

Better comfort on rough terrain

Increased traction on loose gravel, mud, and dirt

More stability and control

2. Lower Tire Pressure = More Comfort

Wider tires allow lower air pressures:

Smoother ride over rocks, bumps, and washboard roads

Less rider fatigue on long gravel rides

Tubeless setups at low PSI further enhance the comfort and grip.

3. Improved Agility and Handling

The smaller wheel diameter improves:

Low-speed maneuverability

Cornering on technical trails

Quick direction changes

This is perfect for mixed surfaces, forest paths, or twisty gravel routes.

4. Better for Bikepacking

When carrying heavy loads, the larger tire volume of 700C setups can better absorb the extra weight. This reduces the risk of pinch flats and offers a more stable ride, making it ideal for multi-day bikepacking trips.

5. More Adventure-Ready

Gravel riders who love off-road exploration, singletrack detours, and aggressive trail riding tend to prefer 700C wheelsets because:

They can safely ride tougher terrain

They get extra grip and security when descending on loose surfaces

Are There Downsides to 700C?

While 700C offers many off-road advantages, there are a few trade-offs:

Less efficient on smooth pavement: Wider tires mean more rolling resistance.

Lower top-end speed: 700C wheels with narrower tires will generally roll faster on asphalt.

Limited tire availability: Some road-focused tires aren’t made for 700C sizes.

If your riding is mostly on paved roads or smooth gravel, you may prefer sticking with 700C wheels.

Should You Switch to 700C?

Consider switching to 700C if:

You regularly ride rough gravel, singletrack, or technical trails

You prioritize comfort and control over pure speed

You are a bikepacker who needs extra traction with a loaded bike

You want to run wider tires at low pressures

Stick with 700C if:

You ride mostly fast gravel and paved roads

You prioritize speed and road efficiency

Your frame has limited clearance for 700C tires

Final Thoughts: More Riders, More Freedom

The rising popularity of 700C gravel wheelsets is driven by a simple idea: more freedom to ride anywhere, with more comfort and confidence. For riders who value versatility and exploration, 700C opens up new terrain without sacrificing handling or safety.

At Superteam, we offer 700c carbon gravel wheelsets that are tubeless-ready, lightweight, and built for adventure — whether you’re cruising dusty backroads or bikepacking across rugged landscapes.