If you want a better tyre choice, lower rolling resistance, and to relax the head angle of your bike a little, and you’re on a 27.5+ bike, then fitting a 29er front wheel might be the solution you’re looking for.
Firstly, whilst 27.5+ wheels and tyres are a different size to a 29er, no one (at scale) makes a 27.5+ fork. Bike manufacturers simply use a 29er fork, because the height difference is 1cm or so. It’s not worth the outlay to them to have new lower legs and internals for what is now a minority wheel size. A decade ago, 27.5+ was being considered as a new standard to provide mountains of grip and comfort, but suspension technology has come on so far we didn’t need yet more standards.
But, that doesn’t mean your 27.5+ bike can’t benefit from the very latest 29er tyre and wheel specifications.
I have a Merida Big Trail 2017. It’s getting on a bit, but it’s still a great bike. I’ve naturally upgraded it, but the most noticeable change I made (apart from the razor grips and pulverising saddle) was to swap to a 29er front wheel.
Instantly the bike was a little more relaxed, a little more controlled on the descents, and more comfortable on my wrists. It also rolled faster than before, but I didn’t notice a change in grip in the front end. My theory is that the 27.5+ had too much grip for a front wheel. I was also open to choose the latest and greatest 29er tyres.
I have plans to see whether I can make a rear 29er fit as well, but may need to keep the tyre slim and low to keep clearance high (I live in the muddy UK after all).
So, moving to a 29er front wheel will work just fine on a 27.5+ bike. It will change the head angle, but if you have a friend with a 29er front wheel, that matches your fork dropouts, you can easily test out whether it would work for your bike in a few minutes.
The difference for me was worth the gamble or ordering a new Hope front wheel, and it’s been the best upgrade of many.
Hope this helps.
Simply Seanie 