750d
So, here's how the story starts: I've got a buddy named Filip. Filip is one of those people who always seems to attract interesting and unusual things. I’m not exactly sure how he does it, but thanks to him, I got the chance to try something really unique – this silver bike.
You might be wondering, what kind of bike is it? At first glance, it looks like an ordinary gravel bike, but it's not. This titanium machine is special because it's got 750d wheels. 750d? Simply put, these wheels are even bigger than the usual 700c or 29” wheels that we all know. WTB came up with this concept sometime last year when they introduced a new prototype. I’m not sure how far it’s gone – whether this idea is still alive or has faded into obscurity – but if you’re curious, just Google "750d wheel size" and you’ll find tons of articles and reviews that go into detail. Here you go.
But honestly, I’m not really into technical specs; I care more about the feel and the experience. So no numbers, just riding.
To start off, let me say that this isn’t a review or a test. It’s just my impressions from the ride. Nothing more, nothing less. So please, take it with a grain of salt.
Right from the first time I hopped on, it was obvious that this bike is tall. I’m 182 cm tall (6 feet), and compared to a standard gravel bike with 700c wheels, I definitely felt higher up. Those few extra millimeters make a real difference. Specifically, 750d wheels are about 38 mm larger than 700c.
After just a few pedal strokes, you can tell the bike rides fast. When you really put your foot down and get going, it just flies. But! In the setup I had, it didn’t come close to being as fast as my Specialized Crux.
In the terrain, the difference was noticeable from the first descent. I’d compare the feeling to driving a tank. I didn’t have to worry much about where I was going, the bike just handled it. Big rocks, small rocks, roots, potholes… it handled everything better and more easily. But only until I needed to make a sharp turn or dodge something really big. In those moments, the bike felt kind of "nervous" and sluggish, and I didn’t get a great feeling from it. The size of the wheels probably didn’t help its agility, at least compared to what I’m used to on my own bike. I don’t think it’s a flaw in the bike. It’s built for these characteristics, just a note. Maybe it was also because I was sitting a bit higher than I’m used to.
At slow speeds, like when climbing or cornering, I felt a bit wobbly, like my balance wasn’t as good. I don’t mean that in a bad way, it was just... different.
Overall, I think this bike would be great for someone a lot taller than me and who can really make the most of these big wheels. I am just still too short for this bike, I think.
I tried it out on a bunch of different terrains. Smooth roads, rough surfaces, bumpy trails, dusty paths, wet and slippery sections – basically everything you can come across on a gravel ride. I didn’t go easy on it, and I have to say, the bike proved to be really comfortable. The larger wheels add more comfort, especially on rougher terrain.
Those bigger wheels definitely add more comfort (or at least that’s how it felt). Combined with the Redshift stem that was already on the bike, the ride was really, really comfortable. I’m not kidding!
Here’s my verdict or let’s say first impressions: the bike was unusual – and I mean that in the best way possible. I’m really glad I got to try something like this and see how larger wheels ride and handle. It’s an interesting idea that will definitely have its place, especially for taller riders. But as for me, I’m sticking with my Crux.
