Melanie,

I want to do some xterra races and the bicycles I am drawn to are 29er mountain bikes, I love the feel and handling of this _style_ but will I be able to use this _style_ of bike for x-terra races? Is it allowed?

I bought a Gary Fisher Paragon 29er with Maxxis Locust tires, speedplay frog pedals a thompson set back seat post and a specialized anatomically correct male saddle. It has a combo of xtr and sram components. Im a medium _frame_ guy 6'0 and 190 lbs.

I believe that 29 inch bikes are legal in Xterra, but confirm that with the organizers rather than just going by what I say.

I think the 29 inch bike is really good for tall people who can turn the gears over, and the weight of the bike is offset by how much better the bike rolls over stuff. I have very limited experience with 29ers but I know Orbea has one this year and I am looking forward to trying it.

I am pretty sure Melissa Thomas rode a 29er at Tahoe and said it was awesome. So you may have something good going!