I rode a Specialized Hard rock for 3 years (hardtail) This past year I bought a 29" rigid steel frame and fork bike, I LOVE IT!!! I do think I ride better now, it is because the bikle itself is a better feel so my confidense is better, also i am climbing stuff I never could before- probly do to better traction?
I was going to forget about my 26" bike all together but am now thinking about it as a s.s.
Don’t think I would ever buy a 26" bike again but who knows.