[Nick]

wouldn't that result in a stronger wheel build? I know, pressing questions for 2025 from a 27.5 holdout.
In theory, would larger diameter flanges result in a stronger wheel due to shorter length spokes?

 

[Toshi]

hub motors have large flanges

<ducks>

anyway, flange lateral spacing is certainly a consideration. thus Super Boost Plus and all that. this is also part of the reasoning (with availability/what was on sale the other bit) of why my commuter bike with 29" rims has 150 mm fat bike spacing up front. strongest wheel possible.

 

[Westy]

I don't think larger flange diameters give you much of a strength to weight advantage and I haven't heard of anyone having any issues with torsional rigidity. Spoke count and lacing options probably provide better benefits.

Flange spacing certainly increases with boost for better side to side rigidity.

Wider rims also arrived with 29 dominance. Old narrow rims on 29" wheels were sooper noodly.

If you are a fan of nipple twisting and have built up a modern wheel, you can get a better feel of how a modern 29" wheel feels. I didn't have a point there, I just wanted to say nipple twisting.

 

[englertracing]

Flange width effects bracing angle more than diameter
Flange widths have grown for example boost and super boost
Widest are asymmetrical hubs to be paired with asym rims.

 

[Nick]

My trail and dh bikes are 157 super boost and only 27.5. Perhaps that why I perceive such a flex difference in typical 148 boost 29” setups ?

 

[Toshi]

could be your Hulk-strength