32" in the real world: Actual rides on a secret pre
The cycling industry is debating the potential shift toward 32-inch wheels, following experimental use by professional teams. While some riders see performance benefits, others are skeptical of the need for another new wheel standard.
Why it matters
This reflects the ongoing tension between technological innovation and consumer fatigue in the cycling equipment market.
The hype around 32″ wheels is real. That media frenzy stepped up again when Alessandra Keller (and the rest of her Thomus Maxon team) rode a pre-production 32″ bike from Thomus at the Lenzerheide World Cup a few weeks ago and immediately landed on the podium.
But what does a 32″ bike actually feel like to ride? Are the differences as huge as claimed? Is this something for everyone? Or just a weird thing for XC pros… and Neko Mulally?
After riding an unreleased 32″ bike for a couple weeks, I have thoughts. Sure, Geoff Kabush shared his better informed opinions with us r ecently, including thoughts on 32″ gravel. But why listen to him when you could read my long, rambling thoughts.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in