Explore Our 32-Inch Mountain Bike Wheel Selection
Let’s be honest: mountain biking has always been about pushing boundaries – of terrain, of technology, and, apparently, of wheel size. We started with 26-inch wheels, which were fine until they weren’t. Then came 27.5, then 29, each promising to be the last wheel you’d ever need. Now, as if summoned by a committee of tall people and marketing executives, the 32-inch mountain bike wheel has rolled onto the scene.
32-inch wheels aren’t a Photoshop prank or a fever dream from the marketing department – they’re real, they’re rideable, and they’re already making waves (or at least ripples) in the gravel and mountain bike world. The pitch? Even smoother rolling over obstacles, more momentum, and – let’s face it – more attention at the trailhead.
Technical Tidbits: What Changes With 32 Inches?
Roll-Over Ability: Physics says bigger wheels flatten bumps. A 32-inch wheel makes roots and rocks feel like speed bumps in a school zone. Early testers say it’s like riding a monster truck, only with less exhaust and more Lycra.
Traction: More rubber on the ground means more grip, especially in loose or rocky terrain. If you’ve ever wished your bike could stick to the trail like a gecko to glass, this might be your ticket.
Geometry Challenges: Fitting a 32-inch wheel into a standard frame is like trying to squeeze a watermelon into a mailbox. Expect longer wheelbases, slacker head angles, and the distinct possibility of needing a step stool to mount your steed.
Weight and Agility: Bigger wheels mean more mass. Climbing? You’ll notice it. Tight switchbacks? Let’s just say you might want to start practicing your three-point turns.
Early Ride Impressions: What Are the Pioneers Saying?
The handful of brave souls who’ve ridden 32-inch prototypes report a mixed bag of sensations:
Plushness: “It’s like riding a cloud over a rock garden,” said one tester, before admitting he’d never actually ridden a cloud.
Speed: On open, straight trails, the momentum is undeniable. Once up to speed, these wheels just want to keep rolling – kind of like your uncle’s stories at Thanksgiving.
Handling: “It corners like a cruise ship,” quipped another rider. Translation: great for plowing through rough stuff, less so for tight, technical trails.
Who’s Actually Making These Things?
You can’t have a revolution without a few ringleaders. Here’s who’s currently rolling out (or prepping) 32-inch wheels:
Zinn Cycles: Zinn has released the Clydesdale Pro 32-inch carbon wheelset, targeting tall riders. They’re also working on a 32er hardtail mountain bike, expected to launch soon.
DirtySixer: DirtySixer just started taking pre-orders for their 32-inch hardtail and has plans for a full-suspension 32er. They’ve been making custom bikes with 32-inch wheels for years, especially for NBA-sized humans, and work closely with Vee Tire Co. for custom tires.
Maxxis: The biggest signal that 32-inch wheels could go mainstream is Maxxis’ development of a dedicated 32 x 2.4″ Aspen XC mountain bike tire, showcased at the 2025 Taipei Cycle Show. While still in prototype, it’s the first performance-oriented 32-inch tire, and Maxxis has sent samples to major manufacturers developing 32-inch XC bikes.
Vee Tire Co.: Vee has produced the T-Monster 32 x 2.4″ tire, used by DirtySixer and others for custom builds. While not officially tubeless-ready, it’s currently one of the widest 32-inch tires available.
And while the big brands (think Trek, Specialized, Giant) haven’t officially announced 32-inch models, the fact that Maxxis is developing tires and sending samples to “big name manufacturers” suggests that prototypes are being built and tested behind the scenes.
The Real Reason: Marketing, Not Mountains (Still True)
Let’s not pretend this is all about performance. The industry loves a new standard, especially one that requires new frames, forks, and tires. If you’re a fan of “future-proofing” your garage, congratulations: your future just got bigger.
Who Is This For?
Tall Riders: If you’re over six feet and have always felt like a bear on a tricycle, this could be your moment.
Enduro and XC Racers: On the right course, the momentum and roll-over could be a genuine advantage.
Early Adopters and Instagram Influencers: Because nothing says “ahead of the curve” like wheels that barely fit in your car.
In Conclusion: The Wheel Keeps Turning (and Growing)
Will 32-inch wheels become the new norm? Maybe. Maybe not. But if history is any guide, what seems absurd today will be tomorrow’s standard – or at least tomorrow’s punchline. For now, enjoy the debate, the innovation, and the inevitable memes. And remember: the only thing bigger than these wheels is the hype.
Want to see a 32-inch wheel in action? Or have you already built one in your garage? Drop your thoughts in the comments, tag us on social, and let’s keep the wheel size wars rolling.
