OPEN Cycle launches the OPEN W.I.D.E. 2.0: 66mm of Clearance & Plenty More

OPEN Cycle has announced the launch of their new W.I.D.E. 2.0 gravel bike, a decade after their original U.P. model debuted at Sea Otter. This updated iteration boasts a substantial 66mm of tire clearance, indicating a continued push towards capability and versatility in the burgeoning gravel segment. The release highlights OPEN's commitment to evolving their pioneering designs, maintaining their position as a key innovator in the off-road drop-bar market.

This launch is significant as OPEN Cycle is widely credited with kickstarting the performance gravel bike category with their original U.P. model. Ten years on, the market is saturated, yet OPEN continues to push boundaries, now offering clearance that rivals many mountain bikes. This move reflects an industry trend towards ever-wider tires and more aggressive geometry in gravel, catering to riders seeking greater comfort, traction, and confidence on increasingly technical terrain. It’s a clear statement that the 'gravel' definition continues to expand.

While 66mm of clearance might seem excessive to some, it’s a pragmatic response to the ever-evolving demands of the gravel discipline. OPEN, it seems, prefers to lead the herd, even if it means equipping riders for conditions they might not yet know they need.