Two 32-Inch Hardtails Go for a Ride: Our First Impressions

Miles Arbour of Bikepacking.com and Loren Mason-Gere of Astral Cycling recently conducted a field test of two 32-inch hardtail mountain bikes, following their debut at the 2026 Sea Otter Classic. Their objective was to assess if the theoretical advantages of the larger wheel size translated to practical benefits on varied terrain. The initial impressions, detailed in their report, included a notable "surprising discovery" after Arbour experienced a mechanical failure during the ride, though specifics of this discovery remain under wraps.

This trial marks a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of mountain bike wheel standards, a debate that has seen 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch wheels each vie for dominance. The introduction of 32-inch wheels, particularly on hardtails, represents a bold step, pushing the boundaries of what's considered viable for off-road performance. The involvement of Astral Cycling, known for its innovative wheel designs, lends credibility to the concept, suggesting a serious industry exploration rather than mere novelty.

While the "surprising discovery" remains tantalizingly vague, it's clear the industry continues its relentless pursuit of marginal gains, or perhaps, entirely new paradigms. One can only hope this isn't simply another iteration of 'bigger is better' without genuine, tangible improvement.