Think big: The case for 32in wheels

Cyclist
Think big: The case for 32in wheels

What’s all this we keep hearing about 32in wheels?

For road and gravel bikes, the 29in (700c) wheel is pretty much universal, but there are a few voices in the industry suggesting that a 32in wheel could be beneficial in certain situations. Of course, bigger wheels means altering almost every part of a bike so there has been a bit of a Mexican standoff in terms of compatible componentry, but there are a growing number of brands producing tyres for 32in wheels, opening the door for experimentation.

‘Normally I’m on the side of the industry that’s more focused on solutions and making things last longer, not following trends,’ says Darren Baum, founder of Baum Cycles. ‘But on this, I think it genuinely improves rider confidence and feels faster.’

What are the purported benefits of 32in wheels?

The larger the wheel, the greater its momentum. Plus bigger-diameter wheels roll over bumps more easily (think about that shopping trolley pushed through the car park). Theoretically, the bigger wheel will maintain speed better as well as providing a more stable riding platform. Races like Paris-Roubaix immediately spring to mind. Yet while logic is there, the consensus isn’t.

‘Because we can’t test properly with compatible componentry, we can’t say whether they are faster,’ says BMC’s Jan Ulatowski. There is, however, some agreement that the potential upside for taller riders could be substantial.

‘It may or may not be more efficient, but for tall riders this is a no-brainer,’ says Baum. ‘A longer chainstay means we can increase the head tube angle, which equals more weight on the front wheel and more grip. Everything is more proportional and looks better too.’

Sam Alison, founder of Singular Cycles in Sussex, sells a drop-bar titanium bike with 32in wheels and says the advantages can’t be ignored.

‘The rollover and gyroscopic effect mean they maintain speed like crazy and roll through rough stuff that would have smaller wheels chattering around,’ he says. ‘The bigger contact patch gives greater traction in both cornering and climbing and adds stability overall.’

Are there any drawbacks?

You guessed it – they’re heavier. A 32in wheel is 10% bigger than a 29in wheel, which requires more rim and tyre material. Increasing the diameter also means the spokes are longer and have more weight to support, meaning they are…