Singletracks3h ago

With so many new 32″ bike tires, the question is: Who isn’t making one yet?

BRR Analysis

At the recent Sea Otter Classic, a significant trend emerged with multiple prominent tire manufacturers unveiling new 32-inch bicycle tires. Kenda, Maxxis, Schwalbe, Teravail, and Vittoria all showcased models catering to this burgeoning wheel size, indicating a substantial industry shift. Notably, however, a few key players, such as Continental, have yet to commit to producing tires in this specific dimension.

This proliferation of 32-inch options signals a potential new standard, particularly within the mountain biking segment, following the previous transitions from 26-inch to 29-inch wheels. The industry's rapid adoption by major brands suggests a calculated response to rider demand or a proactive push to establish the next dominant wheel size, aiming for a perceived sweet spot between agility and roll-over capability. The absence of a commitment from a major player like Continental, however, hints at a cautious approach, perhaps waiting for market consolidation or further performance validation.

The 32-inch tire is no longer a niche curiosity; it's a full-blown industry movement. Whether it truly offers a tangible advantage or simply provides another option for the perpetually indecisive rider remains to be seen.

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