"We received initial information at Eurobike and then gradually learned that racing was already busy working on it," Stoll reveals how the project began. "We then decided to start a project too. It took just ten weeks from the initial idea to the drivable prototype." Once the suspension travel, system, kinematics and geometry had been determined, Thomas Stoll modified an existing carbon rear triangle and had the aluminum main frame welded by a metalworker friend.

The bike at a glance

The "Project 32" prototype has around 100 millimetres of suspension travel at the front and rear, with a suspension fork at the front, which is also unique. The rear suspension system, kinematics and geometry are already considered final. The production model will then be made entirely of carbon and can already be ordered on the website. However, final production will take considerably longer than the ten weeks of the development phase, says Stoll and reveals: "Our customers are very interested. So far, we have only received positive feedback and have already received the first orders."

Furthermore, Stoll says that the target group is not just limited to racing, even though this is part of Stoll's DNA. The advantages are also noticeable for the general customer base: easier progress, more traction and safety, as well as an overall wider range of applications.

The riding impressions

Adjust the saddle, ride off - actually unspectacular. But a direct comparison clearly shows the improved rolling behavior, both on asphalt and gravel. It is most noticeable when riding up trails over roots and stones: The 32-inch tire really does roll more smoothly, with greater traction and efficiency. The switch back to a 29-inch bike is particularly impressive. Although this is noticeably lighter than the 13 kilogram prototype, it feels less confident. The additional weight is hardly noticeable, as the lower rolling resistance compensates for the difference. Nevertheless, the final product should be significantly lighter than the Stoll prototype.

The bike gets going noticeably faster downhill. Small obstacles such as roots or stones literally disappear under the large wheels. In a short comparison test with a stopwatch, albeit only four descents per bike and anything but professional, the impression is also confirmed on the clock: the 32-inch bike is faster.

However, even if the large wheels iron away a lot, offer more grip and provide additional safety - you still have to ride. If you overdo it, you risk taking off, and we came very close to doing so twice during the test. On a trail with constant ups and downs, tight corners and dense root carpets, it also became clear that the Twentyniner is more playful and accelerates more agilely out of corners. Nevertheless, the 32-inch bike requires less effort overall to get through difficult terrain. And the slightly higher acceleration effort doesn't matter either, as the large wheels are simply faster as soon as they have picked up some momentum.

The most important thing: the bike is also fun outside of racing. Those who ride passively are guided safely and calmly through the terrain. Those who play actively will experience a surprisingly agile bike - by no means sluggish or boring.

Long descents did not make it into the short test ride. The effects of the larger wheels on the brakes and their behavior remain unclear for the time being. The short braking maneuvers did not reveal any surprises.

Conclusion

Stoll proves with its Project32 that even larger than the established 29-inch formats can still be useful. The ride becomes easier, whether in competition or for leisure. Sure, a twentyniner remains more playful - but even with 32-inch wheels, there's no room for boredom. Instead, the limits shift: Where you were previously at the limit, the large wheels open up a new chapter.

stoll-bikes.com/p32