The technology behind 32-inch wheels is still in its infancy, yet this panel discussion features experts who already have extensive experience with the new standard. Leading the way is Thomas Stoll, who, with his Stoll Bikes, is virtually the only one already selling 32-inch bikes. He is joined on stage by Valentin Wendel, known as the Gyro Gearloose of BMC. His prototypes have already been seen at Cross-Country World Cups. Also joining the discussion is Christian Bättig, one of the industry’s most experienced experts. During the conversation, he analyzes the potential significance of this technology for the bicycle industry and the specialty retail sector. The discussion is moderated by Ride editor Thomas Giger.

Sound familiar?

The debate over wheel size has happened before, when 29ers first emerged fifteen years ago. The uproar was huge back then, the debates heated, and today this wheel size is effectively the standard. But the current wheel size debate only seems like déjà vu at first glance. Fifteen years ago, the cycling world wasn’t in a deep crisis. Fifteen years ago, 27-inch wheels became the new standard. Fifteen years ago, the electric motor was still almost insignificant. From these perspectives, the situation with the new 32-inch wheels is different. This also comes to light during the panel discussion at Cycle Week. The new wheels could be a game-changer for less technically savvy mountain bikers, including beginners. But they could also be a game-changer for professionals, because the larger wheels allow for different performance metrics. It could also be an opportunity for the industry to finally put itself back in the spotlight with positivity and innovation. These and other insights come to the fore in this discussion round, which is well worth listening to.