The world of mountain biking is about to witness a revolutionary moment as 32" wheels make their debut at the prestigious Absa Cape Epic race. This event, spanning an impressive 707 kilometers, will serve as the ultimate test for these larger wheels, offering a unique insight into their performance and potential.
The Rider's Perspective
Felix Stehli, a seasoned racer with Team Honeycomb 226ers, has been an early adopter of this new wheel size. He describes the experience as a "complete different riding style," highlighting the significant impact of the bigger wheels on grip and control. Stehli's choice to run 100mm of suspension travel on his Stoll P32 bike is an interesting strategy, as he believes it provides a similar level of comfort to smaller wheels with more travel. This approach suggests a new way of thinking about suspension setup, challenging traditional norms.
Technical Innovations
One of the most intriguing aspects of Stehli's setup is his use of a RockShox flight attendant sensor on his Intend 32" fork. This innovative integration showcases the potential for advanced technology to enhance the riding experience. By pairing this with a standard RockShox SIDLuxe Flight Attendant rear shock, Stehli has created a unique and cutting-edge build.
The Cost Factor
The Stoll P32, Stehli's chosen race bike, comes with a premium price tag. With builds starting at 9,500 CHF and reaching up to 13,000 CHF for the lightweight option, it's clear that this technology is not for the faint-hearted. However, for those willing to invest, the potential performance gains and the opportunity to be at the forefront of mountain biking innovation are significant.
A New Era?
As we witness the debut of 32" wheels at the Cape Epic, it raises questions about the future of mountain biking. Will this larger wheel size become the new standard, offering enhanced performance and control? Or is it a niche innovation, appealing to a select few? Only time will tell, but for now, we can sit back and enjoy the spectacle of this revolutionary technology in action.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of 32" wheels at the Absa Cape Epic is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of mountain biking. It showcases the sport's willingness to embrace innovation and push boundaries. While the initial results from Stehli's testing are promising, the true test will come this weekend as he puts these wheels to the ultimate race challenge. It's an exciting development, and I, for one, can't wait to see how this story unfolds.
