Bike Ahead Composites introduced an experimental, fully rideable 32‑inch prototype gravel bike, equipped with oversized six‑spoke wheels and Maxxis Aspen 32×2.4 tires.

The test rides were so promising that they started the project “Size Matters.”  It is a collaboration between Maxxis, Bike Ahead, and Räderei Bautzen and brings together craftsmanship, curiosity and a passion for technology.

The decision to ride 32” has its pro’s and con’s. First experiences show that rollover and straight-line behaviour improve. Downside is the slightly higher wheel weight. It is just a matter of experimenting and keep an open mind.

The prototype frame consists of carbon tubes and steel lugs. It features a unique forged-carbon look with a marble effect. The machined UDH dropout is a custom-made part. It offers fully internal cable routing.

The fork is a Columbus Futura Adventure, originally designed for 29-inch bikes. It has the perfect axle-to-crown height and provides ample clearance for the 32” tires. These are supplied by Maxxis. The Aspen is optimized for wide rims, features the fast-rolling MaxxSpeed compound and EXO Protection.

The BITURBO wheels are the signature product of the Würzburg carbon manufacturer Bike Ahead. The new 32-inch version is also built in a one-piece monocoque construction. Despite the bigger size, the wheelset is lightweight and agile without compromising lateral stiffness or stability. The BITURBO X 32″ wheelset weighs 1495 grams.

Bike Ahead also supplied the 299 grams weighing handlebar, THE COCKPIT. It is produced in a one-piece monocoque design, and offers fully integrated cable routing.

Drivetrain and brakes are Shimano XTR / Shimano GRX 1×12, a lightweight and functional Shimano mix. The crank set features an aero chainring from CNC experts Alugear.

Bike Aheads’ saddle is comfortable, and ultra-light. The HYPERSADDLE weighs only 75 grams. The text on the saddle is all about what this project is about: SIZE MATTERS.

Images: Bike Ahead/Artsy Studio.de