We are always a bit sceptical when it comes to the introduction of new wheel sizes. When 26” became 27,5” and later 29”. Now we know better after riding 29” for so many years. But when the even bigger 32” wheels were introduced, we had second thoughts about functionality. But seeing Leon Kaiser winning the Sea Otter Classic on the Avona Callis 32” gravel bike, we were won over. Time to have a closer look at this bike, especially as it is now available to order for anyone.
The Callis already existed in a 28” version. For the bigger wheels the geometry had to be adapted to make it work. Avona opted for a 70° head angle, a 60 mm offset, a 440 mm chain stay, and a 10 mm longer reach. This resulted in a bike that offers responsiveness, stability, tyre clearance and a proper riding position.
Tyres up to 55 mm width can be fitted. That leaves about 6 mm for mud clearance. The CF9 carbon frame weighs 898 grams, fork 409 grams. The weight of the Faserwerk 32” wheels are 1.492 grams (DT Swiss 240 hubs) or 1.567 grams (DT Swiss 350 hubs). Total weight of the bike starts at 7,78 kg.
Avona developed the Callis 32 in extensive wind tunnel tests and using the so-called Virtual Elevation Method, measuring resistance during cycling. The result showed that the 32” wheels outperformed the standard wheel sizes using the same tyres (Schwalbe G-One RX, 50 mm). Especially on rough road conditions, thanks to the superior rolling ability. And the aerodynamic downside of the bigger wheels was less than expected.
At 35 km/h and an 86 kg system weight, the measured difference corresponded to an 11.7 watts reduction in rolling resistance. This would mean a serious advantage in gravel races. But even at 20 km/h, the saving can go up to around 8 watts.
The Callis 32 is designed to fit riders from 164 cm in height which is unusual regarding the fact that larger wheels leave less scope for compact geometries. Avona solves this with a special geometry concept. Every frame size can be ridden in both a traditional and a forward-leaning position. The difference lies in the seat post angle using 0, 15 or 30 mm offset. The carbon frame comes in 3 different sizes; medium, large and extra-large.
The Callis 32 comes in 3 different set-ups all equipped with home brand Faserwerk wheels, cockpit and seat post:
SRAM Rival XPLR 13s, Schwalbe G-One 50-686, Faserwerk Kornkreis / DT Swiss 350: € 5.799*
SRAM Force XPLR 13s, Schwalbe G-One 50-686, Faserwerk Kornkreis / DT Swiss 350, Faserwerk Luftschneider cockpit: € 6.599*
SRAM Red XPLR 13s, Schwalbe G-One 50-686, power meter, Faserwerk Kornkreis / DT Swiss 240, Faserwerk Luftschneider cockpit: € 8.999
Frameset with Faserwerk handlebars and seatpost: € 3.599
In the configurator on the website you can choose from 4 different finishes: carbon clear coat, deep olive, ultra violet or ready to paint. As you can see at the images, we prefer the olive green colour, just to fit with the trails we would love to ride with this bike.
More information: www.callis32.avona.cc
*Manufacturer price, this could vary by country, pls check your local supplier
Images/video: Avona