Schwalbe's Take: Real Tangible Advantages of 32-Inch Tires

32-inch wheels have been the talk of cycling tech throughout 2025, and with various big-wheeled prototypes hitting the halls of the Velofollies show in Belgium, the subject remains a hot topic as we transition into 2026. Now, Schwalbe has stepped up to the stand, publishing an industry statement, offering us a detailed look into what to expect from the experimental wheel size. Additionally, the brand has unveiled more affordable versions of some of its favourite rubber. 32in wheels for mountain bikes are here... but do we really need them? The Chinese bike uprising, aero MTB, 32-inch wheels and pedal kickback: Liam's 2026 tech predictions DirtySixer opens pre-orders for its 32-inch wheeled mountain bike Schwalbe's 32in tyres are currently undergoing tests through the Schwalbe LAB, where the brand tests, develops and analyses new tech. A prime example of a product that has gone through such a process is the well-received Radial mountain bike tyres. Having assessed big wheels, Schwalbe has found that 32in tyres provide significant advantages that can't be ignored. Some of which are greater stability, resulting in "an increased sense of safety", according to Schwalbe. Additionally, the brand says that they perform better over rooty and rocky terrain, providing more grip and higher cornering speeds, while boosting comfort. And apparently, although heavier, Schwalbe says that its tester riders noticed no tangible drawbacks when climbing. Then, Schwalbe's lab measurements "confirm that 32-inch tyres offer measurable advantages in rolling resistance on uneven terrain." Schwalbe's report concludes that 32-inch tyres' advantages can stretch beyond the needs of performance tyres, suggesting that they may find a home on commuter and perhaps budget bikes. The brand has also given us an insight into when we might find its big tyres on the market - they're coming, but not until 2027. So 32-inch wheels are certainly on the way, whether we're ready for them or not, but if Schwalbe's tests are true, they could be a positive step forward for all kinds of cycling. Schwalbe's Head of Product Management, Felix Schäfermeier, comments, “32-inch tyres have been the most attentive topic in our Schwalbe LAB since our benchmarking radial tyres. Regardless of use-case, riding style, or conditions, this new wheel size offers significant advantages: lower rolling resistance, increased grip, and improved comfort and safety, especially on rough terrain. We at Schwalbe are fully convinced of 32-inch tyres and are working hard to bring the first top-tier tyres to market.” Schwalbe brings some of its favourite gravel tyres to a lower price Today isn't all about wagon wheels, as Schwalbe has unveiled new models of some of its key gravel tyres at a lower price point. The new G-One R models use the same tread patterns as its racey G-One R PRO tyres, as well as the Race construction. These tyres also use the RaceGuard insert to boost puncture protection. However, these G-One R tyres use a different rubber compound - Addix Green. This is a fair-trade natural rubber which uses recycled carbon black, and we're told that the compound saves 80% CO2e, compared to the industrial carbon black used previously. Coming to the G-One RX, R-One R and G-One RS, this new compound brings the price down to a recommended retail price of €49.90 (around £43.41). As well as those gravel-specific tyres, Schwalbe has brought new G-One Overland and G-One Comp Plus tyres into the mix. Built more for commuting, with off-road capability, these tyres benefit from three carcass layers, the RaceGuard insert and the new Addix Green rubber compound. The G-One Comp Plus then uses a 3mm PunctureGuard insert, especially for urban use. Expect these tyres to set you back €47.90, or around £41.67. www.schwalbe.com You might also like: