Leadville 100 Pro Bikes: 32-Inch Wheels vs. Lightweight Hardtails

At the Race Across the Sky, cross-country cycling standards do not apply, prompting pro athletes to make radically different gear choices ranging from ultra-light setups to experimental wheel configurations, according to reporting by Velo. Riders tackling the grueling high-altitude course must balance rolling efficiency against climbing weight.

Evolution of Wheel Sizes and Pro Bike Setups

The off-road bike design space is shifting rapidly as oversized components enter competitive fields. According to cyclingabout.com, the 32-inch mountain bike category has evolved from a novelty into a competitive option for cross-country, trail, and gravel riding, bringing enhanced rollover capabilities and stability.

Major manufacturers and custom builders alike are testing these boundaries. Cyclingabout.com reports that Simon Metzner of Actofive developed a custom 32-inch mountain bike platform at the request of wheel manufacturer DT Swiss, utilizing a completely CNC-machined main frame and matching seatstays rather than modifying an existing 29-inch frame.

Custom Titanium and Suspension Innovations

Alternative setups extend far beyond standard frame geometries. Cyclingabout.com notes that Australian custom titanium frame builder Baum Cycles has tested a prototype of its DBM model utilizing a Cannondale Lefty fork to smooth out rough gravel surfaces.

Meanwhile, prototype development includes unique front-and-rear combinations. Cyclingabout.com highlights an Alutech E-Enduro super mullet build featuring a 32-inch front wheel paired with a 27.5-inch rear wheel, utilizing an upside-down suspension fork from Intend to manage front-end height and geometry.