More 32" tyres from MaxxisFive new profiles for 32" gravel and MTB

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 16.04.2026

Maxxis offers five different profiles in the 32-inch wheel size.
Photo: Maxxis
The big wheel trend for gravel bikes and MTBs: 32 inches. Maxxis is the first tyre manufacturer to launch a complete line-up for the new wheel size. In addition to the gravel profiles, tyres for mountain bikes with more suspension travel are particularly relevant.

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The new Maxxis 32" tyres are more than just a size increase - they represent a paradigm shift in the bike segment. The innovative tyre format is intended to open up completely new possibilities for bikers. And the extensive Maxxis line-up finally makes it clear that 32" tyres are more than just a technical gimmick. The new size is coming, both on mountain bikes and in the gravel segment.

The BIKE editorial team has already been able to find out whether 32 inches really delivers advantages in an extensive laboratory and practical test. The complete You can read about the comparison between 29 and 32 inch mountain bikes here in the link.

The new wheel size seems to be particularly relevant for XC racing. However, with the Maxxis Dissector, there is now also an MTB tyre in 32 inches, which will also transfer the new size to mountain bikes with more suspension travel.

An overview of the theoretical advantages of 32-inch technology:

  • Significantly improved rollover behaviour for effortless off-road riding
  • Higher roll efficiencyparticularly noticeable on rough surfaces
  • Better driving stabilitywhich continues to rise with increasing speed
  • Larger contact area for optimum traction on any terrain
  • Fatigue-free driving due to better damping properties

Complete range for all areas of application

The new 32-inch range from Maxxis currently comprises five models. From gravel tyres for all-road adventures, to MTB race models for fast cross-country adventures, to MTB tyres with a reinforced casing and more tread for demanding terrain.

The super-fast Aspen ST lands at the lower end of the grip level. In 32 x 2.15, it is designed for gravel bikes. The wider 2.4-inch version is designed to set the fastest times on fast cross-country courses. This is followed by the classic, well-known Aspen, also a specialised tyre for cross-country racers. New is the Aspen AT, which is designed to provide more safety and riding stability with a slightly higher profile, especially on the front wheel.

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With the well-known Forekaster and Dissector mountain bike tread patterns, Maxxis is also targeting MTBs with more suspension travel. Both tyres come in 32 x 2.4 inch dimensions, but initially only with the thin Exo carcass.

According to Maxxis, this covers all bike categories for which the use of the new tyre size currently makes sense. Road bike tyres for the road are not yet included here.

The new 32-inch tyres at a glance:

  • Maxxis Aspen, 32 x 2.4 inch, 837 g, Maxxspeed Exo, available from July 26
  • Maxxis Aspen ST (Gravel), 32 x 2.15 inch, 713 g, Hypr-X Exo, available from August 26
  • Maxxis Aspen ST, 32 x 2.4 inch, 820 g, Maxxspeed Exo, available from August 26
  • Maxxis Aspen AT, 32 x 2.4 inch, 896 g, Maxxspeed Exo, available from May 26
  • Maxxis Forekaster, 32 x 2.4 inch, 1060 g, Maxxterra Exo, available from August 26
  • Maxxis Dissector, 32 x 2.4 inch, 1170 g, Maxxterra Exo, available from August 26

Conclusion: opinion of the editorial team

The next step towards 32 inches has been taken. It's no secret that the industry is busy working on bikes with the new wheel size. The biggest hurdle remains the availability of suitable parts. The fact that Maxxis is now putting a whole series of 32-inch tyres in the shops shows that 32 inches is more than just a pipe dream of bike tinkerers. We are excited to see where the journey takes us.

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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