ARI Signal Sneak Peek: Wait, That’s a Ridable Prototype 32″ Fox 34 SL Fork, Isn’t It!

Maxxis’s ongoing development of 32-inch tyres has sparked a wave of new prototype components and bikes designed to accommodate the larger wheel size, with one of the most notable being a rideable 32-inch Fox 34 SL suspension fork. While major suspension brands have hinted at 32-inch cross-country forks in development, this particular Fox 34 SL prototype stands out due to its generative design features, such as a hollow wrap-around arch and a machined 7000-series crown. The fork retains the Performance Elite level damping controls, signalling a serious intent to bring this technology to market, even if it remains unofficial for now. Alongside the fork, an aluminium prototype frame from ARI’s Signal Peak range has been revealed, suggesting that the brand is exploring more accessible alloy options for 32-inch wheel cross-country bikes. The frame carries a similar 110mm travel specification to the carbon Signal Peak model reviewed previously, but its raw finish and refined design indicate a potential new direction for ARI to expand its offerings. Given ARI’s existing alloy trail bike, the Cascade Peak, the introduction of a 32-inch alloy model could bridge the gap between XC and trail categories, leveraging the larger wheels’ rollover benefits. Adding further intrigue to the 32-inch ecosystem, a set of prototype Industry Nine Solix carbon wheels has appeared in the background of Maxxis’s promotional materials. These wheels, featuring bright anodised hubs and spokes, appear more mainstream than previous niche 32-inch wheelsets and hint at a broader industry push towards this wheel size. The presence of these components alongside ARI’s frame and Fox’s fork suggests a growing collaborative effort among manufacturers to support the emerging 32-inch category. The exposure of these prototypes comes courtesy of QuarterHP, a content creator group specialising in detailed bike frame testing with standardised component setups. Their partnership with Maxxis, Fox, and Hayes brakes ensures consistent testing conditions, allowing the focus to remain on the frames and suspension. This approach has provided a rare glimpse into the near-future of 32-inch mountain biking gear, signalling that the industry is moving closer to officially launching these larger-wheeled products. Enthusiasts and reviewers alike will be keen to see how these developments translate into consumer-ready models in the coming seasons.