32” Mountain Bikes of Sea Otter 2026: All the Big Wheeled Bikes We Could Find

The 2026 Sea Otter Classic at Laguna Seca Raceway showcased a notable surge in 32-inch wheeled mountain bikes, drawing attention from both boutique brands and larger manufacturers. While the majority of these big-wheeled bikes came from smaller, more agile companies, a few mid-sized brands like Ari and Revel also presented prototypes, hinting at growing interest in this wheel size. Despite the buzz, major players in the industry have yet to fully reveal their 32-inch offerings, although it is clear they are actively developing products in this category. The event also highlighted an expanding ecosystem of 32-inch components, including suspension forks and tyres, which are critical for the broader adoption of these larger wheels. Among the standout exhibits was Wolf Tooth Components’ Actofive I-Train 32, which attracted considerable attention for its striking design and high-end build. Owned by one of Wolf Tooth’s founders, the bike features a CNC-machined aluminium frame, 120mm rear suspension, and a 130mm travel fork, all paired with some of the lightest 32-inch wheels currently available. The Actofive I-Train 32 also sported several exclusive components from Wolf Tooth’s new Mark Zero range, alongside prototype tyres from Schwalbe, underscoring the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of 32-inch mountain biking. This bike was described as a lightweight, precision-crafted machine that blends performance with bespoke craftsmanship. Wolf Tooth also displayed the BTCHN Alpina, a recently launched model noted for its unique textured frame finish and coordinated anodised parts, which demonstrate the company’s custom colour capabilities. This bike was equipped with a Wren inverted fork, one of the few suspension options currently available for 32-inch wheels, and featured a combination of innovative components such as the Madrone Jab derailleur and White Industries x Moots titanium cranks. The Alpina’s build was complemented by Astral’s Jester 32-inch wheels and new 2.4-inch tyres, reflecting the growing variety of compatible parts in the market. White Industries further contributed to the 32-inch narrative with their Sour Pasta Party 32 steel hardtail, which drew attention not only for its modern components but also for its striking paintwork that evoked nostalgia for classic designs. This bike shared some technical features with the BTCHN Alpina, including the Wren inverted fork and Astral Jester wheels, but stood out with its new White Industries x Moots titanium cranks and Shimano XT Di2 wireless shifting. The juxtaposition of this contemporary machine with a 2000s-era Moots race bike at the booth highlighted the evolution of mountain bike design and technology over the past two decades. The presence of Ari’s full suspension 32-inch prototype, paired with Fox’s 32-inch prototype fork, signalled ongoing innovation and experimentation within the sector. Although many of the larger manufacturers remain cautious about fully committing to 32-inch wheels publicly, the increasing number of prototypes and component developments