Neko Mullaly Wins Sea Otter DH on His 32” Frameworks “Mega Mullet” 

Neko Mullaly has claimed a notable victory at the Sea Otter Classic downhill race riding his innovative Frameworks “Mega Mullet” bike, which features a unique mixed-wheel setup with a 32-inch front wheel and a 29-inch rear wheel. This unconventional configuration, combining larger-than-usual front wheels with a standard rear size, has been gaining attention in the mountain biking community, but Mullaly’s win marks a significant milestone for the emerging trend. His success demonstrates the potential advantages of experimenting with wheel sizes, especially on courses that favour speed and pedalling efficiency. The bike itself incorporates several bespoke elements tailored to accommodate the unusual wheel combination. Mullaly uses a Fox Podium fork with 140mm of travel, adjusted to prevent the larger front tyre from contacting the fork crown under compression. The front wheel is equipped with a Maxxis Aspen 32” tyre mounted on a Race Face Vault hub, known for its robust build and spoke compatibility, while the rear features a 29” ENVE M7 carbon wheel paired with a Continental Cross King tyre. Additional components include TRP brakes and drivetrain, 5DEV cranks, and a Fox Transfer Neo dropper post, highlighting a blend of high-performance parts chosen to optimise the bike’s handling and responsiveness. Mullaly’s approach to bike design and development is characterised by a willingness to challenge industry norms and push boundaries. His Frameworks brand exemplifies this ethos, with a hands-on product development process that he shares openly through video series, offering enthusiasts a rare glimpse into the testing and refinement stages. The “Mega Mullet” setup is a clear extension of this philosophy, reflecting a desire to innovate rather than conform to traditional downhill bike standards. The Sea Otter downhill course itself, known for its smooth, fast, and pedally nature, proved an ideal proving ground for Mullaly’s experimental rig. Unlike more technical or rough terrain tracks, this course rewards speed and efficient pedalling, making it well-suited to a bike with reduced suspension travel and a fast-rolling front tyre. Mullaly’s victory not only validates the “Mega Mullet” concept but also suggests that such mixed-wheel setups could become more prominent in specific racing conditions, potentially influencing future bike design trends in the downhill and enduro disciplines.