Update: 32″ Scott Addict Gravel Prototype Raced to 356-mile Unbound XL Win by Robin Gemperle

Robin Gemperle secured a remarkable victory at the 2026 Unbound XL race in Emporia, Kansas, riding Scott’s innovative 32-inch Addict Gravel prototype. The gruelling 356.5-mile event, notorious for its punishing terrain and challenging weather, tested riders with mud, water crossings, and even forced Gemperle to run 13 miles on foot due to washed-out dirt roads. Despite these harsh conditions, Gemperle completed the race in just over 21 hours, demonstrating both the durability and performance potential of the large-wheeled gravel bike in its competitive debut. The prototype itself features a distinctive setup tailored for ultra-distance racing, including 32-inch wheels paired with 50mm gravel tyres, which offered a balance of rollover efficiency and sufficient mud clearance. Gemperle’s bike was equipped with Industry Nine hubs and deep aero carbon wheels, though specific technical details remain limited. His cockpit combined a narrow flared handlebar with Profile Design aero clip-on extensions and a high-powered Supernova headlight system, optimised for the long night stages. The rider also utilised a lightweight hydration vest and aerodynamic storage solutions, highlighting a minimalist yet functional approach to gear for the extreme conditions. The race underscored the advantages of larger wheels in gravel racing, particularly over extended distances where rolling resistance and terrain smoothing become critical. Gemperle noted that the 32-inch wheels felt faster than his previous setups, suggesting a competitive edge in efficiency and comfort. This contrasts with his teammate Cameron Jones, who rode the same prototype in the shorter, faster 200-mile race but faced muddier conditions and finished tenth, indicating that the benefits of the larger wheels may be more pronounced in ultra-endurance formats. With only 59 of the 237 starters finishing the brutal Unbound XL, Gemperle’s win on a prototype bike speaks volumes about the potential of Scott’s 32-inch gravel platform. The success of this debut raises intriguing questions about the future adoption of larger wheels in gravel racing and the continued development of specialised equipment for extreme events. As Scott and their riders prepare for upcoming races, the 32-inch Addict Gravel prototype will be closely watched as a possible game-changer in the discipline.