Maxxis - 32" tyres for MTB & GravelFive new profiles in 32 inches

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 16.04.2026

Maxxis offers five different profiles in the 32-inch wheel size.
Photo: Maxxis
32 inch is the next big trend for MTBs and gravel bikes. Maxxis is now the first tyre manufacturer to present a complete line-up for the new wheel size. In addition to XC and gravel treads, there is also a real trail tyre. This means that 32 inch tyres are also relevant for bikes with more suspension travel.

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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.

We have already been able to find out whether 32 inches really delivers advantages in our extensive laboratory and practical test. The complete You can read the comparison between 29 and 32 inches here in the link. The new wheel size seems to be most relevant in the XC racing sector. However, with the Maxxis Dissector, there is now also a trail tyre in 32 inches, which will also transfer the new size to bikes with more suspension travel.

The theoretical advantages of 32-inch technology at a glance:

  • 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 programme from Maxxis currently comprises five models. From gravel tyres for all-road adventures, to XC MTB models for cross-country performance, to trail tyres with a reinforced carcass for demanding terrain.
trail tyres with reinforced carcass 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 version in 2.4 inches is designed to achieve the best 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 trail tread patterns, Maxxis is also targeting bikes with more suspension travel. Both tyres come in the 32 x 2.4 inch size, 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. This does not yet include downhill all-mountain or enduro bikes.

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

Opinion of the BIKE 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 brainchild 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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