What are the potential benefits of 32-inch wheels on mountain bikes?
Smoother ride, better rollover capability, and enhanced traction in certain conditions.
Yanuki
ARTICLE DETAIL
Faction Bike Studio Tests 32-Inch 'Big Ben' Prototype & Skegness' Newest Thrill Ride | 2026 Kawasaki Z1100 Details Emerge | Faction Bike Studio Tests 32-Inch 'Big Ben' Prototype & Skegness' Newest Thrill Ride | 2026 Kawasaki Z1100 Details Emerge
Bikes / Prototypes
Faction Bike Studio Tests 32-Inch 'Big Ben' Prototype & Skegness' Newest Thrill Ride
Faction Bike Studio has begun testing its 32-inch full suspension prototype, Project Big Ben, designed to challenge performance and comfort in off-road cycling. Meanwhile, Skegness Pleasure Beach has introduced its own 'Big Ben'—a towering...
Key Insights
- Faction Bike Studio's 'Project Big Ben' features a bonded aluminum frame, custom Intend inverted 32-inch fork, and Maxxis 32-inch Aspen prototype tires. Why this matters: This challenges conventional mountain bike design, exploring enhanced rollover capabilities and ride comfort.
- Initial ride impressions note a smoother, more planted ride with improved traction on technical ascents. Why this matters: Larger wheels may offer advantages in specific terrains and riding styles.
- Skegness Pleasure Beach's 'Big Ben' is a 262-foot tall star flyer ride offering panoramic views. Why this matters: It's a major new attraction for the popular seaside town, though some find the £10 ticket price steep for the short ride duration.
In-Depth Analysis
**Faction Bike Studio's 'Project Big Ben'** Faction Bike Studio's prototype features 120mm of travel front and rear and aims for XC-oriented performance. Testers reported improved climbing and acceleration, along with enhanced stability on descents. The larger wheels smoothed out small bumps, but the setup occasionally felt undergunned on steep drops. Traction was excellent in dry conditions but diminished in wet conditions, highlighting the need for specific tire design.
**Skegness Pleasure Beach's 'Big Ben' Ride** The 'Big Ben' ride at Skegness is a star flyer offering views across the town. Riders are lifted high into the air. The ride's duration is less than five minutes, which some visitors feel does not justify the price.
FAQ
What are the drawbacks of the 'Big Ben' ride at Skegness?
Short ride duration and a relatively high ticket price (£10).
Takeaways
- 32-inch wheels may offer a smoother and more stable ride for mountain biking, but further testing is needed to optimize geometry and tire choice.
- The 'Big Ben' ride at Skegness provides great views but may not be worth the cost for some visitors.
Discussion
Do you think 32-inch wheels will become more common in mountain biking? Have you tried the 'Big Ben' ride at Skegness? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Sources
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