Is it time to try out a 32er? I want this for my commuter as its light and big wheels for better roll over. My concern is of course safety, but all carbon fibre XC bikes are made in china so maybe they have experienced quality control. The novelty factor is also a big part of it, I wanted a 36er, but this is much cheaper. The quote from the manufacturer is below, but $1100 usd for the frame fork and wheels.
"32er hardtail frame FM132 UDH hanger can do $369/set (black matte) include frame+headset+Rear axle FM132 front fork price: 105USD
·32" MTB 28mm XC rims Light weight version UD matte 2135=270usd ·NOVATEC BOOST D791SB-B15/D462SB-B12, front 15110mm, rear 148*12mm, 28-28H=119usd ·Pilla 1423 Spokes, Black (28+28+spare 2)*0.6=34.8usd ·SAPIM Nipples (28+28+spare 2)*0.4=23.2usd ·Wheel assembly cost 20usd/pair Total: 467usd/pair
The shipping fee to Canada for a frame + a set of wheels is 150USD, and you need to clear customs yourself."
I definitely see some of this happening, but as a tall rider, going from 26" to 29" tires was fantastic. It felt like I was finally riding a mountain bike meant for someone my size. I didn't buy it for the 32" hype though. It just happened to be what felt right after test riding a bunch of bikes I didn't like. I also test rode a "mulleto" (at least I think that's what it's called when a bike has mismatched wheel sizes) and it came a close second but it was from the same manufacturer as another bike of mine and I try to spread myself around.