Mason is set to showcase the Macro32, a rugged adventure hardtail equipped with yet-to-be-released 32-inch wheels from Hunt, at the Bespoked Dresden 2026 show. The British bicycle maker claims this is “the first 32in bike of its kind from a UK brand, and probably the first like this in the world.”
The Macro32 builds upon Mason’s existing Macro29 bikepacking adventure bike, swapping in 32-inch wheels—one of the most talked-about emerging trends in cycling. Dom Mason, the company’s founder and designer, admits he initially kept his distance from the 32-inch wheel movement.
“I was sceptical and didn’t want to jump in because it was the ‘next BIG thing.’ It’s no good making an adventure bike with rare wheels and tyres that you can’t find a replacement for if disaster strikes in the middle of a big ride,” Dom Mason explained in the official press release for the bike.
However, he now believes the market has reached a tipping point. “We are seeing a really usable selection of 32in tyres in various widths, from most of the big makers, along with the emergence of suitable suspension forks from brands like DTSwiss,” he added.
Not Merely a Concept
Bespoked Dresden opens its doors today, Friday 11 September, and the independent bicycle show has already established itself as a proving ground for 32-inch wheels. Back at Bespoked London 2026 in April, multiple frame builders displayed 32-inch bicycles, though most were one-off creations. Mainstream manufacturers have also joined the fray with 32-inch prototypes, such as Scott’s 32-inch gravel bike and Canyon’s bespoke Grizl built for LeBron James.
Despite this experimental atmosphere, Mason insists the Macro32 “is not a concept bike.” He stated: “We have identified true potential and we are in serious development, with a view to adding the Macro32 to our range for 2027.”
The company’s supported riders, Josh Ibbet and Angus Young, will put the final development version of the bike through its paces during the inaugural 1,460km Taurus Mountain Race in October. Following that, Mason will refine and adjust the bike as needed, finalising its geometry and features before its official launch next year.
Macro Platform “Lends Itself Perfectly” to 32-Inch Wheels
According to Mason, the aluminium Macro frame “lends itself perfectly to the inherent advantages of a large fast-rolling wheel.” The adventure hardtail’s geometry is also a natural match for the larger wheel size, allowing the company to offer three sizes—medium, large, and extra large—without sacrificing rider fit, efficiency, or clearances.
“We don’t want to lose the engaging and dependable ride feel of the Macro, purely for ‘straight line speed.’ Keeping the rider-compartment similar to the Macro29 is key here, along with keeping BB height, wheelbase and trail angles in check,” Mason said. “New seatstay, chainstay and seat tube design were all necessary, once again carried out in conjunction with our master tube makers at Dedacciai, Italy.”
The bike also features Mason’s HotShoe2 carbon fork. Its mudguard and large tyre clearance means it can comfortably accommodate 32-inch wheels.
Hunt’s New Proven 32-Inch Wheelset
Fitted to the Macro32 are 32-inch wheels from Hunt, a long-standing collaborator of Mason. The two companies have worked closely together since Mason was founded in 2014, with Hunt supplying wheelsets for its bicycles. Now Hunt has created the Proven 32-inch wheelset, which makes its debut on the Mason Macro32.
Mason has disclosed limited details about the wheels, and Hunt has not yet responded to BikeRadar’s request for information. However, it is known that the wheels use Boost spacing. This could help maintain stiffness and strength, even though some brands have chosen Super Boost spacing for this wheel size. The Macro32 also sports new 32-inch adaptors for the Tailfin Speedpack, marking their first appearance at a bike show. —END—
