We have discovered the first electric bike with 32-inch wheels, and it’s not what we imagined.

Almost by chance, we came across this intriguing bicycle that, as far as we know, would be the first to feature 32'' diameter wheels—wheels that have become so popular in cross-country (XC) racing around the world, helping top cyclists win races.

We knew they would eventually turn to electric bikes, but not in the form of this one. This American brand, DirtySixer, launched the eDirtySixer Bosch with a different goal: to address taller users who can’t find suitable options in current electric bikes.

As we mentioned in the introduction, this bike isn’t meant to replace 29'' models; it’s designed specifically for very large sizes. In fact, the eDirtySixer Bosch is only available in 2XL and 3XL frame sizes. Moreover, the largest size doesn’t come with 32'' wheels — it features 36'' wheels!

It has a trick up its sleeve, but it’s the first with 32'' wheels

It’s true that this new bike complements 29'' models, but according to the manufacturer, it holds the title of the first eBike with 32'' wheels. The purpose of these larger wheels (in standard-sized bikes) is to provide greater stability for bikes designed for competition, currently in categories like Cross Country. While this discipline didn’t initially feature very challenging sections, it has gradually seen the introduction of more technical terrain over time.

These wheels, with their larger diameter, allow for higher speeds with a bit more effort (taking slightly longer to accelerate) due to their greater circumference; they prove to be extremely tough in competitions.

The eDirtySixer Bosch also aims to provide more stability, mainly because these are frames with very large dimensions. The 2XL is designed for people over 185 cm tall, while the 3XL is intended for those around 200 cm. The brand released a 4XL model (for those over 210 cm), but it no longer appears to be available according to the website. This last model also came equipped with 36'' wheels.

The bike’s frame is very basic, as the manufacturer didn’t want to complicate things during production: it’s made of 6061 aluminum (with steel forks) and lacks any suspension system. Due to its design and the type of tires installed (solid tires), this bike performs well in urban areas and on dirt roads. Interestingly, it features a dual-disc front brake, similar to those found on top-quality motorcycles.

Benefits for Taller People

Actually, the reason for introducing bikes with such large wheels to the market is to address the needs of taller users, as we’ve mentioned. DirtySixer highlights the following benefits of its eDirtySixer Bosch 32'' and 36'' models:

Greater comfort: thanks to its larger frame and adjustable components, it provides a comfortable and ergonomic riding experience, reducing strain on the back, neck, and shoulders.

Improved stability: taller individuals have a higher center of gravity, which can affect balance and stability. Larger wheels offer greater stability, allowing taller cyclists to feel secure and confident.

Higher efficiency: pedaling a bike with wheels proportional to one’s height requires less effort, resulting in greater efficiency and reduced fatigue.

"Many professional athletes have chosen DirtySixer bikes for riding, including Shaquille O’Neal, Mark Eaton, Rudy Gobert, and others. Our goal is to make cycling accessible to more people so they can feel like kids again," reads the press release from DirtySixer.

Motor: the most 'grounded' aspect of the bike

The motor is a Bosch Performance Line CX, though unfortunately it’s from the 4th generation, meaning its power output is a maximum of 600 W with a torque of 85 Nm. Still, given the focus of this bike, we believe its performance is more than sufficient.

The good thing is that this motor is a Smart System, so we can customize it to our liking through Bosch’s eBike Flow app, as well as take advantage of numerous features related to route control, safety, and more.

The integrated battery is also from Bosch, but it isn’t referred to as such in this context. DirtySixer explains that they supply the frame and components, and it will have to be a Bosch authorized center that installs the motor unit; we understand that each person can use whatever battery they desire.

Although in a way we didn’t expect (we imagined it to be more ‘glamorous’), this is the first eBike we’re aware of that comes with 32'' wheels. Let’s see what’s next.... More information at: eDirtySixer Bosch