Take2 weeks ago
Schwalbe confirms development of new 30.5" wheel size
Schwalbe has confirmed to industry partners that it is developing a new "intermediate" 30.5" tyre size. The company distributed a letter after Taichung Bike Week 2026 suggesting 30.5" wheels could join 32" wheels as intermediate sizes between 29" and 32" wheels. An unnamed bike brand and wheel manufacturer had approached Schwalbe seeking tyres for a new wheel standard.
What this means
Escape Collective noted that 2026 did not deliver the 32" revolution expected at the start of the year, with more new 29ers arriving at World Cup level than 32ers.
The 30.5" size would sit between 29" and 32" wheels, similar to how 27.5" sits between 26" and 29". Radsport News reported in early September 2026 on a leaked Cube dealer communication stating a new gravel bike would feature 32" wheels except in XS size, which would use 30.5" wheels, leading to speculation that Cube is the unnamed brand behind the approach. This follows earlier rumours from August 2026 that Cube had a 30.5" bike in development alongside a 32-inch XC prototype. Schwalbe already presented the 32" wheel size as one of three technology stories at Taichung Bike Week 2026, alongside Clik Valve and radial casings. It had also announced new 32-inch versions of its G-One RS Pro and G-One RX Pro gravel tyres for launch in April 2027.
Sources
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