Well, here we go! Heres some news about the future of the32 wheel, which seems tobe more of a realityeveryday. Up until now, its been quite challenging for wheel builders to even find spokes long enoughto build 32 wheels.(Photos / Berd)But Berd has just announced that they may have just solved that problem with the release of two new spokes. The first are the PolyLightX Extreme SPokes designed specifically for Downhill and eMTBs. The second is their flagship PolyLight Spoke in lengths up to 340mm.Lets take a look. PolyLightXBerds PolyLightX spokes are designed specifically for riders who need extra durability for enduro, downhill, or eMTB applications. These spokes feature a diameter thats 50% larger than Berds standard PolyLight spokes, resulting in a 44% increase in stiffness and more than double the abrasion resistance compared to the original design.The PolyLightXs design focuses on the specific demands of aggressive riding and high-load situations. Despite the increased strength, PolyLightX spokes weigh just 3.5 grams per spoke, which is only 1 gram heavier than the standard PolyLight version. This weight difference is relatively minimal for riders who need the added performance characteristics for challenging terrain and riding styles.PolyLightXPolyLightX spokes use 14-gauge (2.0mm) threads, which means they work with standard nipple systems that most bike shops and home mechanics already use. The spokes are available in lengths from 270mm to 340mm, covering common wheel sizes including 27.5, 29, and 32 wheels.Berd PolyLightX Spokes DetailWeight: 3.5 grams per spokeDiameter: 2.7 mmThread type: Standard 14-gauge thread (2.0 mm)Compatibility: Hook Flange Hubs onlyUse Cases: Downhill, enduro, and eMTBBerd Spokes for 32 WheelsThe bike industry is preparing for a significant shift as it starts to develop and flirt with the 32 wheel. And theres word that the UCI is preparing to allow 32-inch wheels in World Cup cross-country racing starting in 2026. This change has prompted bike manufacturers like BMC to develop prototype bikes, while tire companies like Maxxis are already producing compatible rubber. The larger wheel format promises better rollover capabilities, improved traction, and faster speeds on select race courses.Berds spoke manufacturing is based in the USA. So, this allowed them to pivot quickly and prepare for the early stages of the 32 wheel revolution. The company now offers its PolyLight and PolyLightX spokes in lengths up to 340mm, in increments of 1mm. Additionally, these new spokes utilize the same polymer technology that has established BERDs presence in professional racing.While 32-inch wheels require spokes approximately 32mm longer than their 29-inch counterparts, Berds polymer spokes add only 0.07 grams per spoke, which means just 3.8 additional grams for a complete wheelset. In comparison, traditional metal spokes face a much steeper weight penalty, adding 26-46 grams per wheelset when scaling up to 32-inch wheels. When your spokes are this long, spoke weight more important than ever. 29 wheel (left). 32 wheel (right)Berd is no stranger to podium-winning spokes and wheels. Over the past two seasons, riders using 29-inch wheels with Berd spokes have achieved more than 50 World Cup podium finishes. This includes four of the six medal positions at the 2024 Olympic mountain bike races. The spokes vibration-damping properties and low weight have made them popular among competitive cross-country riders, characteristics that should transfer directly to the new 32-inch wheel format.Berd PolyLightX Spokes DetailWeight: 2.6 grams per spoke (340 mm spoke)Diameter: 1.8 mmThread type: Standard 14-gauge thread (2.0 mm)Compatibility: Jbend, straightpull, or hook flange hubsPotential use cases: XC MTB, gravelGet more info at the link below! berdspokes.comThe post Berd Launches Longer Spokes for 32 XC Wheels + PolyLightX Extreme Downhill Spokes appeared first on Bikerumor.