32", carbon, titanium, and textile spokes: this is what the new "ultralight" wheels from BERD are like

The race to develop 32-inch mountain bikes continues to accelerate, and gradually, specific components for a platform that will be the next big evolutionary leap in XC are starting to appear. At Eurobike 2026, we saw that the American brand BERD already has an ultralight 32” wheelset for this size, with a declared weight of only 1,197 grams.

The 32-inch wheels now have their first "ultralight" set: BERD drops below 1,200 grams thanks to its textile spokes

This figure is particularly relevant when compared to the few 32-inch alternatives currently available. According to data provided by the brand, these new wheels are about 300 grams lighter than the Bike Ahead Biturbo X 32, one of the most well-known references in this still limited segment.

Although they are still heavier than the lightest 29-inch XC wheels, the figure becomes significant when considering the enormous increase in diameter. In fact, they weigh only 175 grams more than the BERD Hawk 30 29”, built with the same hubs and spokes.

The secret lies in the textile spokes

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A large part of the weight savings comes from a technology that BERD has been developing and perfecting for years: its Polylight textile spokes.

Unlike conventional steel spokes, these are made with high-performance fibers and weigh only 2.6 grams per unit. To put this figure in context, a lightweight steel spoke like the Sapim D-Light weighs around 4.8 grams.

The difference may seem small on paper, but multiplied by the 56 spokes that make up the complete set, it represents an approximate reduction of 123 grams compared to a conventional construction.

In addition to the weight reduction, BERD claims that this type of spoke provides greater vibration absorption capacity, a feature particularly interesting in XC and marathon bikes.

Reducing one of the major problems of 32” wheels

One of the main arguments in favor of 32-inch wheels is their enormous ability to overcome obstacles. The larger diameter improves the attack angle over roots, rocks, and steps, allowing for more speed on technical terrain.

However, this advantage has always been accompanied by a clear drawback: the increase in rotational mass. The larger the wheel diameter, the harder it is to maintain a contained weight.

Precisely for this reason, this launch could be important for the future of 32” bikes. If manufacturers can offset part of that mass increase with ultralight components, the platform becomes more attractive for top-level competition.

After we saw a Trek XC 32” for the first time a few hours ago, it now seems no coincidence that the Trek Unbroken is using BERD spokes this season.

Specific rims and new carbon hubs

The new wheels feature a rim specifically designed for XC, certified under the ASTM 3 standard. Each rim declares a weight of 345 grams and has an internal width of 30 mm.

The rim uses an asymmetric profile that allows for equal spoke length on both sides of the wheel, an unusual solution that BERD has developed in collaboration with Erase Components.

For this project, both companies have also created a new ultralight hub called Erase Talon ESL, with a declared weight of 333 grams for the front and rear set.

The hubs use a freewheel system with a ratchet and 70 engagement points, which translates to an action every 5.14 degrees. Additionally, they combine a carbon fiber shell with a titanium core to further reduce weight.

Price and availability

BERD already has these wheels for sale on its website and the price is €2,930 for the set.

They are not wheels intended for the general public, but they do represent one of the most advanced developments we have seen so far in the emerging world of 32 inches. And, above all, they demonstrate that the industry continues to invest resources in a platform that just a year ago seemed like a mere laboratory curiosity and is increasingly likely to reach the World Cup.