Stephane Pelletier's Bold Predictions for the Future of Mountain Biking in 2026

Daily Technology

02/01/2026

Mountain biking enthusiast Stephane Pelletier has shared his forward-looking insights into what the sport might look like by 2026. His predictions span technological advancements, shifts in riding styles, and the evolving landscape of the bike industry, offering a glimpse into potential changes that could reshape how we ride and consume.

Key Takeaways

The emergence of 32-inch wheels, a potential industry consolidation, and a growing dominance of e-bikes.

The Rise of 32-Inch Wheels

Pelletier anticipates the inevitable introduction of 32-inch wheeled bikes, despite initial resistance. He notes investments in tires and components specifically for this size, suggesting a future where riders will adopt them, followed by consumer-ready models. However, he cautions that, much like the early days of 29ers, the development and optimization of these larger wheels will be a slow process of trial and error, requiring fundamental geometry adjustments.

Freeride's Resurgence

Freeriding is poised for a significant comeback, according to Pelletier. He believes the sport is returning to its roots, emphasizing self-expression, creativity, and the camaraderie of riding with friends. This shift is seen as a reaction against the trend towards highly technical, competition-focused slopestyle, with a renewed appreciation for the raw, authentic spirit of freeride.

Red Bull Hardline's Expansion and Downhill's Evolution

Pelletier predicts that Red Bull Hardline will expand into a three-stop series, potentially including a stop near Vancouver. More significantly, he foresees a continued decline in the popularity of World Cup downhill racing in favor of events like Hardline and other independent downhill series. He attributes this to changes in World Cup broadcasting and a growing audience preference for the high-octane, viewer-friendly format offered by Hardline and similar events.

Industry Consolidation and Challenges

The bike industry is expected to face further consolidation, with more brands potentially closing their doors. Pelletier points to an oversaturated market with too many brands producing similar products. He suggests that only brands that clearly differentiate themselves, build trust, offer strong value, and remain connected to the community will survive. The industry, he argues, needs to shrink to a sustainable size.

E-Bikes Gain Momentum

Sales of traditional, non-electric bikes are reportedly flatlining, while e-bike adoption is accelerating across North America. Pelletier predicts that brands will increasingly focus on e-bike platforms, leading to a proportionally smaller number of new pedal-only bikes entering the market. While regular bikes are not disappearing, the trend indicates a significant shift in market resources and development towards electric-assist models.

2025-06-04

600-Year-Old Celestial Mystery Solved: The Enigmatic 'Guest Star' Identified as a Nova

Astronomers have finally solved the 600-year-old mystery of the 1408 'guest star' from Ming Dynasty China, identifying it as a nova based on a newly discovered historical document.