In a groundbreaking performance at the 2026 Sea Otter Classic, Neko Mulally clinched the elite men’s downhill title aboard his innovative 32/29-inch “mega mullet” setup. This configuration, featuring a 32-inch front wheel paired with a 29-inch rear, marks a significant evolution in mountain bike design. (pinkbike.com)
Mulally’s victory underscores the potential of larger wheels in downhill racing, challenging traditional norms and opening new avenues for bike geometry experimentation. His Frameworks bike, equipped with this mixed-wheel setup, demonstrated exceptional performance on the Sea Otter course, which is known for its smooth, fast, and pedal-intensive nature. (pinkbike.com)
The bike’s front end features a 32-inch Maxxis Aspen tire mounted on a Race Face Vault hub, complemented by a Fox Podium fork with 140mm of travel. The rear wheel is a 29-inch ENVE M7 carbon rim fitted with a Continental Cross King tire. TRP components, including brakes and a downhill drivetrain, along with 5DEV cranks, complete the build. A tuned mass damper is externally mounted near the head tube, and the Fox Transfer Neo dropper post adds to the bike’s unique configuration. (pinkbike.com)
Mulally’s success with this setup could pave the way for broader adoption of mixed-wheel configurations in downhill racing, offering riders enhanced stability and performance. His willingness to experiment with unconventional designs exemplifies the spirit of innovation driving the sport forward.
The Sea Otter Classic continues to serve as a platform for testing and showcasing cutting-edge bike technologies, with Mulally’s victory highlighting the event’s role in pushing the boundaries of mountain biking.