You know how they say bigger isn't better and that it's what's on the inside that counts? Forget about this when it comes to big bikes that suit the tallest of riders. This is one case where bigger isn't just better but ideal.
David Folch, a self-described "tall guy" himself who happened to break his ankle on a standard-sized bike, is also the founder and the brains behind DirtySixer, a bike company like few others out there. DirtySixer went into business in 2013 and, since then, has only been building two-wheel alternatives for tall riders.
Without bragging too much, DirtySixer has been doing a good job at it, if its clientele list is anything to go by. Shaquille O'Neal is perhaps the biggest name associated with this brand (and also an occasional brand ambassador), but DirtySixer has also delivered to Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Rik Smits, Keith Closs, Donovan Mitchell, and no less than 15 units to Rody Gobert, who wanted the perfect – and perfectly-sized – gift for his teammates.
Right now, DirtySixer is getting ready to launch its first e-bike series, and in keeping with the tradition, it will be a pair of oversize bikes based on models they already had in their lineup.
Photo: DirtySixer
The e32er and the e36er are coming to crowdfunding, and the names are self-explanatory: the 32-inch mountain bike and the 36-inch gravel bike are getting motor-assisted counterparts. DirtySixer is sending out word to all tall riders to join the campaign early to get the most perks.
As the company explains it, the e32er will be for Kobe-sized riders, while the e36er will be for those nearly as tall as Shaq. The other difference is that while the 36-inch variant is ideal for gravel, commuting, and rough terrain (it's not called the Allroad model for nothing!), the 32-inch one feels most at home on tight singletrack.
The 32er, which was developed as a prototype as early as 2017 and is now being ushered into the new age of motor-assisted mountain biking, is the first eMTB with a 32-inch wheel standard, according to the company. It now comes equipped with the custom 2.4" wide T-Monster tire designed especially for it.
Either model of DirtySixer e-bike comes with the Bosch CX Performance mid-drive motor that develops 86Nm of torque, 600W of continuous power, and the Smart System tech that makes even the most challenging climb a fun one. DirtySixer promises that, with motor assist, these machines will make every commute smooth and convenient without the need "to pack a change of undergarments."
Tektro hydraulic brakes and a 10-speed Shimano LinkGlide are also on the features list, as is the possibility to add options later, like racks and accessories.
The e32er and the 236ers are offered at a (secret) discount for registered VIPs between April 18 and May 6, with the main campaign running between May 7 and July 15 with a 20% and then a 10% discount. Make a note of those dates, because MRSP once crowdfunding is over is $8,999 for either model.
Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends. Full profile
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