Title defender Cam Jones rides Unbound on prototype bike that will never hit the market

As the defending champion, Cameron Jones will already draw a lot of attention on Saturday during Unbound, but his bike will also attract considerable interest. The New Zealander is riding the Unbound Gravel 200, the flagship event of Unbound, on a prototype bike with 32-inch wheels that will never hit the market.

Bike brand Scott announced today that Jones, along with Swiss ultracyclist Robin Gemperle, will tackle the relentless terrain of the Kansas Flint Hills on a prototype bike with 32-inch wheels instead of the standard 700c wheels. This bike — also featuring a prototype frame — is specially designed for Unbound and will "never be released commercially," according to Cyclingweekly.

This is prohibited in UCI races. The use of prototypes is only allowed if these products eventually become available to regular consumers.

However, different rules apply in races that are part of the Life Time Grand Prix - a prestigious offroad cycling series in the United States. Most gravel races fall outside UCI regulations, allowing more room for experimentation.

"It feels like you’re floating over the ground"
The use of 32-inch wheels is one of the most debated topics in the cycling industry. Proponents argue that these wheels provide more momentum, enabling riders to better maintain their speed. With these wider tires, it’s also easier to roll over obstacles, and moreover, they offer a larger contact patch, which results in improved grip.

According to Scott, just one test ride was enough to convince Jones. "With this bike, it feels like you’re floating over the ground. It feels like you’re racing on the road, while you’re actually riding on gravel," says the 25-year-old rider enthusiastically. "The traction and grip in corners is truly revolutionary. I’m genuinely scared of how fast I can corner on a course with real descents."