I don't think there is any way to prove or disprove this theory. What it does show is the viability of the bigger wheels. Certainly you agree that wheel size can make a difference? Would they have gone as fast on 14 inch wheels? Would 14 inch wheels work as well in rocky terrain? Of course not.

If people didn't experiment with different wheel sizes we wouldn't have any way of knowing what works or what the limits are. I'm all for innovation and choices. Would I buy a 32 inch bike now? No, but I'm open to hearing more about them and seeing their results.