Muc-Off

You can't move for interesting bits and bobs at your trade shows, and CORE Bike is no exception. There was plenty of stuff we'd seen before but also some shiny new things, so sit back and let us tell you all about them. From seatposts to sprockets and racks to reads, there was something for everyone.

Muc-Off pump action sprayer

Muc-Off pump action sprayer head

Muc-Off’s water soluble degreaser is a very proficient solvent based cleanser that makes short work of accumulated grease and grime and to that end makes a very handy workshop companion. The fact it easily washes away without obvious trace or harmful effect is a real bonus-especially if you're working on a patio or more ornate surface. However, while in a pinch it will tackle headset overhaul, it struggles with waterproof marine greases and care is required on delicate finishes.

Conventional wisdom has it that dry lubes are for fine, dry conditions. Fair enough, but this is Britain and we don't have a balmy Californian climate, we have weather in all its moist and infinite variety and any lube is going to have to earn its keep.

Muc Off foam fresh is a helmet and shoe cleaning product. Muc off seem to be aiming it more toward helmet liners and pads than other items of cycling apparel but its uses to extend beyond this.

I have used it to clean and refresh the pads in my Giro Ionos, Giro Prolight test helmet and my girlfriend's Specialized Chamonix. It works well, gives a nice, clean smell and dries relatively quickly. A quick scrub of the foam reduces any odours and removes dirt.

Muc-Off's Dirty Work wipes are like kitchen roll on steroids – fibre-reinforced sheets impregnated with cleaning chemicals and a touch of lanolin too to keep your hands nice and soft. At over 20p a sheet you'll want to use them sparingly but they're definitely one for the Christmas or birthday list.

Muc Off's new 'wet lube' is designed for the British weather, especially at this time of year. I have been using it on two of my bikes for around a month in weather that has been changable from dry and sunny to torrential rain and cold winds. The drivetrain has performed admirably, quietly and without fuss. This lube does its job well and is relatively cheap at around £7 a bottle.

Bike cleaning is never fun and I'm always ready to greet anything that makes it easier with open arms. This five piece brush set from grot-busting specialist Muc-Off gets a slightly less enthusiastic welcome. It's not especially bad, it's certainly better than the Park Tools set I tested earlier this year, but it still doesn't really hit the spot.

Muc-Off’s new formula works fast and will have greater appeal amongst the thin tyre fraternity thanks to more efficient removal of road grime. However, while certainly saving time, it’s still prone to leaving a streaky finish and despite boasting green credentials, citrus-based cleansers remain one step ahead.