Mick Kirkman

Mick Kirkman is a cycling photographer, mountain bike and product tester, and freelance writer. A childhood spent messing about racing BMXs eventually led to downhill and four-cross competition, peaking at elite level DH and a dual slalom National Champ medal. As well as tinkering in bike development, he’s ridden, raced, and documented mountain biking non-stop since the late 90s, and is one of only a handful of bike testers experienced enough to have hundreds of reviews under his belt.

Fat tyres, super aero bikes and deep section alloy rims: the best gravel tech of Gralloch 2026

Our Mick headed up to Gatehouse of Fleet to check out what new kit has popped up during one of the UK's most exciting gravel races

An homage to spring (cleaning): Why March to May is the best time of year to hit the trails

Tell me that hasn’t just felt like one of the longest, wettest winters in memory. It’s been brutal. Finally, days are getting longer and the sun stronger, as we squint into the light and delay wondering how to pedal through another Greenwich Mean Time eve

Mick Kirkman

Orbea’s Rallon RS may be a glimpse into the future of e-MTB… but I just don’t have the cash

Although bright, the future is looking rather expensive, says Mick Kirkman

Mick Kirkman

Gravity Grid stem review

A good-looking stem with a solid feel and nice finish quality

£70.00

Gravity Grid handlebar review

A wide, super stiff bar, but all but the heaviest or hardest if riders might find it harsh

£70.00

Race Face Aeffect R stem

It's not amazing value, but it's solid, reliable and it's got quality finishing.

£60.00

Race Face Aeffect R 35 handlebar

If this Race Face bar is wide enough for you, it's solid, precise and a bargain too

£42.00

Cromag BZA 35 stem

A totally solid stem for hard riding, but it's on the heavier end of the spectrum

£100.00

Cromag Fubars OSX 35 handlebar

If you’re looking for a seriously beefy handlebar that doesn’t beat you up, this 35mm OSX is a great option at a price that’s decent

£70.00

Vitus Sommet VR

The Sommet VR isn’t perfect, but sure is killer value, and can do a job that’s virtually unique at this price point

£1700.00

1 2 Next