SKS SAM shock pump review

The SKS SAM (which stands for Suspension Air Mechanic) shock pump is really solidly built, can handle up to 360psi, and has a clever two-stage connection valve. Unfortunately it falls short of the competition on both price and portability. Your complete guide to the RockShox fork range  Trail essentials – all the kit you need … Read more

Evoc Seat Pack Boa L review

We’ve given Evoc’s Seat Pack Boa L a thorough testing over six months. It’s really easy to mount so it doesn’t waggle, at 3L it holds the perfect amount of stuff for a good day out, and it’s waterproof with the added bonus of acting as mudguard. Unfortunately, all the good work is undone by … Read more

Ritchey WCS Pave Bar Tape review

Ritchey WCS Pave Bar Tape is reasonably thick at 3.5mm, and helps make a more comfortable ride on gravel and adventure bikes. It isn’t the easiest to wrap around tight bends, although the silicone backing (rather than glue) means it’s at least easy to keep re-doing or even reuse. Your complete guide to bikepacking – … Read more

O’Neal Trailfinder Pants review

The Trailfinder Pants from O’Neal are a simple and wallet-friendly pair of (if you’re from the UK) trousers. What they lack in features they make up for with excellent fit and some serious comfort. They downside is they struggle both to vent heat on warm days and keep hold of it when it’s cold. 100% … Read more

9point8 Stout stem review

A tough, short and solid stem from 9point8, the Stout is a respectable weight and feels reliable and tough when riding. Funn Equalizer stem review RaceFace Turbine R 35 stem review The best mountain bike handlebar grips you can buy – tried and tested Using 7075 aluminium with a claimed higher strength-to-weight ratio than 6061, … Read more

5 cool things from Merida, Spinergy, Microshift, Specialized and Brooks

After a week off, and fewer deliveries than normal (!) we are back with five very cool things in on test. We’ve got another set of Spinergy wheels, an evolution of the ‘string’ spoke wheels, new shoes from Specialized and a wide range 1×9 speed drivetrain from MicroSHIFT, plus more. Dig in…. Your complete guide to the … Read more