We’ve got a range of different goodies in this week, starting with new, reasonably priced photochromatic sunglasses from dhb and new Garmin devices which allow the use of Trailforks and measure how far you jump. We’re also testing custom frame protection and mudguards from Slicy and a dropper post from PNW that also has some … Read more
The O’Neal Trailfinder is a mid-priced trail helmet that has modern looks and plenty of protection. While it offers the essentials, such as a good adjustable peak and a goggle-friendly rear section, it lacks finesse and can get a bit warm thanks to less than brilliant venting. 100% Trajecta helmet review Giro Fixture MIPS helmet … Read more
Following in the footsteps of competitor, Fox, RockShox has unveiled the ZEB. Using a similar 38mm stanchion the ZEB is built with stiffness at the forefront of its design. It’s aimed at enduro riders who are looking for that bit extra to get them through the stage as quickly, and comfortably as possible. Your complete … Read more
Rockrider is Decathlon’s mountain bike brand and this ST900 hardtail delivers up all the value we’ve come to expect, with a single ring, 11-speed wide-range drivetrain, RockShox fork and proper hydraulic brakes for not a lot of cash. That’s all great, but true mountain biking ability is undermined by steep and short geometry, making this best left … Read more
The Brand-X Ascend XL is a well priced, nicely made and cleanly designed cable-actuated dropper post that works reliably. It’s simple to fit and has a good remote lever, while the seat clamp is similarly no-nonsense. The long lower section won’t suit small or kinked seat tubes, however, and it’s relatively heavy. KS Lev Ci … Read more
The 7 Protection Sam Hill Knee pads are designed in part with arguably one of the greatest riders of all time. They are an excellent enduro and trail kneepad for those who like it slimline, but still want plenty of protection. They’re super-secure for ‘sleeve’ style pads, though they can be too stiff in cold … Read more
Developed with downhill World Cup racer Aaron Gwinn, the Kenda Pinner Pro in the AGC casing is a hard hitting, tough and tacky tyre built for gravity-fed riding. It’s great for hard, fast, dry and rocky tracks, but it’s not designed for anything else – ride it in mud, loose dust or changeable UK conditions … Read more
Shimano’s oft-derided SPD sandal has a place close to the heart of many a cycle tourer, but for some, it seems that only one toe-showing shoe will do; the Birkenstock sandal. While roaming the internet, we’ve discovered quite the subculture of sandal-modding, so strap on and clip in… Buyer’s guide to mountain bike and gravel shoes … Read more
Brought back into action in 2019, the Lazer Impala MIPS is a trail helmet that offers good value, superb comfort and a range of features. The straps are a bit slippery and it’s not the coolest, but the price makes these things bearable. Buyer’s guide to mountain bike helmets: get the best bike helmet for … Read more
While cross-country racing has fallen out of the limelight with the rise of enduro, there are still plenty of hardcore riders and racers looking to shave every last gram from their bikes. Miche’s K1 Carbon 29″ wheels can certainly help there, tipping the scales at just 1,411g for the pair, complete with tubeless kit installed. … Read more
