ODI Elite Motion Lock-On Grips

As one of the longest-running and well-renowned grip manufacturers, you’d expect these lock-on grips from ODI to perform. Part of the Elite range, these Motion versions are designed to be super slim with a low profile knurl pattern and they work flawlessly. Review: VEL Silicone grips – lightweight, low profile non-lock on grips Buyer’s guide to … Read more

Vel Silicone Grip

These super light grips from VEL offer simplicity over everything. No lock on, no dual compounds, just a foam sleeve that is just shaped and finished at the ends, with a slight chamfer on the edge. Review: ODI Elite Flow Lock-On grips The best apps for mountain bikers – Android and iPhone Buyer’s guide to … Read more

Vitus Sommet VR

The 155mm rear travel Sommet is Vitus’ enduro/all mountain bike available in both aluminium and carbon frame options. This well-specced VR version is the cheapest, but it still nails the essentials for smashing around the woods or dipping your toes into enduro racing. With quality RockShox suspension and essentials like a dropper post and grippy tyres, … Read more

Specialized Andorra Comp Shorts

The Andorra Comp women’s shorts from big bike brand Specialized are a neatly designed and workmanlike pair of mountain bike shorts erring towards XC missions or gravel bike adventures.  Review – We look at the matching Spesh women’s jersey Winter riding kit essentials – our Buyer’s Guide is here The Andorra Comp shorts from Spesh are, like … Read more

Michelin Force AM Tyre

If you’re after a fast and tough tyre that works well on dry, hardpacked trails, the Michelin Force AM is a capable choice, but it lacks the bite needed for an aggressive front tyre and it’s definitely not one to reach for if things get remotely wet and muddy.  Review: Specialized Butcher 2.6″ tyre Buyer’s guide to … Read more

Off-Road Arrivals

This week has passed by in a bit of a blur with office talk being mostly road orientated as the skinny wheeled half of the team (plus our Rachael) prepare for the RedBull Timelaps this weekend – a 25 hour road race in Windsor Great Park. As we try to cocoon ourselves behind a fort of mountain bike … Read more

Squirt Lube

Squirt Lube is a 100% biodegradable wax and water emulsion that dries to the chain and forms a ‘long-lasting lubricant’. It can be used for wet or dry riding and, assuming you follow the instructions, it works and lasts well. Review: Altura Mayhem 2 waterproof jacket – a good budget with only a couple of foibles The … Read more

Love downhill? Love print? You’ll be needing the Hurly Burly Yearbook

We’re rather partial to the pleasures of the printed word and picture here at off.road.cc and we also like our downhill racing, so the release of the 2017 Hurly Burly Downhill Yearbook has made us very happy. Review: Troy Lee Designs A2 MIPS helmet Buyer’s guide to mountain bikes: how much to spend and what type to … Read more

Video: Unboxing the Saracen Ariel Elite

We’ve been eager to get our hands on the new Saracen Ariel and finally, it’s here! We’ve just taken delivery of the 2018 Ariel Elite, that’s the aluminium version of the 165mm trail slayer in what is just a two bike lineup. Rachael’s going to be swinging a leg over this one, check out the … Read more

Talking the future of gravel riding with Kona

Our Benedict recently took part in Kona’s multipurpose drop-bar bike launch and had the chance to speak with Kona’s product manager, Joe Brown, about what’s driving the current enthusiasm for gravel and adventure bikes and where they might be heading.  First Ride: Kona Rove NRB First Ride: Kona Sutra LTD Buyers guide: gravel & adventure … Read more