Mick Kirkman

Contributor/tester

squirt low temperature chain lube

Squirt also offers this Squirt Low Temperature Chain lube that’s great for the UK. It costs more than normal Squirt (and more expensive than rival lubes).

best mountain bike handlebars

Pro Tharis 9.8 is a solid and dependable aluminium bar that’s ultra-stiff and hasn’t missed a beat over 100 of kms and various test bike duties.

Shimano Saint flat pedals have new, bigger cold-forged platforms, but a slimmer chromoly axle and more sculpting means they’re lighter than previously.

best mountain bike wheels

South Industries Enduro rims weigh 495g each in 29-er size with sidewalls rocking a 3mm thick hookless bead lip and an internal width of 31mm.

specialized conceal carry swat

Specialized Conceal Carry SWAT tool hides essentials inside your headtube and includes a lightweight multi-tool and proper threaded chain breaker.

F.A.T. two-layer face foam and performance mirrored lenses make this the go-to model for the average rider who likes goggles instead of glasses.

best plus bikes 2019

The rugged Trek Full Stache 8 can pretty much go anywhere and roll over anything, making it the human-powered equivalent of a Land Rover.

shimano gr9

Supple Shimano GR9 feels pretty invisible on your foot, with a planted sole that gives good pedal feedback, but it’s not that supportive or locked in place.

shimano gr7

The Shimano GR7 has a new, high-grip Michelin sole and uses laces rather than a tensioning loop system and also has a neoprene ankle collar.

Giro Jacket II Flat

The Giro Jacket II Flat shoe is one of the cheapest, but with a gumwall sole, thick tongue and heel pads and tough materials, the finish doesn’t look cheap.

five ten impact pro

This new Five Ten Impact Pro incorporates Five Ten’s latest improvements for weight saving, improved drying times and maximum toughness.

bontrager flatline

The Bontrager Flatline shoe has good grip, flexes enough so you can feel the pedal and it’s hardwearing. It’s not perfect though.

Bontrager SE5

The Bontrager SE5 enduro tyre is brand new in this chubby, 2.6in, width. The Team Issue version is a heavy duty, tubeless ready model.