Blackspire MonoVeloce WP chainring

BLACKSPIRE ARE ONE of several companies producing single chainrings inspired by SRAM's outwardly simple but actually super-cunning and extremely effective chain-retaining alternating narrow-wide tooth design.

Despite Canadian machined manufacture it's 35$ to 50$ cheaper than official SRAM spares, with prices ranging from 40$ to 75$ depending on size. It holds the chain securely without obvious extra noise or drag, and wear life is good. This 30t version is offset inboard to clear the crank spider, and bolt receivers are machined into the ring to simplify tightening. Green, red and blue anodised versions are also available.

PRICE 65$ (30t/104mm BCD)

Cannondale Trail SL 29 SS

The fat aluminium tubes are a constrast to the skinny items seen elsewhere in the test, but this rigid Cannondale uses them to create one of the most old-school - and lightest - rides here.

READ MORE >>

KONA SHRED

With a reputation for no-nonsense ruggedness and a background in the always progressive and punishing riding of Canada, Kona have been building hardcore hardtails for longer than almost anyone else. The Shred is the most expensive bike on test but it’s a proper trail tank.

READ MORE >>

SKS Airbuster CO2 inflator

The alloy Airbuster has a large knob so you can regulate the flow of gas, a mechanical stop to prevent the cartridge being pierced in transit and a dust cap to keep the valve free of debris. While it works with Presta and Schrader valves, switching between them requires a fiddly change of the valve head. The thin rubber sleeve doesn’t provide much protection from cold spent canisters. You can’t insert much of the valve into the inflator head, so you have to be careful to avoid leaks. Price $33 w/16g cartridge

READ MORE >>