Hope AM/Freeride 35mm stem

WEIGHING IN AT 130g, this stumpy stem is machined from 2014-T6 aluminium at Hope's Lancashire factory and accepts a 31.8mm diameter handlebar. It's available in 0 and 20-degree rise options, and both 35 and 50mm lengths.

The broad handlebar clamp offers rock solid support for wide bars, and the faceplate is securely attached with four 4mm Allen bolts, with recommended torque settings etched by each bolt hole.

Our 35mm version feels stiff and has remained creak free even after months of hard use. It doesn't do it any harm that it looks bloody good too.

PRICE 120$

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 >>

RockShox Pike 26

Waaaay back in 2002, RockShox revolutionized the suspension world with the release of its Psylo range of forks. The forks came with 30mm stanchions, a lockout/compression adjustment, the travel was adjustable from 80-120mm, and......wait for it, they came with a quick release 20mm through axle.

READ MORE >>

Sam Reynolds' Polygon Collosus N9

WHO IS SAM REYNOLDS? Hailing from South East England, Sam Reynolds is one of the UK's top freeriders, specialising in dirt jumping and slopestyle. But with mates like World Cup downhiller Brendan Fairclough, he also likes to get up to speed in the hills, where he's been introducing the Collosus to some colossal jumps, gaps and drops.

READ MORE >>

CANYON NERVE AL 8.0

S ince their entry into the UK market a few years ago, Canyon have made a name for themselves as purveyors of well-made bikes that exhibit often extraordinary value. The secret (or catch, depending on your point of view) is that the brand don’t have dealers – they ship bikes directly to your door.

READ MORE >>

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 >>

All Arround MTB

Search This Blog