SRAM X7 transmission

X7 IS THE cheapest way to get most of SRAM's latest 10-speed mech and shifter updates and it's a positive, secure set-up for fans of double or triple chainrings.

The 89$ Type 2 rear mech costs 22$ more than a standard X7 mech. That gets you a tension-increasing clutch spring to tame the chain on rough descents though. You also get SRAM's cunning Cage Lock latch, which takes the clutch out of the equation for easy wheel removal/insertion. The steel inner cage and linkages make it tougher than more expensive semi-composite SRAM mechs too.

The front mech works OK and comes in a full range of formats, and the PG-1050 cassette is reasonably robust and clean shifting. The PC-1050 chain comes with a handy PowerLink for easy joining too.

The twin-position shifter mount is compatible with all the usual SRAM MatchMaker combo mounts for fork, shock and dropper seatpost remotes. The metal thumb lever drives a solid downshift that helps overcome the extra clutch resistance too.

Unfortunately, the pivots and jockey wheels wear more quickly and overall shifting degrades significantly faster in filthy conditions than with Shimano's XT transmission kit, which is the closest match for X7 in terms of both weight and price.

WEIGHT 1,300g

FORMAT 2x10

PRICE 344$ (w/ Type 2 mech)

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.

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Nukeproof Vector AM Comp Cro-Mo saddle

The Vector AM is pretty race focused, with minimal padding. There’s a deep (if narrow) pressurerelief channel to keep the blood flowing where it’s meant to. Used with bib shorts, we found it pretty comfortable for shorter rides and suffered no pain or discomfort in the central region. On steep climbs the slightly downturned nose provides a reasonable forward perch, while the svelte profile and smooth edges make it particularly unobtrusive when moving about on the descents. It’s quite stiff though, and can feel harsh on long rides or bumpy ground. We definitely wouldn’t want to spend much time on it without a chamois. It’s heavier than we’d expect for such a lightly padded perch too. There’s a lighter Pro version with titanium rails for $105, but at 241g it’s only 10g lighter. Weight 251g Price $67

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GT Zaskar Evolution

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Cannondale Trail SL 29 SS

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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.

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All Arround MTB

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