Mavic Crossmax 8.5 hydration pack

When you’re as big a brand as Mavic, it would be all too easy to simply stamp your name on any old bag, but the French wheelsmiths have applied their typical attention to detail to this 8.5l enduro-style pack.

Even with a full bladder (included) inserted there are still two cavernous full-length pockets, the outer of which is sectioned for tools. There’s a helmet net tucked away, a loop for a rear light and a tidy exterior pocket ideal for instant-access items like goggles. The wide shoulder and waist straps make this one of the most comfy packs on test. We also like the pared-back looks and secure fit. While there’s no plastic clip for the drinking hose, it’s cleverly looped round so that you can slurp at shoulder height with ease.

BLADDER? Yes

SPINE PROTECTION? No

Price 142$

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.

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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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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

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