Shimano M163 SPD shoes

The m163s feature Shimano’s new Torbal technology, which allows the back portion of the sole to flex laterally. Considering how stiff and efficient these shoes feel under power, we were surprised by just how surefooted and comfortable they felt when we were really throwing the bike around on the trail.

We were also able to get a more rearward cleat placement than has traditionally been possible on Shimano shoes, thanks to the Big S extending the cleat slots on all of their new trail/enduro shoes, and this gave a further boost in terms of handling confidence. The grippy rubber compound used on the toe and mid-foot area means off-bike walking isn’t a problem, even on slick rocks and roots.

Comfort is right up there with the best of them too. There’s enough volume to prevent tight spots and the twin hook-and-loop straps coupled with a single ratchet strap make for a secure, hot-spot free fit. We did find the upper creased a little after fully tightening the ratchet strap but this caused no discomfort on the trail.

Price 165$

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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Merida Big Nine 100

Wit the bikes swapped over, we head out on the same loop again, this time on the 29in Big Nine 100. Whereas the Big Seven was snappy off the line, the 29er takes a couple more pedal strokes to get up to speed. That said, once it's up there, it's easy to keep the big wheels rolling, allowing us to cover ground with ease. The fire road is at times a little rough, and the bigger wheels roll over the imperfections so we barely notice them.

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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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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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All Arround MTB

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