Bontrager Rhythm shorts

Just putting the Rhythm shorts on makes you think of summer – they’re lightweight, with a baggy cut and a good long leg length. The fit is generous so if you’re between sizes you’ll probably want to go down one (there are six to choose from).

The waist can be adjusted using internal hook-and-loop tabs but if you have to pull it in too far it forms a loop in the fabric on the outside. Slinging a belt through the provided loops helps avoid this. There are pockets aplenty, including a zipped thigh pocket and a cargo pocket.We liked the uber-relaxed feel of this style, but you’ll need to take care if you’re prone to saddle snags.We were impressed by Bontrager’s mesh liner and happy to wear it under other baggies – the pad feels firm but doesn’t ride that way.

Liner: Yes

Price 120$

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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