Syncros AM1.5 stem

UNUSUALLY, SYNCROS USE Torx T25 bolts throughout. These are less likely to round than conventional 4mm Allen bolts, but older/cheaper multi-tools sometimes lack the tool needed to adjust them. The recommended torque setting is a minimal 5Nm, which we found insufficient to stop the stem spinning on the steerer in our indoor tests.

It twisted after a small crash when out riding too. The bolts are heavily coated in threadlock, which is unnecessary and reduces the clamping force for a given torque. We found that we could nip them up tighter without issue though, which solved the twisting problem. The 45mm stack height is the tallest on test, which leaves less room for bar height adjustment but keeps things plenty stiff despite the low weight.

WEIGHT: 131g (40x35mm)
LENGTH(S): 40, 50, 90mm
CLAMPS(S): 35mm

Price 75$

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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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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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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