Maxxis Tomahawk EXO 3C 27.5x2.3in tyre

Tubeless inflation of the new Tomahawk is blissfully easy. Even the Double Down DH version still fits wide rims without a fight and both casings come in 26in as well as 650b and 29in sizes.

While it’s not particularly light (820g EXO 3C, 1,010g DD) the widely spaced flat tread on the crown rolls fast and the supple yet tough carcasses hold momentum and consistent contact over rocks and roots. Sudden braking or power can unstick it easily though – particularly in damp conditions – and the angular side knobs tend to drift early on loose surfaces. With only premium triple-compound versions currently available, it’s expensive too.

Price 81$

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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