Sram Code RSC brakes

SRAM’s high-powered Code brakes used to be aimed exclusively at downhillers, but with enduro riders tackling mega-steep descents and 20kg+ e-mtbs needing to be slowed down, we can see the new version transcending multiple disciplines. The all-new lever is based on their popular Guide brake but bigger (with a 30 per cent higher positive fluid volume), while the once chunky calliper is more refined and bears a striking resemblance to the ‘S4’ unit used on the Guide Ultimate. The main difference is that the Code has a larger pair of leading pistons (they’re 15mm, while the second pair remain 16mm). It also gets SRAM’s nifty ‘Bleeding Edge’ port, which limits faff when bleeding. All of these changes boost power by 15 per cent over the Guide RSC. The top-end Code RSC brakes gets reach and contact point adjust, the Swinglink, lighter hardware and phenolic pistons.

Price $345 (per end, including rotor)

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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