Urge Endur-O-Matic helmet

Extensive coverage makes this the most full-face-esque trail helmet we’ve worn. It extends furthest down behind the ears, and while the lack of ventilation leads to a hot ride, the continuous shell of the Urge inspires confidence. Be aware that it sizes up large – we wore the biggest size but felt like it could fit a larger (or more spherical) head, perhaps due to the lack of lateral padding. While the flexible peak is among the longest here and isn’t adjustable, it didn’t obstruct our view and doesn’t feel like it would cause trouble in a crash. The BOA retention system extends well below the skull, providing a secure fit without digging in, although it can be a challenge getting it tight enough. And hats off to Urge for making the helmet from mainly recycled materials. A MIPS version is available for $30 more.

Weight 349g
Sizing S/M, L/XL

Price $135

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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