Uvex Jakkil HDE helmet

Designed with input from former 4X world champion Michal Prokop, Uvex’s new convertible full/half-shell helmet promises lightweight, cool and versatile protection for enduro racers. It certainly delivers on the first count, with a fibreglass chinguard helping to give an all-in weight of just 667g (M-XL size). It looks like it should be pretty airy too, with 13 vents and a deeply channelled EPS liner. A Boa ratchet at the back gives a wide range of fit adjustment, and goggle compatibility looks good too, thanks to the adjustable peak and retaining clip at the back. If, like us, you’re a little unsure about the Jakkyl’s multicoloured look, you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s also available in two more subtle designs.

Price $240

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.

READ MORE >>

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.

READ MORE >>

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

READ MORE >>