Alpkit Stem Cell bar bag

We’ve been using Alpkit’s bar-mounted bags for long rides and multi-day adventures since they first appeared. The latest, more minimal, version does away with the previous outer stretchy mesh pocket and is squared off at the base. Trimmable Velcro straps paired with a sewn-in webbing ladder give a choice of mounting options.

The fabric is tough and durable, and sheds water and dirt with ease. It’s not totally waterproof, due to the elasticated drawcord opening, but this does allow one-handed access (a roll-top version is available for $45). There’s space for a 500ml water bottle, or a phone, camera and several handfuls of trail mix.

Price $42

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

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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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GT Zaskar Evolution

While some bike models last just a couple of years, others change with the times to stay at the top of riders’ wishlists. In the second part of this series looking at the evolution of bikes that enjoy enduring popularity with UK riders, we turn to the GT Zaskar – a bike that was at the forefront of our sport for a long time and still has plenty of appeal today.

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TREK FUEL EX 6 29

Ever-popular trail bike gets bigger wheels for 2014 T rek’s full-suspension range has been given a bit of a rejig for 2014, with a long-awaited 29er version of the ever-popular Fuel EX taking the place of the Rumblefish that was inherited when Trek took over the old Gary Fisher line-up. It’s worth noting that the Fuel EX is still available with good old 26in wheels too – something that’s suddenly not very common any more.

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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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All Arround MTB

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