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

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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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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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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