All Arround MTB

These two saddles from Gusset form part of the UK brand’s new‘S2’ range of premium products. Due for release in early 2018, they’ve been designed to be functional, good looking and wallet friendly. Both use nylon bases, chromoly rails and slim padding with a central relief channel for pedalling comfort. Strips of PU material on the cover add wet weather grip. The AM model weighs 283g and costs $67, while the SM, at 254g and $45, is a smaller version for younger riders. Gusset are also releasing a dirt jump model designed in conjunction with UK slopestyle star and MBUK columnist Matt Jones. Price $45

Gusset’s R-series saddle is available for a very reasonable $40 with a stitched three-piece cover (as seen here) or an even more reasonable $37 if you can live with a one-piece vinyl finish. It’s available in nine colours/designs, including this rather fetching camo version for those who like the jungle-stealth look. Hollow chromoly rails (rather than the basic steel often found at this price) mean weight is decent, at 266g. The shape is quite supportive, thanks to the upturned tail, and there’s a good amount of flex in the hull. There’s not much of a pressure-relief groove though, and the nose sticks up a bit more than on most saddles, which we found uncomfortable at times when climbing. Price $40

THE UPDATED VERSION of Gusset's aggro all-rounder holds its position in our cockpit charts as well as it holds your position on the trail. The 760mm width boosts steering leverage and there are cut marks if you keep clipping trees.

SO GOOD Gusset’s 50mm stem is nicely CNC machined from 7075 alloy and the faceplate and internal steerer clamp are available in a range of five anodised colours to complement the black body. The hidden steerer clamp keeps sharp edges to a minimum and removes stress from the body of the stem. Out on the bike, the stem proved flex free and bombproof.

GUSSET’S CHUTE HAS been around for a while and bears a strong resemblance to the original Avid Juicy. That’s no bad thing, as the Juicy was always a reliable brake – and so is the Chute – plus it means it’s easy to find spares for.