the logistics specialist
the cameraman Dale Womack is a Rampage riders’ lines or drop debris.
veteran who’s been involved “Nothing is ever easy at
since 2008. His job is site Rampage, from apocalyptic
prep, which begins at the top weather to heat, sand and
of the mountain, with the dust,” says Womack. “Come
start gate. After inspection event day, I switch hats
and some brainstorming, into competition mode. I’m
it’s time to get a supply list usually on the edge of the
together. In the old days, biggest drops. Safety is my
the logistics team carried concern now – is the area
things to the top, but now below clear of dig tools,
a helicopter drops loads, stray rocks or people? You’ll
which is safer on these also find me tossing dirt into
gradients. A bird’s nest-type the air for wind-checks and
structure is needed up top, yelling ‘rider dropping’!” He
as the winds can be double adds: “Every year the riders
what’s forecast. Up next come back and astonish us
is the branding – placing again. The worst part is the
banners where they’ll be wrecks; the violence when
seen by the cameras. This these guys crash can never
requires the crew to hang truly be represented – the
or abseil off cliff faces, while sound of bones breaking
trying not to interfere with is like a gunshot.”
Aaron Whitley, aka Ae Ron, show. “I hiked the mountain,
has covered 12 out of 15 mapping out the lines in
Rampages with Freeride detail, then input the info
Entertainment. “This event for 3D volume,” he explains.
has produced some iconic “We’ve won an Emmy
memories,” he says. “There for this work in the past,
are so many amazing things and it’s been pretty wild
that my eyes and lens have working with the crew on
witnessed. The worst are this cutting-edge tech.” It’s
the injuries, seeing a rider not all plain sailing, though.
go down.” Usually, Ae Ron “The problems come in
is the ‘story camera’ for the bunches, from mega dust to
event, showing up early to rainstorms, when we have
record the digging of lines to protect the expensive
and document the riders’ gear vital for producing an
backstories, working with event of this scale.” He adds:
the director, Jeremy Grant, “Originally five cameras
to put together vignettes for with a guy hanging out of
the live show and the Red a heli for the aerials, now
Bull Signature Series, then 20 cameras with drones,
heading to the top to film cable-cams and heli-
the action. This year, he was mounted gimbals, shooting
the producer for the virtual live to the world – Rampage
reality component of the live has come a long way!”
Mountain Biking UK
the family
Imagine what it’s like to their dad. It’s tough on the commentators
stand on course and watch the mama heart strings,
your spouse ride Rampage. to say the least.” Amanda This pair know what they’re around. He’s just one crazy
Amanda Zink has been accepts that crashes are talking about, with Aaron mofo who seems to survive
doing it for 10 events now, part of the sport, but the Chase’s (left) background every flip, spin or crash!” For
previously witnessing her thought of a long-term as a pro freerider and Brad Brad, it’s the improvement
husband Cam win the injury haunts her, having Jay having covered some of in the level of riding that
event, but also suffer some watched her high school the biggest sports events on really impresses – the bar
horrendous crashes. This friend Paul Basagoitia have the planet, from Crankworx has been raised, along with
year, their two children, a life-altering accident at and the X Games to the the stakes and potential for
Ayla and Asher, were at her Rampage in 2015. This Olympics. Aaron is ‘Mr carnage: “Nothing compares
side. Amanda says that year, Cam bent down and GoPro’, out on course talking to Red Bull Rampage!”
while she’s standing on kissed his children, then hit lines with riders while filming The downtime and delays
the hill, the mantra “Lord, a massive drop for the first for the Red Bull Signature between runs mean these
please protect him” runs time – and crashed hard. Series. He says he enjoys two have to be on top of
over and over in her mind. “It sounded and looked being behind the lens more their game, adding titbits of
When it was just Cam and horrific,” says Amanda. than in front of it, as it gives rider info, stories or insight
her, the risks were huge, but “Others had to come and him insights into the riders’ into line choice to keep the
now they’re a family, the help me comfort the kids, personalities. “Watching fans entertained. As for the
emotions are at an all-time as they were extremely Zink is unbelievable,” he future of the event, Aaron
high. “As the kids get older, shaken. Watching their says. “He has a ‘mind over reckons it’s time to mix
they’re becoming more dad attempt it another two matter’ switch unlike that of things up, with some new
aware of the danger,” she times, we prayed together. any other athlete I’ve been venues and new terrain.
says. “It’s been another When he walked away
challenge to comfort them, with fourth place and only
as they’re also riddled bruised lungs it felt like
with anxiety watching a victory to us.”
Mountain Biking UK
the drone pilot
The heavy-lift Freefly Alta X precipitation or any loss of photography Corey Koniniec
drone used for aerial views at line-of-sight, we abort and – and the result, Drew says,
this year’s Rampage was on bring the bird home. It doesn’t is “crazy stabilized views
its maiden voyage and is the happen often, but safety is our produced at a 240mm focal
biggest used at the event. This priority.” A five-axis, carbon- range while flying at 25mph
technical marvel can achieve fibre gimbal stabiliser unit above the rider”. The drone
speeds of over 50mph and houses a Panasonic LUMIX is able to livestream footage,
can carry up to 55lb. US law GH5S camera sporting a in this case over T-Mobile’s
means it must remain under Fujinon 20-120mm lens with an 5G network, while also
400ft, where it has 12 minutes M4/3 sensor. Add the skilled recording it for use in post-
of flight time with this load. It crew from Motion State and edits. “Use of drones really
can handle adverse conditions, Wild Rabbit Aerials – also enhances the perspective,”
but pilot Drew Roberts says: comprising drone tech Nathan says Drew. “They bring the
“Winds over 35mph, heavier Labruzza and director of action closer to the viewers.”
Mountain Biking UK
MINE
C AFT
PRO SNOWBOARDER TURNED MOUNTAIN BIKER
HANNES KLAUSNER GOES IN SEARCH OFTRUE
FREERIDEIN HIS AUSTRIAN HOMELAND,AND
FINDS IT BY GETTINGCREATIVE IN ABANDONED
MINES AND QUARRIES
Words Hannes Klausner Photos Christoph Breiner
Mountain Biking UK
Mountain Biking UK
Mountain Biking UK
reeride is Kamloops of an eye. All just to get to the top and check out a line,
scree slopes, North sometimes only to find it wasn’t possible to get down
Shore stunts and Utah’s in one piece.
endless opportunities.
It’s the media circus of Red Bull The here and now
Rampage, the battles of the FMB
World Tour and the outlaw attitude There it was, hidden in plain sight – a land of endless
of the FEST Series. To me, it’s sandy hills, super-steep chutes and natural rock
more than that, though. Way more. faces, on open terrain in the middle of Europe’s
It’s unlimited freedom, boundless monstrous Alps, just waiting to be discovered. This
creativity and absolute authenticity. network of closed mines and abandoned quarries
It’s about being yourself, riding how you was the perfect playground.
want to in the moment, looking beyond
the usual boundaries and broadening If seeking out new lines is fundamental to freeride,
the horizon in every kind of way. That then so is the rush of emotions you get from riding
doesn’t have to mean travelling the them. The nerves I felt looking down at a steep run
world – it can just involve taking a
closer look at your surroundings to through big rocks that had never
discover something that’s been right in been ridden before. The beating of
front of you all along. my heart before I let go of the brakes,
With overseas travel not being as easy as it used to not knowing if the line would work the
be, I decided to set out on a roadtrip across Austria in way I hoped. The feeling of speed
search of a new big-bike adventure. My homeland is building up in the blink of an eye.
known for its bike parks and mountain singletrack, but The focus and concentration. That
I was looking for true freeride – as it used to be at the release of happiness when I reached
very beginning of the sport that changed my life. I found the exit. The quick glance back up and
it in a place so steep and loose that it was hard to even instant decision to do it again, despite
get to a point I could ride from. A place where I felt the having said I’d only do it once. Those
weight of the bike on my shoulders getting heavier step moments when nothing else exists
by step as I hiked up, moving two steps forward and one but here and now.
step back through deep, loose gravel that made every
stride hurt. And where, as I picked my way up slippery In between conquering these lines
rocks, everything could have gone wrong in the blink that scared me, there was also time to
play around, drifting natural berms and
doing simple tricks off barely-shaped
lips. But there were setbacks, too.
Locations that looked promising online
Main Sometimes Above left For Top You can find
it was a feat in Hannes, freeride lines in unexpected
itself just getting means absolute places, near and far,
to the top of authenticity and if you’re willing to
a possible line unbridled freedom search them out
Mountain Biking UK
Main There’s always but didn’t deliver, crashes that could have ended a lot
the fear to conquer worse but made me think more than was helpful, bad
when you look down weather that nearly caused me to stop the whole trip. Of
on a steep line that’s course, that’s all part of the adventure called freeride!
never been ridden
This trip was all about these moments of exhaustion,
Above The mix of of fear, of relief and of excitement, but it was also about
feelings Hannes the simple freedom of hassle-free hours spent driving
my van on almost never-ending roads with only one
experiences while destination in mind – the next riding spot. That’s what
freeriding fuels his freeride is for me – freedom. The freedom to live the
ceaseless pursuit of sport the way I want. The freedom to ride my bike where
the next great spot I choose, even if no one’s done it before. Free line choice
in a land of trails. First lines in a land of bike parks. ‘Free
riding’ in the fullest sense of the phrase. A feeling that
can’t compare with anything else.
Mountain Biking UK
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SLOPESTYLE PRO SAM HODGSON HAS TRADED REARING COWS FOR BUILDING BERMS
AS HE CULTIVATES THE ISLE OF WIGHT’S MTB SCENE THROUGH THE BIKE PARK HE'S CREATED
ON HIS FAMILY FARM, ALONGSIDE FRIEND AND BUSINESS PARTNER MATT TOWNSEND
Words: Ed Thomsett Pics: Steve Behr
Mountain Biking UK
“JUST GIVE ME
A COUPLE OF RUNS
TO WARM UP,”
shouts Sam Hodgson from the start wasn't regarded as much of an MTB it down and rebuild it bigger. “But not
ramp at the top of his jump spot. destination. Sam does admit to “not without a lot of overshoots and cases
Clipping up his helmet and kicking his being a massive fan of comps,” but we along the way,” he adds with a laugh.
cranks into position, he drops in a few can’t help feeling he’ll find himself in More than just a canvas for new ideas,
seconds later, and there’s a whoosh the limelight pretty soon if he mops Sam believes that running the MTB
as he flies past, pumps into the over- up any more awards like the ‘King of centre helps to keep him level and
head-height wooden kicker and lofts Darkness’ trophy he brought back takes the pressure off his riding. “If I’m
an enormous corked backflip. Soaring from the monster-scale South African putting too much energy into one then
way above the skyline of the hills jump jam DarkFEST earlier this year. I can take a step back and focus on
beyond, if Sam wasn’t upside-down the other,” he says. “And it means I’m
he’d be treated to a perfect bird’s-eye “Honestly, I’d have been stoked always hungry for the next thing.”
view across Cheverton Farm – the even if I came last, just as long as I’d
730 acres of cattle, sheep and arable had fun there,” says Sam. He goes on It takes two
land where he grew up and honed the to explain that beating other people
skills we’re witnessing today. Farming has never been his goal, and if he With such an overflow of energy and
runs in the Hodgson blood, with Sam’s does end up being one of the best two-wheeled talent, it’s easy to let
parents and brother still actively in the world, “then I’d want it to be Sam’s flamboyant charisma steal the
working the land. For this dirt jump through having fun and hanging out show, but the reality is that the bike
protégé, though, as his love of bikes with awesome people.” centre wouldn’t exist at all if it weren’t
developed and his aptitude for riding for his best friend and co-founder,
became apparent, an alternative Can you dig it? Matt Townsend. Matt is the other half
future grew in his mind – to turn of the show, and while his résumé
the uncultivatable woods and steep This relaxed outlook is the reason may not stretch to double backflips,
valleys of the farm into what’s now the why, for Sam, being a pro rider (he his versatile skill set and relentless
Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre. previously rode for Saracen and joined work ethic have played no small part
It’s why we find ourselves being taken DMR in October 2020) works so well in getting the centre to where it is
on a guided tour of this enviable alongside the distraction of building now. While we’ve all been out enjoying
backyard, while beholding some of the the sun, Matt’s been back in the
most impressive trick bag-emptying SAM’S APPROACH IS cabin taking care of the admin and
we’ve ever seen. TO BUILDSOMETHING planning the next phase of trails to
THAT CHALLENGES be built, which will be facilitated by
Trick time HIM, CONQUER IT, a healthy wedge of grant money he’s
THEN KNOCK IT DOWN just managed to secure from British
Over the course of the next 30 & REBUILDIT BIGGER Cycling and Sport England.
minutes, Sam shows off his full
repertoire of flip and tailwhip and running a bike park. “I’ll go away Sam and Matt couldn’t be more
variations, inverted spins, Superman travelling, then always come back with contrasting as characters, but they’ve
seatgrabs and more, all thrown down loads of fresh ideas,” he explains, “and been mates since school and their
on cue and with textbook execution the farm means I’ve got the space to strengths complement one another
first time. We’ve ridden with a fair few get creative.” Digging has always been perfectly. Both get their hands dirty
big names in our time, and it’s not a staple of Sam’s progression – his when it comes to spadework, and the
often you see even the top dogs riding approach is to build something that benefit of being a pair is that there’s
at this level and with such dialled challenges him, conquer it, then knock always someone to bounce ideas off,
consistency. Snapper Steve is in his plus Matt’s awareness of the planning
element and Sam’s happy to oblige. and business elements allows Sam
“We’re farming bangers!” he exclaims, the freedom to work his magic behind
squinting at the camera viewfinder the controls of the digger.
Steve holds out, before fist-bumping
him and running back up to the start This afternoon we get our chance
ramp, even more fired up than before. to sample what the pair have been
It’s remarkable that 22-year-old
Sam’s insane skills haven’t garnered
wider recognition, but perhaps that
has something to do with the Isle of
Wight’s separation from the rest of
the UK and the fact that, until the
bike park came along, the island
Flipping a bike is
something many riders
dream of, but for Sam
it's just a warm-up
Mountain Biking UK
Sam and his best mate/park THE ISLE OF WIGHT
co-founder Matt Townsend have
grand ideas for their venue MOUNTAIN BIKE
Ed drops the hammer, CENTRE
determined to not get
dropped by a dirt jumper Built on the Hodgsons’ family
home of Cheverton Farm, the
Isle of Wight Mountain Bike
Centre is the island’s first
and only bike park. With
a geography that doesn’t
lend itself to epic descents,
founders, friends and sole
builders of the park Sam
Hodgson and Matt Townsend
have split their e orts across
the farm’s three valleys,
creating a number of downhill
trails in each. Their eventual
ambition is to create trail
centre-style loops of varying
length and di culty that are
unique in the way they give
riders a choice of descent
from the top of each hill.
What’s here so far is only a
fraction of what they envision,
but there’s already a good mix
of flow and natural tech, plus
lines of mostly-rollable jumps,
which, in the case of the Full
Gravity line, are close to the
40ft mark. Out in the digger
come rain or shine, Sam and
Matt plan to have another
20km of track finished for
spring 2022, and plans beyond
that extend to more trails for
both beginners and pros, as
well as a skills park, pump
track and more.
Being situated on a
working farm, the bike centre
is only open for part of the
year (April to the end of
October) but summer is the
best time to visit anyway. The
dirt here runs best in the dry
and you can finish o a day
on the bike with ice creams on
the beach. See issue 400’s
Trail Crew for the full lowdown.
www.isleofwightmountain
bikecentre.com
Mountain Biking UK
IT WAS A HOLIDAY TO
WHISTLER IN 2017
THAT FIRST INSPIRED
SAM AND MATT TO
OPEN THEIR OWN
VERSION BACK HOME
up to recently, taking a ride in farm machinery, which we’ve now When he's not flying
the farm’s beaten-up old pick-up basically stolen! He does wish he had upside-down, Sam grabs
across to the next valley, where the more time to help out, but he’s just a spade and does his part
centre’s newest trails can be found. too busy running the farm.”
Bumping and bouncing through deep
muddy ruts on our way to the top, Faithful companion
we cut across the path of several
tracks snaking their way down the By now we’ve reached the top of the
hill – wide interlinking berms, sharp hill. After shutting off the engine, we
chicanes through dense trees and, chuck the bikes out, ready to ride
hidden among the leaves, the tops of a new red trail that’s only just been
wooden North Shore-style features cut in. The fresh dirt surface is still
reminiscent of British Columbia. It soft, and it’s claggy from the heavy
was a holiday to the bike park nirvana overnight rain, but that doesn’t stop
of Whistler back in 2017 that first Sam launching it sideways off every
inspired Sam and Matt to think of hip jump, as we give chase with his
opening their own version back home. dog Luna. We always find riding
with someone else’s dog a little
“How did you get your parents on disconcerting, because you’re always
board to let you do all this?” we shout second-guessing where it’s going
to Sam over the roar of the diesel to go, but for Sam and Luna it’s like
engine. “Well, it took my mum a while some sort of chaotic choreography
to come round,” he concedes with – one where he’s completely at ease
a laugh, “but dad’s wanted to see it with her darting this way and that in
work from day one. He’s always been front of his wheels. These two have
such a legend, lending us diggers and a real companionship, and are
Mountain Biking UK
scarcely separated from each other and the progression is perpetual.” The mountain bike’.” We can tell that both
when he’s not travelling, and with hardest thing, he reckons, is creating Sam and Matt are reluctant to “toot
her half kelpie, half collie breeding, something that everyone can find flow their own trumpets”, as Sam puts
choosing lines on a downhill track on. “Anyone can build a huge take-off it, but it’s undeniable that without
at full tilt comes as easy to her as and landing, and try to jump between the hard work they’ve put in, there
rounding up sheep. them,” Sam says. “But controlling wouldn’t be a hub for the scene or
speed through berms on a blue trail maybe even a scene at all here on the
About 30 seconds later we blast is much tricker. Uphills are definitely island. “The more you give back to
out onto the fireroad, grinning from the hardest, because if you come the biking community, the more you
ear to ear. It’s obvious that, from across a steep bit and haven't got get from it,” Sam believes. “Seeing
years of trial and error, tweaking and enough momentum, nobody will be the groups of kids we get here,
refinement, and 12-hour dig shifts in able to get up the trail!” progressing their skills and all loving
the rain, Sam and Matt have honed riding, makes it all worth it.”
the formula for what makes a fun Doing it for the kids
trail. “We learn something new with When we return to the farmyard
every build,” Sam says, grinning at For someone with a biking ability a short while later, Sam’s brother and
our obvious enjoyment. “But that’s that puts him in the top one per dad are just coming in from a bike
what makes it so fun. Just like biking, cent in the world, Sam couldn’t be ride, too. Not long afterwards, his
you can’t ‘complete’ trail building, less elitist when it comes to getting mum arrives from the fields, where
riders of all backgrounds and abilities she’s just learnt that several of the
Is it the Isle of Wight or involved. Perhaps this is because he cows are going to have to be put
Vancouver’s North Shore? remembers (not that long ago) being down. It’s a stark reminder that living
Sometimes it’s hard to tell the kid with posters on the walls, off the land is never an easy ride, but
looking up to – and then going out to one thing farming has done is instil
ride with – guys like Blake Samson, the kind of work ethic that’s needed to
the first freerider from the Isle of build a bike park from the ground up.
Wight to make it as a pro. It’s also What Sam and Matt have created here
likely down to the fact that he’s now feels more special, given that they’ve
seeing youngsters discovering their done it in the place they grew up and
own love for MTBing through having somewhere that means so much to
a bike park on the island. them. It’s their little slice of Whistler,
and their vision is what’s paving the
“Just the other day,” Sam tells us, way for other mountain bikers on the
“there was a kid who came up to me Isle of Wight. A place with not much of
and said, ‘Dude, thank you so much a mountain bike scene? We can’t see
for making this place, because without it staying that way for much longer.
it I probably wouldn’t be riding a
The Bike Centre is home to some
pretty hefty senders – Sam shows
how they're meant to be ridden
THANKS TO...
Props to the Isle of Wight
tourist board (www.visitisle
ofwight.co.uk) for helping us
make this trip happen. We
used Red Funnel Ferries to
get across from the mainland
(www.redfunnel.co.uk). They
operate to and from
Southampton nearly every
hour of the day, while other
providers run services from
Portsmouth and Lymington.
We stayed at Camp Wight,
a sustainably-focused
campsite 15 minutes from the
bike centre. You can overnight
in one of their super-cool
geodesic domes, like us, or the
secluded woodland site has
plenty of space for you to
bring your campervan or tent
(www.campwight.co.uk).
Mountain Biking UK
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is a hook-and-loop cuff, while the sole is down into the shoes. With the Trailcross The slightly bulkier and better-padded
made from Five Ten’s lauded Stealth GTXs, the trousers also have to be long upper means these shoes are more
Phantom rubber. Our pair of UK 8s enough to cover the part of the ankle protective than the Trailcross XTs.
(EUR 42) weighed 850g. gaiter above the membrane. If the shoes
get wet inside, water is unable to drain Overall, the Trailcross GTXs are
The Trailcross GTXs resisted water out and they take a long time to dry. a milestone product, adding effective
penetration successfully during our waterproofing to the famous Five Ten
20-minute submersion test, and on the In terms of fit, the Trailcross GTXs are flat-pedal grip, and ensuring that our
trail, our feet remained dry for the entire sportier and narrower than Five Ten’s feet remained dry and warm in even the
duration of every ride. They stayed warm Impact Pros, but slightly more grottiest of conditions. Alex
as long as they were dry, too, even in generously proportioned than the
some of the harshest conditions we’ve non-waterproof Trailcross XTs. We didn’t Excellent waterproo ing and grip, but
ventured out in. When the water depth need to size up to be comfortable, and need to be paired with well- itting
exceeded the height of the GORE-TEX appreciated the well-supported feel. waterproof trousers, and costly
membrane, damp did soak down Grip is impressive, blending the outright
through the internal layers of the shoe, stuck-to-your-pedals feeling of the
wetting the inside. However, this only Impact Pros with the slightly lower
traction levels of the Trailcross XTs. It
Mountain Biking UK
SPECIALIZED WOMEN’S MUC-OFF EBIKE SOX PREMIUM
TRAIL ALPHA JACKET ULTIMATE KIT PRINT SOCKS
£190 | www.specialized.com £89.99 | https://muc-off.com £11.99 | www.rushsportscycling.com
With its fluffy, fast-wicking Polartec This complete set of e-bike cleaning and If you’re after a decent pair of riding
Alpha insulation, this lightweight, lubrication essentials includes 11 Muc-Off socks, then these jazzy numbers from
packable jacket from Specialized’s Trail products, including their new anti- Sox are well worth a look. They come in
Series range outperforms its diminutive corrosive HCB-1 spray to keep moisture three sizes (small, medium and large)
size. The cut is great – true-to-size and out of the places you least want it. If you and offer a foot-hugging fit – although
fitted to the female form in a way that’s need to restock from scratch, it’s a good it’s not quite as good as that of our go-to
flattering without feeling restrictive. investment, and the brand’s formulations Fox Trails. Reinforced, padded toe and
Unlike puffy insulated jackets, the are great quality, in our experience. heel sections boost durability and
dual-layer construction isn’t bulky, so However, our advice is to use the box that comfort, while the mesh upper helps
you can layer up both underneath and everything comes in to store tools, rather stop your feet getting too sweaty. They
over the jacket, with a baselayer and than its original contents. We discovered stay up well while riding and we rarely
waterproof or windproof shell, for too late that bottles with trigger sprays found ourselves reaching down to pull
example. Elasticated cuffs keep any (even closed ones) can leak under the them up again. At £12, they’re not cheap,
draughts out, while the mid-height pressure of being tightly packed on their but we’ve had a couple of pairs on test
collar can be zipped up to keep you sides, and now we need a refill of the for a few months now and they’re
really cosy in colder weather. If you find drivetrain cleaner. We’d advise storing the holding up really well. Rob
it a bit too toasty, the two-way zip down bottles upright in a bucket instead. The
the front comes in handy. When the products themselves are hard to fault, but
temperatures drop, the Trail Alpha this kit loses a point because the case just
comes into its own. The durable, lofted isn’t practical. Russell
fibres keep you toasty, while the outer
fabric is supremely soft and stretchy. HIGHS
Softshell, fleece-backed panels run up
the underside of the arms to the pits, Tailored fit
reducing the insulative effect where you Warmth without
don’t need it. If it does get too hot,
though, the jacket can be packed down bulk
pretty small, fitting in a hip pack or Casual styling
rucksack. At a touch under £200, this
high-tech fabric doesn’t come cheap, LOWS
but for a really effective and gorgeously-
styled winter jacket that’s as practical Premium fabric
off the bike as it is on, we’d say it’s well comes with a
worth the money. Katherine corresponding
Supreme warmth in a slender layer price tag
for the chilliest days
HIGHS
Impressively
robust and easy
to maintain
Reliable hub
that’s quick to
take apart
Accurate feel
on the trail
Give a good,
rounded tyre profile
LOWS
Expensive
Hard to discern
any performance
di erences over
the cheaper EX
1700 wheelset
Some tyres are
tricky to fit
DT SWISS EXC 1501 SPLINE ONE WHEELSET
£1,429.98 | www.freewheel.co.uk
These new enduro wheels replace DT plenty of carcass stability. Hub
Swiss’s revered aluminium EX 1501s, with engagement is precise, but 10 degrees
a carbon fibre rim design making them of free play may be too much for some.
lighter, while preserving the previous While the bearings stayed smooth and
model’s strength and ride qualities. The silent, there was some dirt ingress into
tubeless-ready rims are built onto DT 240 the freehub ratchet system. The rims
hubs with straight-pull Competition remained straight, not needing
spokes and Squorx Pro Lock nipples. At retensioning or trueing, and the sidewalls
the rear, the Ratchet EXP freehub body have proven robust, fending off rock
has 36 points of engagement, thanks to strikes and dings. They’re really tough
two splined rings. There’s a choice of wheels. Whether they perform any better
six-bolt or Centerlock rotor mounts. than the cheaper EX 1700 Splines is
Our 29in test wheels weighed 1,752g. debatable, although the EXC 1501s are
slightly lighter. Alex
We found that some DH-casing
tubeless tyres were hard to fit without Reliable, precise-riding enduro
tyre levers, but the pre-installed tubeless wheels that are best suited to
tape had no leaks and held air throughout charging rather than cruising
our test period. The 30mm internal rim
width suits 2.3 to 2.6in tyres without
making them too round or flat, giving
TECHNOLOGY
Mountain Biking UK
100% AIRCRAFT 2 HIGHS FI’ZI:K TERRA
FULL-FACE HELMET AIDON X3 SADDLE
Comfortable fit
£349 | www.silverfish-uk.com £139.99 | www.extrauk.co.uk
Never feels
While the price tag might seem steep, claustrophobic The Aidon is designed for e-bike use, but
it’s worth considering how costly the we’ve used it plenty on normal bikes, too.
Aircraft 2’s closest competitors are – with when you’re There’s a slight rise towards the rear,
Fox’s Rampage Pro Carbon costing £460 breathing which helps keep you locked in on steeper
and Troy Lee Designs’ D4 £500. Like its really hard climbs and gives you a little more to push
more expensive counterparts, the Aircraft against on crux moves. It’s also
2 has a carbon fibre outer shell, which is Decent price reinforced, to help when grabbing a heavy
moulded to the dual-density EPS foam considering what’s bike by the saddle. The short nose is
liner. To better protect your head against contemporary-looking and comfortable,
angular impacts, it features 100%’s on o er as is the pressure-relief zone, which has
Smartshock Rotational System, which a rubber flap to keep spray out while still
connects the padding to the lid via 14 LOWS allowing the hollow to drain. Padding is
elastomers. The idea is that these will reasonably thick but is supportive rather
allow your head to move within the liner, One popper on the than mushy. With its relatively flat shape
while also absorbing some crash energy. neck roll came (save for the rear rise), decent padding
Included in the fancy helmet bag is a set and well-formed shell, we had no issues
of spare padding (liner, neck roll and open occasionally riding on this saddle all day. While the
cheek pads), in varying thicknesses to 145mm width appears broad, it didn’t get
help tailor the fit. Closure is handled via Not quite as comfy in the way of our thighs when the saddle
a double D-ring, while the peak gives you as some was dropped. A 160mm version is also
three distinct, secure positions to choose available, as are carbon fibre-railed
from. The Aircraft 2 feels comfy as soon NOCK HAND GUARDS models (£169.99), saving around 50g
as you slip it on. Our medium sample on this ‘Kium’ alloy one’s competitive
(sizes range from S to XL) is in line with £59.95 | www.windwave.co.uk 256g weight. Tom
other brands, in terms of fit. While the
padding isn’t quite as plush as the D4’s, These guards cover a fairly large area,
the 100% is still lovely to wear, with no offering decent protection for your fingers
pressure points. We have had to reattach and brake levers against trailside
the neck roll on several occasions after vegetation, if you can position them well.
fitting, though (one popper keeps They’re foam-backed, just in case you hit
unfastening). It’s airier than some a firmer object, such as a tree. There’s
full-faces, and doesn’t feel claustrophobic 12mm of fore-aft adjustment, so we didn’t
or restrictive when breathing heavily find our index fingers flicked the guards
through the vent on the chin bar. And, while reaching for the brakes. They’re
despite being a touch heavier than the easy to locate over longer levers, such as
960g D4 at 1,220g, you’d be hard-pressed SRAM’s, but we struggled to fit them over
to tell out on the trail. Rob Shimano stoppers, with their shorter
levers and reservoir support. We found
Really comfy full-face lid for enduro that running the guard over the top of
or downhill riders, with some great the reservoir worked, but compromised
features and it, at a decent price hand coverage. Fitting the guards
requires removing your grips, and
a 2.5mm Allen key. Larger-headed bolts
and a captive nut on the bar clamp would
be better, and a split clamp better still.
The finish could be better for the price,
too. Once on, they’re fit-and-forget,
though. Numerous decals, plus custom
options, are available. Tom
Mountain Biking UK
MINITEST WRECKED & RATED
WINTER JERSEYS
Keep the cold on the outside with these toasty tops
Women’s version Women’s version TROY LEE DESIGNS SKYLINE CHILL
available available
£80 | www.saddleback.co.uk
MADISON ZENITH THERMAL SCOTT TRAIL STORM
£49.99 | www.freewheel.co.uk £72.99 | www.scott-sports.com
SO GOOD… The price is appealing, as is the SO GOOD… Its soft, brushed fabric makes SO GOOD… This is one of the best jerseys
fit and feel of the super-soft, brushed-back, the Trail Storm feels similar to the Zenith. here for those trans-seasonal days when
wicking fabric used for the entire jersey. Scott have included mesh panels at the upper you’re never quite sure what to wear. It’s
Coverage is decent, with good length in the back and under and around the top of the made from a heavier knit fabric than the
arms so your wrists aren’t exposed. Thanks arms to help you shed heat. The combination standard Skyline, which adds welcome
to the slightly baggier fit than some here, of a closer fit through the body and the warm insulation, but isn’t as thick as the Madison or
especially in the sleeves, it’s warm but not too material makes it feel snug on chilly days. Scott, so you won’t melt on the climbs if the
clammy when you sweat. There’s a bit of drop to the rear hem to keep sun pops out. We’re big fans of the fit and cut,
NO GOOD… On really chilly, windy days, cold the cold off your lower back and the sleeves the generously-sized lens wipe and how good
air can enter through the neck, which isn’t as are amply long. The lens wipe is a nice touch. the material feels against the skin. The neck is
close-fitting as the best here. So, while the NO GOOD… Despite those mesh panels, it well-fitted too, and stops draughts getting in.
Zenith is suitably cosy on most chilly rides, doesn’t feel as breathable as others here, NO GOOD… The lighter-weight fabric means
get riding into a cold headwind and that snug so gets quite clammy when working hard, you’ll need to add more layers on cold days
feeling soon gets blown away. making it best suited to really chilly rides. than with some here. It’s quite pricey, too.
Women’s version ALTURA ESKER TRAIL Women’s version
available available
£50 | www.altura.co.uk
RAPHA TRAIL WINDBLOCK ENDURA SINGLETRACK FLEECE
£100 | www.rapha.cc £59.99 | www.endurasport.com
SO GOOD… Despite feeling the most like a SO GOOD… You’re sure to stay toasty with SO GOOD… Made from 80 per cent recycled
regular jersey, this one is surprisingly warm. the Esker’s windproof Polartec PowerGrid fabric, the Fleece is a great insulator and it
The windproof and tear-resistant front panel fabric plus thermal panels on the sleeves, also breathes really well, especially compared
and the hardwearing nylon fabric on the across the shoulders and some of the back to the Madison and Scott jerseys. Its cut is
sleeves mean that it thrives on cold, gusty (a breathable panel runs down the centre). well-tailored and sits just on the right side of
days, and they do a decent job of repelling A DWR coating protects you from light rain baggy without feeling restrictive. The
light rain showers, too. The back is made from and splashes, and this jersey breathes as well close-fitting neck is the best on test and it
Rapha’s merino wool blend, which is soft and as the Endura when you’re working hard. The boasts long sleeves and the longest dropped
warm. While the sleeves aren’t as soft as the snug fit and cut feel spot-on, with ample rear hem, too. Considering the price, we’re
body, they’re still comfy against the skin. The length. We found the sleeves quite tight at impressed by its feel, fit, construction and
cut and fit are excellent, too. the forearms, but not uncomfortably so. handy extras like the small zipped pocket.
NO GOOD… It isn’t as cosy as some here so NO GOOD… The thermal material on the NO GOOD… Compared to the Rapha, it
you’ll need a baselayer when it’s properly sleeves and shoulders takes a while to warm doesn’t block the wind quite as well, but then
cold. The price is high. up, and the neck isn’t as snug as the Endura’s. it’s nearly half the price so we’ll forgive it.
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Team bikes ridden hard for a year
Mountain Biking UK
WRECKED & RATED LONGTERM
RUSSELL’S SPECIALIZED TURBO LEVO SL
EXPERT CARBON £8,500
The Levo SL has carried Russ far and wide without complaint
HIGHS I’ve been riding e-bikes bike’s natural ride feel and agile
since their nascence. handling. But what has recently
The Levo SL’s My work – doing occurred to me is that, unusually,
electronics have photoshoots carrying it’s had no battery or motor-related
been extremely heavy kit – made me downtime. The Levo SL hasn’t had
a willing early adopter. As such, I’ve an easy time of it, either – the fact it
reliable followed their evolution closely and rides so well means that I’ve used it
– have been lucky enough to ride some as much for play as for work, doing
outstanding bikes, welcoming the long days on the sort of extreme routes
I love the natural advantages and accepting the trade- where I’d normally hesitate to take an
ride feel and agile offs of increased weight and unusual e-bike, because a motor fail will mean
handling. I’ve always accepted, too, a heavy ride home. I maintain my bikes
handling that at some point the motor or battery well, but I’d simply not expected it to
– will fail, or need some TLC from a be so reliable in terms of its electrics.
person more qualified than me – not Not one grumble, whine or complaint,
Its smaller battery so much a disadvantage as just part of Rather, a motor that continues to
gives the perfect the maintenance deal that comes with support me churning out the miles
power-to-weight electrically-assisted machines. over whatever terrain I present it with.
Out of the box, the smaller-than-
ratio most 320Wh battery of the Levo SL Unfortunately, I’ve not had so much
caused me some concern regarding success with the wireless SRAM AXS
LOWS its range and power, but the bike has mech I fitted. Lulled into a false sense
turned out to have a close to perfect of security about batteries in general,
Forgetting to power-to-weight ratio. You get out what I either missed or ignored the low-
replace the battery you put in, which translates to the best- battery warning that comes via the
in the wireless rear riding version of yourself on any given app. I don’t carry a spare for it, so found
day. As reported last month, the range myself a long way from home with
mech – but the has barely troubled me enough to use no way to change gear. In a ‘lightbulb’
dropper’s one the battery extender, either. moment I raided the battery in my AXS
I have over 2,000km under the dropper post, figuring I needed gears
saved me wheels and am now enough months in more, then the motor reliably kicked
that I’m no longer surprised by the in and we carried on as normal.
www.specialized.com
Mountain Biking UK
HIGHS ROB’S NUKEPROOF MEGA 290 RS CARBON £5,999.99
I’ve had some Our tech-ed-in-chief’s long-termer is ready for some TLC after a tough life so far
lush rides on dry
autumn trails With the final throes I also need to give the RockShox ZEB I’ve been impressed with how the
of summer lasting until fork a lower leg service, assuming WTB CZR i30 rims have held up and
– mid-October this year, I can get the small parts I need. It how they react to the trail.
Despite needing I got out on the Mega still feels pretty good, but it’s not
a bit of TLC, the as much as I could last as slick as it once was and can feel I’ve enjoyed my time on the
Mega is surviving month to make the most of the dry a little sticky at times. The final job Michelin tyres, too. The front Wild
impressively well conditions. It’s really hard to beat is a brake bleed. On a recent trip to AM2 has been predictable and
dusty tracks in the middle of autumn! some steep tracks in a location I’ll worked well in a variety of conditions.
– After a few decent rides, it was only not mention, I started to notice the However, the same isn’t entirely true
The WTB wheels are when I swapped bikes to try out SRAM Code RSCs pumping up a bit of the Force AM2 I’ve got on the rear.
holding steady, too a different test machine that I started as I dragged the brakes in an attempt It’s suffered a small tear, courtesy
to realise that my Mega is in need to control my speed. Again, it’s not of the rocks at BikePark Wales, and,
LOWS of some TLC. a major job and I’m hoping it’ll yield while it’s been great on the drier
Don’t get me wrong, it’s far from some decent results. trails, now that the weather has
Workshop time is falling apart, but it’s about time changed and surfaces are a mixture
hard to plan for I spent a bit of time taking care of For those with a keen eye/good of mud and wet leaves, the tread is
when all I want to it. The first and easiest thing on my memory, you’ll know that the only struggling to dig in under braking.
to-do list is giving the drivetrain a things I’ve swapped on the Mega With just one month left with the
do is ride proper degrease and re-lube. It’s a are the wheels and tyres. I’ll post Mega, pending the arrival of our
mucky job but isn’t exactly taxing a proper review of the wheels soon, 2022 bikes, I don’t think I’ll have the
UPGRADES and the results are always satisfying. now that I’ve been riding them for chance to change this one, though.
a decent amount of time, but in short, www.hotlines-uk.com
WTB CZR i30 TCS
wheelset, £1,250
www.hotlines
-uk.com
Michelin Wild AM2
29x2.4in tyre,
£59.99 www.
silverfish-uk.com
Michelin Force AM2
29x2.4in tyre,
£52.99 www.
silverfish-uk.com
Mountain Biking UK
ED’S YT JEFFSY CORE 3 29 £3,749 + P&P WRECKED & RATED LONGTERM
Stoked to be back riding after an injury, Ed is making the most of his time with the Jeffsy JCW’S WHYTE
E-160 S V1 £5,200
My YT has collected have dropped a few psi out of the Fox
a lot of dust recently. 36 Performance Elite fork and DPX2 It’s time to talk batteries. When Whyte
Not that good ‘summer Performance Elite shock – both to suit refer to the E-160 as having a ‘slide in
trails’ dust, but the the slower, softer conditions and my battery fitment’, what they actually
sort that accumulates marked drop in pace! I’m confident mean is a ‘carefully jiggle in, with the
when you’re laid up with an injury, that’ll pick up with a few more rides, bike at exactly the right angle in a
as well as renovating your house. A and surprised that I didn’t feel more workstand and while desperately trying to keep the
snapped finger tendon (from my other like a fish out of water. internal cables out of the way and get the bolts to
obsession, rock climbing) has kept line up’ fitment. It’s enough of a faff that I’m glad I’m
me off the bike for a good while – and Part of that is down to the Jeffsy able to charge it in-situ. Other than that, I’ve been
I seem to have timed my comeback being such an easy bike to jump on impressed. Tilting the motor has enabled Whyte to
perfectly with the onset of winter! and ride. Being content to take it a bit position the battery really low in the frame for better
I’ve not missed the mammoth kit- easier has made me appreciate that handling, and its 625Wh capacity is plenty for all but
cleaning sessions, but a bit of time off YT have put together a really solid the longest rides. In fact, I’ve got so used to going
really has renewed my appreciation for set-up for a wide range of UK riding. It’s several short rides without recharging that I got home
how fun it is to be slipping around in when I want to push things harder that from my last jaunt with just one mile of range left – a
the woods again, as well as breathing I start to grumble about the slightly close thing, considering the steep hill up to my house!
new life into the laps of the Forest of conservative sizing and a head angle https://whyte.bike
Dean I’ve ridden a thousand times. I’ve that’s on the steeper side, but for now,
not made the switch to mud spikes eking out every second from a track is
yet, as the Maxxis Assegai I’m running not what I’m about, and probably isn’t
up front is pretty solid in the slop, but I what everyone wants from a trail ride.
www.yt-industries.com
HIGHS
It’s a proper buzz to
be back on the bike
–
My SRAM HS2 brake
rotor upgrade has
made for shorter
lever throw and
a precise bite-point,
which is great right
now as I’m on the
brakes a lot!
LOWS
The washing
machine seems
permanently full
of muddy kit
TOM’S MARIN EL ROY £2,375
This year’s travel restrictions were
a bit ‘will they, won’t they’, so I’m pretty
chuffed that I managed to sneak
a trip over to see my buddy Sam at
BikeVillage in France for a couple of
weeks of alpine tech aboard the El Roy. A hardtail
might not be everyone’s choice of alpine ride, but
with a six-day traverse of the Alps, from Briançon to
Nice, then a week at Sam’s place near Les Arcs on
the cards, I thought I’d treat the bike to some ‘proper’
mountains. A full-susser would definitely have been
smoother, but yet again the El Roy proved its worth.
Super-stout tyres and a wheelbase that stretches
into next week calmed the ride down a ton. OK, by
day six of the traverse, on super-rocky trails dropping
into Nice, my wrists were feeling it, but I promise that
was the only time I regretted my decision!
www.marinbikes.com
Mountain Biking UK
WRECKED & RATED LONGTERM
HIGHS JIMMER’S NS SYNONYM TR2
£4,199.99
The paint job has
stood up well This month, the MBUK team met
– up at Margam Park in South Wales to
Short girl needs shoot next issue’s Trail Crew. I spent
shorter bars: an inordinate amount of time faffing
with my fork pressure, because I’d
simple equation… stupidly decided to adjust it pre-ride. Mistake. It took
three attempts to find the sweet spot and get the
LOWS suspension feeling balanced again. One good change,
though, was my swap back to gnarlier rubber – my
…Shame it took me go-to Schwalbe Magic Mary up front and a Nobby
so long to figure! Nic out back. With oodles of grip, they made some of
Margam’s looser corners a real blast. On the hills, it
– was a case of ‘downcountry domination’ on the NS,
The gears aren’t as with killer views as a reward. It’s just a shame we rode
the trails back-to-front and discovered the best at the
smooth as they end when we were knackered from all the climbing!
once were www.hotlines-uk.com
JULIA’S JULIANA JOPLIN C S £4,999
Our designer wishes she’d taken a hacksaw to the Juliana’s bar much sooner
I’m writing this feeling spec has been the SRAM G2 Rs that LUKE’S CUBE STEREO
foolish, as I’ve finally come as stock, and, oh boy, switching 170 RACE 29 £3,499
chopped the Juliana’s to the Curas has made a world of
760mm Race Face bar difference in terms of stopping power. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been
down to 740mm, and Which leads me to believe that, despite impressed with the Manitou Mezzer
feel like I’m riding a whole new steed. being a novice, I should trust my gut. Expert fork I fitted to the Cube. It has
It only took me 10 months! On that note, I’ll probably upgrade my plenty of progression, so I decreased
On my first ride since the ‘upgrade’, next longtermer with an oval chainring the end-stroke ramp-up using its
the bike felt incredibly playful. OK, it from the start. A year on the Juliana neat IVA (Incremental Volume Adjuster) function –
helped that the conditions were right – has taught me it seems to be my effectively a volume spacer on a shelving system,
a dry, sunny day, with good friends for preference when it comes to pedalling. with which ‘shelf’ you place it on determining the
encouragement. But losing those few progressivity of the air spring. Because it’s all self-
millimetres has made the Joplin easier It’s a pity it’s taken me so long to contained, you can’t lose, or struggle to find, a token.
to manoeuvre and given me more tune the Joplin to my liking, but it’s I’ve serviced the Fox 38 fork that came on the Cube
confidence. The slight tweak in position been an incredible partner. I started and will do some back-to-back testing. The Manitou
means I can be more active with my out wondering why I wasn’t on a comes with a bolt-on mudguard, but now the trails
upper body, and so, feel in control. Santa Cruz, but over the months my are sodden I’m still on the hunt for a bigger one that’s
It wouldn’t be fair to only praise the scepticism about girls-only brands compatible with its Reverse Arch lower legs.
narrower bar, though. My new Formula has shifted and now – encouraged by www.cube.eu
Cura brakes have helped, too. One a stupidly comfy saddle – I’d happily
of my only criticisms of the Juliana’s own a Juliana!
www.jungleproducts.co.uk
Mountain Biking UK
TRAIL-RIPPING
HARDTAILS
Four ready-to-shred machines built to tame
a range of terrain, from cruisy blue trails to
rooty singletrack, without breaking the bank
Mountain Biking UK
WRECKED & RATED BIKETEST
Mountain Biking UK
LUKE MARSHALL Y ou can’t deny the raw, wild fun offered with tubeless tyres, which is a bonus. Of course,
TECH WRITER by hardtail mountain bikes. Plus, they £1,500 is a hefty investment, so make sure the
generally give great bang-for-your- frame allows for upgrades. Look for Boost hub
Luke goes out of his way to buck. With a more straightforward spacing, which makes wheel upgrades easier,
take bikes beyond their frame design than similarly-priced and a tapered head tube. All these bikes feature
comfort zones to home in full-suspension bikes and no rear shock those, so they’re pretty future-proof.
on any weaknesses, while to add to the cost, you tend to get a higher-spec
also looking at how all components package. These machines are built tough to withstand
aspects of the frame and some abuse, so while they may not be as fast
parts spec work together, We’ve tested four trail-ready hardtails around over the roughest terrain as a more expensive
the £1,500 mark, each specced with a 130mm
so you can make the most or 140mm-travel fork, and boasting geometry WHILE THE HARDTAILS TESTED
informed buying decision. that should allow you to confidently tackle ARE ALL DO-IT-ALL TRAIL BIKES,
a broad range of trails, from flowing blues to BRANDS PRIORITISE DIFFERENT
Mountain Biking UK natural tech. For this sort of money, you can RIDE CHARACTERISTICS
expect a decent aluminium-alloy frame with
all the latest kit bolted on, including a 1x12 full-suspension rig, they shouldn’t be any less
drivetrain, a dropper seatpost, hydraulic disc fun to ride. While the hardtails tested here all
brakes and a decent-width handlebar. We’d serve a similar purpose – as a do-it-all trail bike
also expect an air-sprung fork, with adjustable – individual brands often prioritise different ride
rebound and compression damping so that you characteristics, giving each machine its own
can set it up for your weight and riding style. feel. So, it’s wise to figure out what sort of steed
you’re looking for and which best suits your
Tyres can make or break any bike, and that’s riding style; that’s where our reviews should help.
especially true on a hardtail. There will always
be a compromise between rolling speed, grip
and comfort, so you need to work out what best
suits you. At this price, some bikes come set up
WRECKED & RATED BIKETEST
TREK ROSCOE 7
£1,400
Trek have designed the Roscoe
for riders of all levels. With its well
thought-out spec package and
geometry, it proves hardtails can be
just as fun as full-sus bikes. A 140mm-
travel Rockshox Recon Silver fork and
65-degree head angle provide a steady
front end. You also get a set of 29x2.6in
Bontrager tyres to smooth out the trail,
plus Shimano Deore gears and brakes.
SARACEN ZENITH ELITE LSL
£1,399 + £30 shipping
The Zenith Elite has the most
progressive geometry here, with
a whopping 490mm reach figure on
the large size and the lowest bottom
bracket on test. It also has the most
aggro set-up, including VEE Flow
Snap 29x2.6in tyres and powerful
four-piston Shimano brakes. A 130mm
Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork and SRAM
Eagle gears round out the spec.
KTM ULTRA EVO DIM
£1,499.99
This more aggressive Evo version of
KTM’s Ultra trail hardtail comes with
mixed wheel sizes – 29in front, 650b
rear – and has a 65-degree head angle.
Elsewhere, the geometry is the most
conservative on test. The 2.35in front
tyre is the narrowest here, too. Parts
include a 130mm RockShox Recon
Silver fork, SRAM Eagle gears and
Shimano brakes.
MERIDA BIG.TRAIL 600
£1,675
It’s not just the trail-friendly
geometry and spec that Merida have
thought about with the Big.Trail – there
are plenty of extra frame features to
make it stand out from the crowd,
too, including tool, mudguard and
pannier mounts. Components-wise,
you get a 140mm Marzocchi Z2 fork,
a Shimano Deore drivetrain and
29x2.4in Maxxis Dissector tyres.
Mountain Biking UK
DETAILS
PLUG & PLAY
This is the only frame
here that has rubber
plugs for its internal
cable routing,
minimising cable rattle
and water ingress
ACCESSORISE
There are mounts for
mudguards and a
pannier rack, plus
bosses for two
water bottle cages
COMPACT COCKPIT
The KTM has the
narrowest handlebar
on test, at 760mm, but
this is adequate for
most trail riding
KTM ULTRA
EVO DIM
£1,499.99 How does this ‘mullet’ bike stack up against the 29ers? THE KIT
The KTM has a competitive spec,
JARGON H ardtails from European bottom bracket to the centre-top of but no standout parts. You get a
brands sometimes falter on the head tube, which affects how a 130mm-travel, air-sprung RockShox
MULLET these shores, where we tend to bike feels when you’re stood on the Recon Silver RL fork with slim 32mm
ride more aggressively than our pedals) are conservative – just 452mm stanchions and a fairly basic Motion
Nickname for bikes counterparts on the Continent. on our size-large bike, the shortest Control damper, which has external
with mixed wheel However, Austria’s KTM say they’ve on test. Taller riders may struggle to rebound and compression damping
sizes – normally designed the Ultra Evo DiM specifically get a good fit. In addition, seat tubes adjustment. The drivetrain is from
a smoother-rolling for trail riding, so we were interested are relatively long (460mm, large), SRAM’s lowest-tier SX Eagle 12-speed
29in front wheel and to see how it stands up to UK use. preventing smaller riders from sizing range and uses an 11-50t cassette,
a smaller, more agile up to a larger-than-normal frame to get not their wider-range 10-52t option.
650b (aka 27.5in) THE FRAME more reach. However, the 65-degree Shimano’s two-piston MT410 brakes
What sets the KTM apart from the head angle is what you’d have found on are on par with others here in terms
rear wheel. other bikes in this test is its ‘mullet’ a hardcore enduro bike a few years ago, of power, and you can tweak the lever
set-up – it rocks a 650b rear wheel and the 74-degree effective seat tube reach. Fairly wide (30mm, internal)
STANCHIONS and a 29er front wheel. This aims angle is on-trend for a modern hardtail. own-brand rims laced to Shimano
to give the bike an agile and playful hubs are wrapped in Performance-
The upper tubes of character without sacrificing too much In terms of features, the frame has grade Schwalbe Nobby Nic tyres, in
a suspension fork, momentum over bumpy terrain. now-standard Boost hub spacing, a 2.6in rear width and a narrower
which slide into the semi-internal cable routing, plus 2.35in up front. The stem is suitably
The angular-looking frame is built mounts for mudguards and a rack. Tyre short at 50mm, and the 150mm
lower legs and from 6061 aluminium alloy and is only clearance isn’t fantastic, but it’ll accept dropper seatpost is pleasingly long.
house the spring available in three sizes. Reach figures 2.6in rear rubber. Chainstay protection
and damper. Larger (the distance from the centre of the is minimal, making for a noisy ride. THE RIDE
stanchions generally Thanks to its smaller rear wheel, the
mean a sti er fork. Evo feels fun on the trail, with poppy,
Mountain Biking UK
playful handling. It darts into corners HIGHS when pushing hard on the descents, FOR A LITTLE MORE
with an urgency the other bikes here and they were the first to lose traction.
lack and turns with ease. While the Mullet wheel set-up That made it challenging to get the KTM Myroon Pro £1,899.99
440mm chainstays aren’t the shortest gives fun handling most from the Evo’s agile handling. Another £400 gets you this carbon fibre-
on test, you can still easily lift the front Also, the Performance casing felt framed, more XC-focused hardtail with
wheel. It climbs well, too, thanks to its – comparatively less damped than a 100mm fork and Shimano Deore gears.
fairly steep seat tube angle, which puts Up-to-date others here, adding a more pingy
you in an efficient pedalling position head and seat feel to the ride. The RockShox fork FOR A LITTLE LESS
over the BB. Although the reach is tube angles works well, with good sensitivity and
short, the chainstay length keeps you progression, but we noticed its shorter KTM Ultra Glorious 29 £1,299.99
in a balanced position, and we didn’t – travel and skinnier, marginally flexier This loses the Evo’s 650b rear wheel and
have to shuffle our weight around to Plenty of frame stanchions in rough sections. dropper post, along with 30mm of fork
find traction or keep the bike tracking details that add travel, but gets Shimano Deore gears.
up steep climbs. For our 173cm (5ft 8in) tester, the
versatility large frame was OK, but for riders Mountain Biking UK
We like the rubber lugs at the cable- looking for a longer, more stable bike,
entry ports, which stop the internally- LOWS the KTM isn’t the best here. However,
routed control lines from rattling. The we had a lot of fun riding it, and we’re
cheaper SX Eagle drivetrain doesn’t Limited sizing sure you will, too – if it fits you. It does
feel as refined and crisp as the other – need some spec changes to realise its
12-speed set-ups here, though, and potential, most notably new tyres.
the chain jumps around more when Reach is on the
pedalling over rougher sections of trail short side and the
than with the Shimano gears of the seat tube quite tall,
Trek and Merida. While the tyres roll making it harder
fast, helping the KTM to feel sprightly
when climbing, we trusted the firmer to size up
Schwalbe rubber compound the least –
SRAM’s SX Eagle
gears are
underwhelming
A fun-handling bike but a few spec
choices and limited sizing stop it
reaching its thrill-seeking potential
DETAILS
SHORT CHANGED
The 125mm dropper
post isn’t long enough
to move the saddle
far enough out of the
way to really attack
the descents
BARE BOTTOM
With only semi-
internal routing and
without a full-length
outer on the gear
cable, it’s exposed to
the elements below
the chainstay
AGGRO RUBBER
Chunky tyres with
a soft compound are
great for finding grip
and boost confidence
SARACEN
ZENITH ELITE LSL
£1,399+£30shipping Does progressive geometry translate to impressive performance on the trails?
JARGON B ritish brand Saracen had a big add to the bike’s stability and keep your and rebound damping adjustment.
relaunch last year, moving to a weight balanced between the wheels. The Zenith’s SRAM NX Eagle gearing
FOUR POTS new direct-sales (online-only) The Zenith comes in four sizes. is a step up from the SX Eagle on the
business model. They also KTM, although it uses the same 11-50t
Four-pot disc brakes overhauled several of their bikes, With only one bottle cage mount cassette, and still isn’t as precise as
have four pistons in pushing geometry boundaries. and minimal frame protection – which Shimano’s 12-speed Deore. This is
each calliper, two for means it isn’t the quietest bike on the the only bike here equipped with four-
each pad. That gives THE FRAME trail – the Saracen is a little lacking in piston brakes, and its Shimano MT420
Built from custom-butted 6061 features. However, it does have stoppers certainly have the most bite.
the brakes more aluminium alloy (a construction semi-internal cable routing, running Likewise, the 2.6in Vee Flow Snap tyres
power over their technique where tube wall thickness is through the down tube, along with are the most aggressive on test. This
two-pot cousins. varied to achieve the optimum balance Boost rear hub spacing. means they have the best traction in
of strength and weight), the Zenith turns, but feel like they roll more slowly.
WHEELBASE looks aggressive and burly, and boasts THE KIT They’re fitted to 29mm (internal) Jalco
some of the most aggro geometry Saracen have specced kit aimed rims built onto Formula hubs.
The distance numbers around. The large size we at more aggressive riders in some
between the wheel tested has a whopping 490mm reach areas, while keeping other parts Unfortunately, the KS dropper post’s
axles. Longer means and 1,239mm wheelbase. Saracen more trail-orientated. The air-sprung 125mm of travel isn’t enough to get the
a more stable bike at pair these with a more moderate Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork has 34mm saddle fully out of the way on descents.
speed, but it can be 65.5-degree head angle and steep (for stanchions, which should make it Ideally, seatpost drop should increase
less agile in slower, a hardtail) 75-degree effective seat stiffer than the RockShox forks here, with frame size. At least you get a
technical terrain. tube angle. Long 445mm chainstays and 130mm of travel. It uses a Rail quick-release seat clamp, so you can
damper with external compression manually slide the post up and down
Mountain Biking UK
in the seat tube. The Saracen-branded HIGHS wheelbase, powerful brakes and grippy FOR A LOT MORE
finishing kit is all up to scratch. tyres give you the confidence to try
Grippy tyres and to find the bike’s limits. It requires an Saracen Ariel 30 £2,199.99
THE RIDE strong brakes give active riding style, but the aggro kit on The Zenith is Saracen’s top hardtail.
You can really push the Zenith, thanks the Saracen does make for a fun ride. Spending more takes you into full-sus
to its stable geometry and grippy tyres, confidence territory, with the 130mm-travel Ariel 30.
which give you a solid, confidence- – The Marzocchi fork does a good
inspiring platform to work from. Even job, with decent initial suppleness and FOR A LITTLE LESS
with the frame’s lengthy reach, the Stable geometry ample support deeper in the stroke,
seated riding position isn’t wildly long, means you can push but it can’t take the sting out of the Saracen Mantra Trail LSL £1,099.99
thanks to the steep seat tube angle. frame. While the 34mm stanchions add A touch burlier than the Zenith, the
In addition, the longer chainstays help the bike hard composure, its 130mm of travel is easy Mantra has a 140mm RockShox 35 Silver
keep your weight towards the front to use up on bigger hits, which slightly fork and SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain.
wheel, so you don’t have to actively LOWS limits what the bike can handle.
weight it when ascending as much Mountain Biking UK
as you’d expect. As a result, the Frame lacks the While we enjoyed riding the Zenith
climbing position is good. details of other and it has plenty of pros, the stiff
chassis here frame, too-short dropper post, lack
Hitting the descents, the Zenith of proper chainstay protection and
isn’t the most responsive bike here – minimal frame details prevent it taking
and takes a fair bit of rider input to Limited chainstay top marks. If it were up to us, we’d fit
get the most from it. We also found the protection results a longer-travel fork, too.
frame transmitted more trail feedback
through our hands – perhaps because in a noisy ride This is a very capable bike that can
the longer reach pulled us over the – be pushed hard, but its stiff frame
front end more, or because of the gives a less forgiving ride
stiffening effect of the extended head/ Dropper post has
top/down tube junction. Still, the stable too short a stroke
for taller riders
DETAILS
SILENCER
It’s good to see decent
chain-slap protection
on the driveside
chainstay, which
makes the bike quieter
WIDE BOY
There’s plenty of
clearance around the
2.6in rear tyre so the
frame shouldn’t get
clogged with mud
LOSE THE TUBES
The rims and tyres are
tubeless-ready, so
you’ll just need to fit
tubeless valves and
add some sealant
for a suppler and more
puncture-proof set-up
TREK
ROSCOE 7
£1,400 The all-new Roscoe promises thrills for all abilities 7’s spec, although it is about a kilo
heavier than the others. The RockShox
JARGON T rek revamped the Roscoe seat tube angle. Trek have modernised Recon Silver RL fork is the same as
earlier this year, with a significant the reach numbers, too, with our large the KTM’s, but with an extra 10mm of
TYRE VOLUME geometry update and a move frame coming in at a respectable travel (140mm). Shimano’s 1x12 Deore
to 29in wheels. On paper, this 470mm. There are six sizes, all with drivetrain is a capable performer with
Because wider tyres should have elevated it from an sensible seat tube lengths (450mm on a wide-range 10-51t cassette. The most
contain a higher entry-level XC bike to a solid trail ripper. the large), so you should be able to find noticeable downgrades are the brakes
volume of air, they So, does it deliver more fun when you one that suits your reach preferences. – Shimano MT200s. However, they still
o er greater hit the trails? The chainstays are a short 430mm feature lever-reach adjustment.
on all sizes.
cushioning, which is THE FRAME Most of the remaining kit is from
of particular benefit At the Roscoe’s heart is Trek’s Alpha There’s plenty of frame clearance Bontrager, Trek’s in-house brand,
Gold aluminium alloy. This mid-spec for wide 2.6in tyres, and space for two including the Line Comp 30 wheels,
on a hardtail. frame features butted tubes for a water bottles in the front triangle. The with a 30mm internal rim width. Also
better strength-to-weight ratio, along Roscoe has the best frame protection from Bontrager are the 29x2.6in tyres,
PROGRESSIVE with smoothed welds. As on the on test – a chainstay cover and a down 780mm bar and 50mm stem. The
SUSPENSION Saracen and Merida, the seatstays and tube guard to see off rock strikes. You dropper post is from TranzX, and has a
top tube run in line with each other, get semi-internal cable routing through decent 150mm drop on the large bike.
Suspension that making it resemble a dirt jump bike the down tube, and Boost hub spacing.
‘ramps up’ markedly more than a traditional XC hardtail. THE RIDE
as it moves deeper THE KIT The first thing you notice on the Trek
Those geometry tweaks have given Even though it’s one of the cheapest is how big the tyres are, especially
into its stroke, as the Roscoe a 65-degree head angle bikes here, Trek haven’t made too compared to the Merida and KTM. This
opposed to linear and an up-to-date 74.7-degree effective many compromises with the Roscoe gives the bike a tractor-like character,
suspension, where which brings both pros and cons.
resistance increases Their larger volume offers excellent
comfort and mean you can get away
more evenly.
Mountain Biking UK
with running slightly lower pressures HIGHS angle mean it smooths out the trails FOR A LOT MORE
for more grip. However, when pushed impressively and gives confidence in all
hard on faster trails, the tyres tend to Lots of frame sizes but the highest-speed turns. That short Trek Roscoe 8 £2,000
squirm, and have a vaguer feel than the to choose from rear end does liven the ride up and help This has a beefier 35mm-stanchion
other rubber here. – the Roscoe become more agile through RockShox 35 fork, four-piston Shimano
Shimano Deore the corners, but the longer reach brakes and SRAM NX Eagle gears.
For the most part, the seated gears work well means it isn’t as playful as the KTM.
pedalling position on the Roscoe is – FOR A LITTLE LESS
good, and weight balance between the Best frame We did find the RockShox Recon
wheels is OK, too. However, on steeper protection on test fork needed higher air pressures than Trek Roscoe 6 £1,000
inclines, the short 430mm chainstays recommended. That was true on the The cheaper Roscoe 6 downgrades to an
and fairly long front end meant we had LOWS KTM too, but its performance is still SR SunTour fork, 1x10 Shimano Deore
to shuffle forwards on the saddle to admirable, with good progression while gears and Kenda tyres.
keep the bike tracking well more often Wide tyres can feel remaining sensitive enough off the top.
than on the others here. vague and roll at Its 32mm stanchions are outgunned Mountain Biking UK
by the 34mm chassis of the Marzocchi
We have zero complaints about high speeds fork on the Merida and Saracen, but
Shimano’s excellent Deore drivetrain, – this only becomes noticeable when
which performs like more expensive pushing harder down tech descents.
kit. We weren’t too impressed with the Weak brakes The frame protection and large-volume
TranzX dropper, though, which had a compared to tyres help make for a quieter ride, too.
little more friction than the other posts others here
here, and while the underpowered The Roscoe’s a well-rounded
brakes are adequate for mellow trails, – package that delivers an engaging
they became overwhelmed on steeper TranzX dropper post ride, but with a few compromises
sections. But overall, the Trek is a fun
bike to ride. was sticky
The 140mm fork, extra cushioning
of the tyres and slack 65-degree head
DETAILS
HIDDEN TOUCHES
Under the saddle is an
11-function multi-tool,
plus there’s a mount
below the top tube to
carry essential spares
FORKED UP
With its 34mm
stanchions and
140mm of travel, the
Marzocchi Z2 fork
inspires confidence
when tackling
bigger hits
RELIABLE RUBBER
The 2.4in Maxxis
Dissector tyres give
good grip and support
MERIDA
BIG.TRAIL 600
gives you the basics required to set it
up for your weight and riding style. You
£1,675 Does it live up to its name with big results on the trail? get 12-speed Shimano Deore gears,
paired with Race Face Ride cranks and
an upper chain guide. The Shimano
JARGON P reviously best known for their seems ample. It has a small chainstay MT410 brakes only have two pistons,
road and XC bikes, Merida’s trail protector to curb chain-slap. but you do get lever-reach adjustment.
SMALL-BUMP bikes have really impressed us in Merida’s Expert TR wheels have a
SENSITIVITY recent years. Their Big.Trail 600 Reach numbers are conservative 29mm internal width and are shod
– just 455mm on our large frame.
How supple a fork
is during the initial is a bike with a big bag of tricks. However, short seat tubes (430mm with 29x2.4in Maxxis Dissector tyres.
phase of its travel.
Better small-bump on the large) mean you can size up if Finishing kit is also own-brand, and the
sensitivity improves
comfort and front THE FRAME you want more stability at speed. The 780mm bar, 50mm stem and 150mm
tyre grip. The double-butted 6061 aluminium Big.Trail’s 75.5-degree effective seat dropper are all on par with
BOOST SPACING alloy chassis looks sleek with its low- tube angle is the steepest and most the competition here.
Now the standard slung top tube and smooth welds. modern on test, and the 65.5-degree
size, Boost rear
hubs are 148mm A host of neat features make the head angle makes for confident THE RIDE
wide and use a
12mm-diameter Big.Trail the most versatile bike on test. handling on a wide variety of trails. The Big.Trail is the most comfortable
bolt-through axle.
These include two bottle cage mounts bike here to sit on. With the second-
plus an equipment mount under the THE KIT shortest reach on test and the tallest
top tube, so you can load it up for Despite the Big.Trail 600 being the stack height (we removed the stem
all-day epics. There are also discreet most expensive bike on test, Merida spacers to lower the bar height), it
rack and mudguard mounts, in case have specced similar components to puts you in an upright, relaxed position
you fancy doubling it up as commuter the other brands here. It’s a capable when pedalling seated. That doesn’t
or adventure bike. Boost rear hub package, but this does make the make it a poor climber, though – its
spacing makes any future wheel price seem high. The Marzocchi Z2 steep 75.5-degree seat angle puts you
upgrade easier. The frame is limited fork is the same as on the Saracen, in a strong position over the bottom
to 2.5in tyres, although clearance except with 10mm more travel, and bracket for pedalling. It also helps
Mountain Biking UK
keep your weight forward, maintaining HIGHS Maxxis Dissector tyres give a good FOR A LOT MORE
pressure on the front wheel to keep it balance of grip and support, without
tracking up steep ascents. Whether Versatile frame being too harsh and reducing comfort. Merida Big.Trail 700 £2,150
seated or standing, the Big.Trail is – For an extra £475 you get a Fox 34
a proficient climber, so if all-day The 1x12 Deore drivetrain works Performance fork plus a Shimano SLX
adventures are your cup of tea, it’s not Short seat tubes predictably well, giving crisp and transmission and brakes.
going to stretch you out into a painful make it easy to precise shifts both up and down the
position. Some flat-pedal riders found size up to get the cassette, and has the edge in feel and FOR A LITTLE LESS
the chainstays were prone to heel handling feel performance over SRAM’s equivalent
rub, but that wasn’t an issue for our offerings. Its 10-51t cassette, here Merida Big.Trail 500 £1,375
clipped-in testers. you’re after paired with a 32t chainring, provides This cheaper model spec drops down to
– an ample gear range to grind up the 1x11 Deore gears and Tektro brakes, but
While the Merida feels casual in its steepest climbs and not spin out on you get the same frame and fork.
seated position, it’s anything but tame The only bike here the fastest descents. Our only niggle
when things get more challenging. with a chain guide with the spec (other than value) is the Mountain Biking UK
Thanks to its low BB and standover MT410 brakes, which are OK in the
height, short seat tube and long LOWS dry, but lack punch in the wet. Taking
dropper post, the frame and saddle everything into account, the Big.Trail
don’t get in your way when you’re Tall stack height 600 was our favourite bike here to ride,
hitting the descents. This gives you means you may with a composed ride and handling
plenty of space to manoeuvre the need to play with that never felt too demanding.
bike when tackling tight turns and
technical sections of trail. Although it bar height
doesn’t have the agility of the KTM, it’s –
no slouch. The 140mm-travel Z2 fork
has enough small-bump sensitivity Not much in the way
and progression, helping to instil of frame protection
confidence in the front end, while the
As versatile as it is great fun to
ride, the Big.Trail is a well-designed
and very competent bike
SPEC DECK
KTM ULTRA EVO DIM SARACEN ZENITH ELITE LSL TREK ROSCOE 7 MERIDA BIG.TRAIL 600
PRICE £1,499.99 PRICE £1,399 + £30 P&P £1,400 £1,675
DISTRIBUTOR WWW.FLIDISTRIBUTION.CO.UK WWW.SARACEN.CO.UK WWW.TREKBIKES.COM WWW.MERIDA-BIKES.COM
WEIGHT 13.89KG (30.6LB) WITHOUT PEDALS
FRAME 13.74KG (30.3LB) WITHOUT PEDALS 13.71KG (30.2LB) WITHOUT PEDALS 14.73KG (32.5LB) WITHOUT PEDALS DOUBLE-BUTTED 6061 ALUMINIUM ALLOY
SIZES (*TESTED) 6061 ALUMINIUM ALLOY S, M, L*, XL, XXL
FORK M, L*, XL CUSTOM-BUTTED 6061 ALUMINIUM ALLOY ALPHA GOLD ALUMINIUM ALLOY MARZOCCHI BOMBER Z2, 140MM TRAVEL
HEADSET ROCKSHOX SILVER RL, 130MM TRAVEL S, M, L*, XL XS, S, M, ML, L*, XL MERIDA M2331
WHEELS: HUBS KTM TEAM TREKKING SHIMANO MT400 (F)/SHIMANO MT410 (R)
RIMS SHIMANO MT400 MARZOCCHI BOMBER Z2, 130MM TRAVEL ROCKSHOX RECON SILVER RL, 140MM TRAVEL MERIDA EXPERT TR, 29MM
SPOKES KTM ENDURO PLUS, 30MM STAINLESS STEEL
WHEEL WEIGHT RICHMAN 2.0 INOX FSA NO.57 ZS FSA IS-2 2.25KG (F), 3.18KG (R) INC. TYRES
2.27KG (F), 3.22KG (R) INC. TYRES
TYRES SCHWALBE NOBBY NIC PERFORMANCE FORMULA DC-711 (F)/FORMULA DCL-348S (R) SHIMANO MT400 (F)/SHIMANO MT510 (R) MAXXIS DISSECTOR DUAL EXO TR 29x2.4IN
CRANKSET/BB 29x2.35IN (F), 27.5x2.6IN (R)
MECH(S) SRAM SX EAGLE, 32T/SRAM DUB BSA JALCO SHL320S, 29MM BONTRAGER LINE COMP 30, 30MM RACE FACE RIDE, 32T/RACE FACE BSA
SHIFTER(S) SRAM SX EAGLE (1X12) DOUBLE-BUTTED STAINLESS STEEL STAINLESS STEEL SHIMANO DEORE M6100 (1X12)
SRAM SX EAGLE SHIMANO DEORE M6100
CASSETTE/CHAIN SRAM SX EAGLE PG-1210, 11-50T/ 2.61KG (F), 3.12KG (R) INC. TYRES 2.36KG (F), 3.20KG (R) INC. TYRES
SRAM NX Eagle SHIMANO DEORE M6100, 10-51T/KMC X12
BRAKES SHIMANO MT410, 180MM ROTORS VEE FLOW SNAP, 29x2.6IN BONTRAGER XR4 TEAM ISSUE 29x2.6IN
KTM COMP TRAIL, 760MM/ SHIMANO M410, 180MM ROTORS
BAR/STEM/GRIPS KTM TEAM, 50MM/KTM COMP SRAM STYLO 6K EAGLE, 32T/SRAM DUB BSA SHIMANO MT511, 30T/SHIMANO SM-BB52 MERIDA EXPERT TR, 780MM/MERIDA EXPERT
SEATPOST/SADDLE KTM COMP DP 30/KTM COMP MTB TR, 50MM/MERIDA COMP EC
SRAM NX EAGLE (1X12) SHIMANO DEORE M6100 (1X12) MERIDA COMP TR/MERIDA COMP SL
SRAM NX EAGLE SHIMANO DEORE M6100
SRAM NX EAGLE PG-1230, 11-50T/ SHIMANO DEORE M6100, 10-51T/
SRAM SX Eagle SHIMANO DEORE M6100
SHIMANO MT420, 180MM ROTORS SHIMANO MT200, 180MM ROTORS
SARACEN, 780MM/SARACEN, 40MM/ BONTRAGER RHYTHM COMP, 780MM/
SARACEN LOCK-ON BONTRAGER, 50MM/BONTRAGER
KS RAGE 1/SARACEN CUSTOM TRANZX JD-YSP18/BONTRAGER ARVADA
ETT: 622mm ETT: 633mm ETT: 646mm ETT: 622mm
REACH: 452mm REACH: 490mm REACH: 470mm REACH: 455mm
HEAD: 65° HEAD: 65.5° HEAD: 65° HEAD: 65.5°
SEAT: 74° SEAT: 75° SEAT: 74.7° SEAT: 75.5°
430mm
450mm
460mm
460mm
440mm 316mm 445mm 308mm 430mm 314mm 435mm 305mm
1,185mm 1,239mm 1,215mm 1,196mm
DIMENSIONS
A fun-handling bike but a few spec This is a very capable bike that can The Roscoe’s a well-rounded As versatile as it is great fun to
choices and limited sizing stop it be pushed hard, but its stiff frame package that delivers an engaging ride, this is a well-designed and
reaching its thrill-seeking potential gives a less forgiving ride ride, but with a few compromises very competent bike
Mountain Biking UK
WRECKED & RATED BIKETEST
BIG.TRAIL 600
W hat impressed us was just how enjoyable which gives it great stability, and the aggressive tyres NEXT MONTH
and capable these four bikes are. They all and powerful brakes let you push hard. However, the
have geometry that you’d have found on frame is stiff and takes some manhandling, and has E-MTBS
hardcore enduro bikes just a few years ago, fewer details to make it stand out.
and we had to take these machines off the Latest models from
beaten track to really test their limits. Blue and red trail The Trek Roscoe 7 is a great package and an Specialized, Yeti, Vitus
centre loops are well within their comfort zones. engaging ride for the money. Sure, the brakes are less and more tested in our
sharp, but the Deore drivetrain is solid and the wide
While the angles are good on the KTM Ultra Evo size range means you’ll be able to find one that fits 2022 e-bike guide
DiM, its tall seat tube, limited sizes and moderate you well. The tyres might be a bit Marmite, but the On sale 22 December
reach mean it won’t fit all riders. The frame has some Trek impressed us overall. Lastly, there’s the Merida
great details, which make it versatile, and its handling Big.Trail 600. Yes, it’s the most expensive here, but it Mountain Biking UK
is high on the ‘fun-o-meter’, but its lower-spec gears has (marginally) the best spec and, while it’s not the
and less surefooted tyres mean it doesn’t quite match longest, its short seat tube makes it easy to size up for
the others here as an all-round package. Where the more reach and its angles deliver a great ride. It’s the
KTM is short, the Saracen Zenith Elite LSL is long, bike we picked when going out for extra laps.
WRECKED & RATED GROUPTEST
WATERPROOF DETAILS
JACKETS
HOOD
Twelve of the latest designs tested to find the
best outer layers for use in the worst weather Whether your
preference is for an
A waterproof jacket is likely to be your most that there are now some excellent designs that under- or over-helmet
expensive piece of bike clothing, but if you want combine light weight, performance and durability. fit, check that the
to keep riding through a British winter, it’s an Does that mean jackets made from materials with jacket’s cut will work
essential. There’s a good chance you’ve been told a lower breathability rating will always be hot? The with your lid. Also,
that the more you spend, the better the jacket, but short answer is no – construction details such a hood that folds or
does that mean you always have to compromise as gills or pit zips and vents that can be opened stows away won’t flap
if you don’t have a big budget? Before parting up will aid cooling, as will double (two-way) front around when not in use.
with any cash, think about the sort of riding you zips. These features mean you can adapt a jacket
do. If you’re a cross-country fiend who spends all to suit your ride and the conditions on any given TWO-WAY ZIP
day in the saddle in the most extreme conditions, day. Layering also helps. A good baselayer will pull
then you ideally want a high waterproof rating moisture away from your body and hold it until it Double zips allow you to
(20,000mm) combined with maximum can escape through your jacket, helping to keep open the jacket from the
breathability (30,000g/m2). If your style is more you dry and therefore warmer.
bike park or DH runs, then breathability will be bottom as well as the
less important. In fact, a heavier jacket may suit In order to create a consistent test top to help you cool
you better than a lightweight style because it’ll environment, we wore the same baselayer with down faster – useful
keep you warm in the downtime. Fit is individual all the jackets. Conditions were mild (10-16°C) when you’re working
because we all have different body shapes, so you but very wet – tough conditions for waterproofs
really do need to try before you buy. because it really tests breathability. As well as up a sweat.
riding in each jacket in rotation in our classic
There can be a tendency to think of packable test method, we had two solid days of storms VENTS
emergency shells as budget items and therefore that allowed back-to-back testing of each one
lower-specification, but in our experience, if you over the same terrain in the same torrential rain. These are zipped
need a jacket because conditions have turned Over 100km later, with only a brief pause to swap openings at the armpits
bad, you need a decent one. The good news is outerwear, the confirmed results are in...
or sides that can be
JARGON opened to aid airflow.
Also look for gills
(covered slits) or
strategically placed
perforations. Useful
in heavier jackets and
warmer conditions.
DROP HEM
Crucial for protecting
your lower back from
mud and spray. Look for
a drawcord or elastic
detailing that keeps
it snug to the body and
stops it riding up, to
prevent water getting in
underneath. Also, check
it’s long enough in your
seated riding position,
not just standing up.
DROPPED CUFF
Cu s that are shaped
to extend over the back
of the hand integrate
with gloves more
smoothly than those
with Velcro adjusters,
and channel rain over,
rather than inside, your
gloves. They’re also
more comfortable to
wear, moving freely with
your body as you ride,
and shed water better,
because there are no
creases for moisture
to gather inside.
WATERPROOF RATING BREATHABILITY THREE-LAYER FABRIC 2.5-LAYER FABRIC D.W.R.
The height of a 1in- This is the rate at which A fabric consisting of Here, the waterproof Durable Water
diameter column of a fabric transfers an outer shell over a membrane has a thin Repellent is a thin
water that a fabric will waterproof membrane coating applied to the coating applied to the
withstand before moisture (sweat) from with an inner backing. inside, rather than outer shell that makes
it leaks, measured in the inside to the This lining helps protect a proper lining. This moisture bead and run
millimetres. As a guide, the membrane and type of jacket is often o . Its e ectiveness
10,000mm is a good outside, measured in prolong the life of the typified by a rubbery reduces with washing
benchmark, with grams per square jacket. It also gives and wear until the fabric
20,000mm better a smoother feel against feel, but the ‘half’ starts absorbing water,
metre, over 24 hours. the skin, and may have layer makes the reducing breathability
for prolonged or The higher the number, wicking properties, too. material lighter and and giving a cold feel.
extreme conditions. the more breathable more packable.
the material –
20,000g/m2 is decent.
Mountain Biking UK
MEET
THE TESTER
RUSSELL BURTON
PHOTOGRAPHER & TESTER
Russell is a life-long
mountain biker, never
happier than when the trail
dial is set to ‘epic’. He’s
been testing kit on
permanent rotation for
over 10 years as he takes
the photographs that
inspire the rest of us to get
out and ride. Out in all
weathers, his clothing
can’t let him down, so he’s
quick to find out what
works and what doesn’t.
Mountain Biking UK
Weight 121g ROYAL RACING QUANTUM
Waterproof rating N/A
Breathability rating N/A £109.99 | https://royalracing.com
Small enough to tuck into a pocket, the Quantum
is sensibly long at the back, with a well-fitting hood
that slips under a helmet with ease. Both hem
and cuffs have a simple elastic binding that keeps
them snug without adding bulk. We wore this as
a windproof on damp-air days and as a cover-up
in heavier showers. It’s lightweight and keeps
draughts at bay, but needs underpinning with
a chunky midlayer (such as its partner Quantum
tech hoody) in colder weather because it doesn’t
have any insulating properties. In the rain, once the
elastic at the hem and cuffs gets wet, it spreads
moisture up the inside. The fabric also wets out
quickly, making it feel cold, and our jacket actually
wetted through in some places. Even as an
emergency shell, this doesn’t deliver.
Weight 352g ALTURA RIDGE
Waterproofing 20,000mm
Breathability 20,000g/m2 £140 | www.altura.co.uk
A fairly lightweight jacket, the Ridge is made
from Pertex Shield 2.5-layer fabric – a new
favourite of ours, with a quality feel and great
waterproofing. The DWR finish beads water well,
too. We were comfy when working hard, thanks to
gills at the sides and long zipped front vents with
internal mesh pockets. The fit is relaxed without
being baggy, and the cuffs cover the back of the
hands well. A high neck and drawcords at the hem
and collar ensure you can cinch everything in to
keep the elements out. We found the fit perfect off
the bike, but when on it and reaching for the bar,
the sleeves rose a good three inches and tightened
at the shoulder, pulling the back up. If the cut
suits you, the Ridge offers excellent performance
at a sensible price.
Weight 445g ENDURA SINGLETRACK II
Waterproofing 10,000mm
Breathability 20,000g/m2 £149.99 | www.endurasport.com
The SingleTrack II feels substantial and durable,
with protective proportions that extend from
a generous hood to a long-drop hem, both
adjustable via integral drawcords. Its three-layer
construction (from 80 per cent recycled polyester)
with a PFC-free DWR finish keeps you dry and,
despite being a heavier style, it’s comfortably
breathable, even on warmer days. The fit is relaxed,
with plenty of room for extra layers, and the jacket
moves with you on the bike. Sometimes, however,
that does translate into it moving too much –
the sleeves ride up easily and it has a tendency
to ‘puff out’ through the chest, due to its bulky
water-repellent zip with storm flap. Useful features
include pit zips for ventilation, a zipped chest
pocket and two handwarmer pockets.
Mountain Biking UK
VELOCIO TRAIL ANORAK WRECKED & RATED GROUPTEST
£374 | https://eu.velocio.cc Weight 290g
Waterproofing 10,000mm
Half-zip styles tend to be love-or-hate. They can Breathability 30,000g/m2
get hot, but the Velocio features a full-length side
zip that lets you easily regulate your temperature Weight 426g
and makes it easier to get on and off. It also has a Waterproofing 20,000mm
double-entry front pocket that can act as a vent, Breathability 20,000g/m2
a zipped back pocket and a capacious adjustable
hood, which you can have up over a helmet without Weight 424g
the jacket riding up, thanks to the long back hem. Waterproofing 10,000mm
The cut is easy but well-fitted, and however much Breathability 10,000g/m2
you move around, the sleeves stay in place. This
jacket has been designed for high-energy use, and Mountain Biking UK
the eVent DVStorm fabric (with taped seams) has
excellent breathability. Waterproofing is let down
by the elastic insert at the cuff, which soaks up
rain even as the rest of the jacket is shedding it.
Otherwise, this is a great option, if you can afford it.
ALPKIT BALANCE
£199.99 | www.alpkit.com
Alpkit have designed the Balance for multiple
activities, but it has well-specified features that
don’t make it a compromise on the bike. The hood
fits well under a lid and folds away neatly, the
drop hem is sufficiently long, and there’s plenty of
venting via effective side gills plus a snap fastener
at the top of the zip, which lets you open it up
without the jacket flapping in the wind. Combined
with a good cut, the touch of stretch in the material
gives freedom of movement when riding. Durable
on the outside, the three-layer fabric is soft enough
to wear against bare skin, making it ideal for warm-
but-wet days. Despite a DWR coating, heavy rain
does overcome the shell’s beading properties and
it wets out, which makes it feel cold if you’ve gone
with short sleeves or light layers underneath.
TROY LEE DESIGNS DESCENT
£175 | www.saddleback.co.uk
Rugged and feature-packed, the Descent is
made from a three-layer fabric with a degree of
stretch, and offers a good balance of protection
and breathability. Water beads extremely well
and it didn’t wet out. Although it gets warm, we
didn’t overheat. Taped seams and waterproof zips
help protect you in heavy rain. The capacious and
adjustable over-helmet peaked hood fits well, but
taller riders may find there isn’t enough length
through the hood or the body to be truly comfy on
the bike. If you’ve got long arms, the sleeves can
ride up when outstretched on the bar, too. Shorter
testers didn’t experience these issues. Handy
details include good-sized handwarmer pockets
and long zip-pulls with rubberised ends, making
them easy to grab with cold or gloved hands.
Weight 314g SPECIALIZED A-E TRAIL RAIN
Waterproofing N/A
Breathability N/A £150 | www.specialized.com
One for those who like pared-back lines, Spesh’s
Altered-Edition Trail Rain jacket has just one
(chest) pocket and no adjustment, apart from at
the cuffs – although it does have taped seams,
a handy two-way zip and easy-to-grab zip-pulls.
The hood sits well over a helmet, allows good
movement and doesn’t affect peripheral vision.
While the fit is relaxed, the hem sits close and
keeps spray off well considering it can’t be cinched
in, but in heavy rain or on waterlogged trails we
came away with muck a good way up our jersey.
The 2.5-layer Polartec fabric is stretchy, smooth
against the skin and breathable, aided by the easy
venting of the double zip. When the hood is up, the
high collar works well, but when down it lets air in,
so this jacket is best for more casual rides.
Weight 314g RAB ZENITH
Waterproofing 28,000mm
Breathability 25,000g/m2 £250 | www.rab.equipment
While certainly pricey, the Zenith is an excellent
all-rounder. Designed as a lightweight shell for all
mountain sports, it’s longer than a dedicated
riding jacket but works very well on the bike. It
isn’t too long at the front, has articulated sleeves
and allows great freedom of movement through
the shoulders, which have reinforced panels. The
2.5-layer GORE-TEX PACLITE PLUS fabric beads
moisture well, doesn’t wet out and dries fast, yet is
comfortable enough to wear against the skin.
It also has the best breathability on test – we never
had to open the pit zips nor the front pockets
(which do double duty as vents). We chose to wear
the hood under our helmet, where the range of
adjustment, including of the wired peak, made it
easy to get the right fit.
Weight 387g THRUDARK SKIRMISH
Waterproofing 20,000mm
Breathability 22,000g/m2 £345 | https://thrudark.com
This jacket from new UK brand ThruDark is
another cross-functional piece designed for
extreme weather. A fully-adjustable hem and hood
allow you to seal it tight, with a deep yoke vent on
the back and underarm perforations for airflow.
It’s hard to get a great fit both on and off the bike,
but this Dorset-based outfit have managed it. The
Skirmish’s long tail drops into position; its shaped
cuffs fall perfectly over the backs of the hands;
the sleeves articulate with every movement; the
hood’s slightly stiffened peak keeps the rain out
of your eyes; and the three-layer eVent fabric both
breathes well and is durable. In torrential rain
we still didn’t overheat. With nifty details, such
as an internal chest pocket, this jacket is worth
considering despite the very high price.
Mountain Biking UK
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Mountain Biking UK 12.2021
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