Alan Muldoon

Bike Test Editor

whyte 905 v2

Whyte has been at the forefront of hardtail development for as long as we can remember. This Whyte 905 V2 looks set to rack up test wins and awards.

trek fuel ex

The updated Trek Fuel EX now features storage in the downtube, 29er wheels, more travel and a gorgeous frame… oh and it’s rollicking fast too.

YT Industries Capra 29 CF Pro Race

Does it matter that the YT Industries Capra 29 CF Pro Race hasn't racked up Enduro titles like the YT Tues downhill bike? We don't think so.

orange clockwork

The Orange Clockwork is something of a stalwart in the Orange hardtail range, but the latest EVO version brings this timeless classic bang up-to-date.

Saracen Mantra

The new Saracen Mantra Elite LSL is longer, slacker and lower than its predecessor, but how does it stack up against the competition?

nukeproof scout 275

The Nukeproof Scout 275 Comp has seen a lot of development. Its low-slung profile remains, but the bike has been stretched to a more generous cockpit.

BMC Trailfox AMP SX

BMC Trailfox AMP SX gets the treatment to make it more gravity focused. A 170mm Fox 36 fork slackens the head angle and gives you 20mm more travel up front.

specialized fuse comp

Billed as an out and out trail bike, the Specialized Fuse Comp sees Specialized back at the sharp end of hardtails. What’s new? Everything really!

Merida One-Twenty 400

By using wheelsize specific frames for the size S and M bikes, Merida gives riders the option of 27.5in or 29in wheels on the two smallest sizes.

Jamis Dakar A2

This year, Jamis has upped the stakes. The price of the entry-level Jamis Dakar A2 has crept up by £100 and Jamis has made some key revisions to the spec.

giant stance

It’s been three years since we last tested the Giant Stance and a lot has changed in that time. For starters, the price has shot up by £400.

Niner RIP 9 RDO 27.5

Built around twin-link suspension the Niner RIP 9 RDO 27.5 pumps out 140mm travel. Its Ribcage construction and shorter seat tube accommodate long droppers.

nukeproof scout

The Nukeproof Scout 275 Sport's slack head angle and long wheelbase gives it stacks of stability when the going gets steep and rough.

ragley marley

Absent from last year’s test after taking top honours in 2016 and pushing close in 2017, the Ragley Marley is back with a bang for 2019.

sonder transmitter

With slackest head angle, longest reach and shortest stem, the Sonder Transmitter is built for bombing, inspiring confidence to fully attack descents.

Decathlon Rockrider AM 100 HT

French outdoor pursuits supermarket, Decathlon, has listened to what the British rider wants and delivered this, the Decathlon Rockrider AM 100 HT.