The Scott Spark 700 Plus Tuned is a blazingly good short-travel ripper that owns the rowdiest of trails. Choose from 27.5in, 27.5 Plus and 29in versions.
Danny Milner
Editor
Bold Cycles Linkin Trail Classic 29 (2017) review
The Swiss are obsessed with purity and order, and these values are exemplified by the Linkin Trail from Bold Cycles. Hidden shock This exquisite full carbon 29er stashes its shock…
Pole Evolink 140 29 EN (2016) review
While we’re constantly hearing about bikes getting longer, lower and slacker the reality is rarely radical. With two notable exceptions. These are Mojo’s Nicolai-built Geometron and the Pole that you…
Nine 2017 bikes you won’t have seen before
Three models from Giant, who look set to have a great 2017. Sneak peaks at a Cannondale and a GT. A bargain bouncer from Marin. Also some quirky bikes from…
Scott’s new Scale – building an 849g hardtail frame
Need to know 49g lighter than the old Scale frame Rider comfort was a priority, without compromising on stiffness 27.5in, 29in and 27.5 Plus versions available If you’ve already read…
New Scott Spark aims for Gold in Rio
Need to know New full-suspension racing platform from Scott Lighter, stiffer frames with new geometry and kinematics 27.5in, 27.5 Plus and 29in versions available Spark retains Twin-lock remote system Haven’t…
How to convert your 29er to a plus bike
Plus bikes promise more grip and a smoother ride… and another hefty credit card bill. But what if there was a cheaper way to go Plus? >>> Click here to…
Nicolai Ion GPI (2016) review
Need to know 155mm-travel enduro bike using Mojo Geometron geometry Slack head angle and huge wheelbase Pinion gearbox with 12 or 18 gears Gates carbon belt drive is smooth, quiet…
Schwalbe Procore review
While it stops short of promising world peace, Schwalbe’s dual-chamber Procore system advertises some lofty claims — increased grip, improved comfort and an end to pinch flats and burped tyres.…
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt BC Edition (2016) review
Need to know BC Edition gets an aggressive spec with single-ring drivetrain Ride 9 system lets you tune the geometry and suspension feel Full carbon frame with Smoothwall construction 120mm…
Santa Cruz launches new Hightower 29er/27 Plus bike
Need to know Santa Cruz Hightower supersedes the Tallboy LT 135mm travel Can run 27.5in Plus or 29in wheels Flip chip on shock link accommodates wheel size change Avaiable to buy…
The best UK winter Rides
There are many great winter routes all over the UK – here’s our pick of the best
Kona Honzo AL (2016) review
Lighter and more agile than the original, the aluminium Honzo has a whole new attitude - £1,199
Rocky Mountain Maiden World Cup (2016) review
Key points Full carbon downhill bike Can run 27.5in or 26in wheels Ride 9 adjustable geometry We spied a prototype of Rocky Mountain’s, then nameless, replacement for the Flatline downhill…
Kona Precept 150 (2016) review
From shrinking violet to loud and proud, the redecorated Precept offers big fun at small prices
George Brannigan shreds New Zealand
A glorious example of why a well-ridden downhill bike is such a joy to watch
Mountain biking is always brilliant in Lego land
The jumps are sweet, the dirt is perfect, it never rains and your bike is always clean...
Trek Stache 9 29+ (2016) review
We challenge anyone who loves mountain biking to ride this bike and not come away impressed - £2,700
Steve Peat shows us his winter training loop
There’s a book lying conspicuously on the sturdy oak table in Steve Peat’s farmhouse kitchen. It’s titled Getting Things Done: How to Achieve Stress-Free Productivity. An odd choice of reading…
How to save over 1kg by putting your clothing on a diet
Shorts, shoes and helmets can all be slimmed down with dramatic results, and the lighter stuff isn’t necessarily more expensive.