Zefal Deflector FM20

We hope we don’t have to use a mudguard again this year but if we did Zefal’s new Deflector FM20 would be top of our list. It’s moulded from a technopolymer resin, weighs 80g, works with any wheel size, comes with three sticker kits and two mounting systems – use the Velcro straps if you want to remove it regularly or swap to zip-ties for a more permanent fix. Those rubber shrouds, they’re to stop the zip ties scuffing the fork legs. Best of all the FM20 only costs £11.99. zefal.com

Five Ten Freerider Contact

A close up of the sole on the new Freerider Contact flat pedal shoe. Compared to the current Freeride VXi,  the area of smooth rubber has been extended further back to allow greater foot tuning when running flats. The Contact is also lighter and, from a brief test ride this afternoon, a lot lower profile with a bit more feel. Two colours are available, sizes 3-13, £100. fiveten.com

Mavic Crossmax SL Wheelset

Mavic’s Crossmax SL Pro has a new ISM 4D machined rim. ISM stands for inter spoke milling and means material is machined away from the area between the spokes on both the top and sides of the rim to save weight. The difference with the 4D process is the machined areas all blend into one, which saves another 50g and also improves the wheel’s aerodynamics.
Crossmax SL wheels are available in all wheel sizes and a Lefty Supermax (2.0) 27.5in version. Weight is 1390g for the 26in hoops without tyres. Cost is £870 for the pair. mavic.co.uk

New Grips

We’re putting together a grip test for the next issue and here is an early sneak peek. (Left to right) Rather than a second collar, Santa Cruz’s new Palmdale grip has an internal taper-lock core to stop twisting. The softer compound ODI Ruffian in grey offers the worn-in feel straight out of the box. Lizard Skins new slimmer profile Moab grip, named because a percentage of the profits go back into the upkeep of the trails in Moab.

Lazer Magma

We saw the new Lazer Magma (£69.99) at iceBike last month. It’s a new lightweight mountain bike helmet with Lazer’s innovative ARS (advanced roll system) retention device moulded into the top of the shell, which is neater and saves weight. At 251g, the Magma is super lightweight but the peak is definitely an acquired taste, although Lazer did say it was working on a new wider, flatter design but no details on whether it will be adjustable. madison.co.uk

X-Fusion HiLo SLS

Like the Giant’s Contact Switch we tested a few months back, the HiLo SLS is X-Fuson’s newstealth routed dopper post. It’s cable operated, comes in 125mm or 150mm drop and is offered in 30.9 and 31.6mm sizes. To prevent twisting it has a double key-way design and features the excellent toggle style remote from the old Maverick/Crank Bros dropper posts. £299 for the 125mm, £319.99 for the 150mm. upgradebikes.co.uk

Alpinestars Kneeguards

Lightweight kneeguards are all the rage and at 264g Alpinestars Paragon guards are up there with some of the best in terms of weight. They use slightly thicker pre-shaped knee caps, which are also moldable, making them really comfortable. Left and right specific, mesh back panel for breathability. A stack of sizes too, from XS to XL. alpinestars.com

Evoc Photopack

Due to its size the CP35l is a bit of pro-level camera pack but if you’re serious amateur snapper it has bags of space for all your filming needs. There’s also a load of external attachment points, including one for a mattock, just in case you have to dig a stunt before filming it. You can even fit a 3-litre reservoir in one of the side pockets. £269.95. silverfish-uk.com