Here at MBR we often get to test some of the nicest and most expensive kit in the world of mountain biking. However, the question we get asked the most is which pieces of kit do we actually use day-in, day-out?

We’ve brought together our favourite products that will allow you to enjoy each ride that little bit more and maximise your time on the bike.

Essential mountain bike kit

These seven simple upgrades will last for ages, so are well worth investing in.

1. Dropper post

Raise or lower your saddle at the push of a button: no QR faffing and no climbing with the saddle too low.

Buyers guide: The best mountain bike dropper posts

Buy Now: RockShox Reverb Stealth at Chain Reaction Cycles from £269.99

2. Controls

A good bar and stem gives you better steering control, while comfy grips stop your hands buzzing.

Buyers guide: The best mountain bike handlebars

Buy Now: Nukeproof Warhead Carbon Riser at £79.99

Buyers guide: The best mountain bike grips

Buy Now: Race Face Half Nelson grips at Wiggle from £14.99

3. Front tyre

Forget expensive suspension forks, start with a good front tyre and dramatically improve grip and cornering speed. Go for a good all-weather tyre, then buy a mud tyre in the autumn if you can stretch to it.

Buyers guide: Best mountain bike tyres

Buy Now: Maxxis High Roller II at Tredz from £32.99

4. Pressure gauge

Hit the tyre-pressure sweetspot with an accurate pressure gauge to ensure maximum grip and minimum punctures.

Buy Now: Oxford Digi Gauge at HelmetCity from £21.99

5. Volume Spacers

Change the spring curve on your fork with just five minutes’ work and plastic tokens. The right tune can dramatically improve performance. Find out how for Rockshox here and Fox here.

Fox: £33.60 for spacers and kit from mojo.co.uk

Rockshox: £12.99 for three from fisheroutdoor.co.uk

6. Shoes

Mountain bike shoes have stiffer soles that your old trainers, for better power transfer, more grip and extra protection from impacts.

Buyers guide: The best mountain bike shoes

Buy Now: Five Ten Freerider at Chain Reaction Cycles from £69.99

7. Liner Shorts

Proper MTB liner shorts cushion the load and make for a comfier ride.

Buyers guide: The best mountain bike shorts

Buy Now: Altura Attack 180 shorts at Leisure Lakes from £34.99