This month in MBUK magazine, we test four trail-smashing hardtails, pit a mountain bike and a gravel bike head-to-head in a commuting race and find out whether Rob Warner can learn how to whip under Olly Wilkins' wing.
We also find the best pairs of XC/trail shoes and flat pedals, and bring you all the latest kit reviews in Wrecked and Rated.
Trail-smashing hardtails
Full-suspension bikes may appear to rule the roost when it comes to full trail-shredding capability, but that doesn't mean the humble hardtail has become obsolete. We tear down some hills on four contemporary machines to see if they can keep up with their bouncier brothers when the going gets rough.
Work hard, play hard
More and more people are turning to two wheels for their daily commute. But cycling to work doesn't mean you need to fork out for a road bike. After all, could a road bike get you to the morning meeting by way of some proper trails and a pump track? We race a hardtail and a gravel bike head-to-head to see which brings the best balance of fun and efficiency on the way to the office.
Can Warner learn to whip?
He's a downhill legend and the face (and voice) of downhill World Cup commentary. But when it comes to getting sideways in the air, Rob Warner isn't all he could be. Can the one and only Olly Wilkins teach an old dog a new trick?
Flat pedals on test
Clips or flats? It's an age-old question that gets mountain bikers into a lively debate whenever it's asked. If you're firmly in the 'foot out, flat out' camp, you'll want to check out our test – we've rated the best sets around for comfort, stability, durability and practicality.
Snowdonia Dirty Weekender
Our resident route finder, Max Darkins, heads up to Snowdonia National Park for a three-ride weekender on a variety of this beautiful area's best tracks. From the forested valleys to the wind-blasted mountaintops, there's something for all riders here, including the mighty Snowdon itself.
Swindon Trail Crew
Several pro riders have been geotagging their social media posts with Swindon as a bit of an in-joke. But as our staff writer Luke discovers, the trails around the Wiltshire town are no laughing matter…
And that's not all…
This issue of MBUK is jam-packed with all the latest and greatest bikes, product reviews and news stories from the mountain biking world. There are brand new bikes from Norco and Privateer, along with pages of product reviews that include Sprindex’s adjustable coil spring.
Free gift
No tool set is complete without tyre levers, and we're giving away an exclusive MBUK set with this issue! What's more, tyre levers can be much more versatile than you might think, so be sure to check out this month's Grimetime for our advice on the best ways to utilise yours.
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