The Apidura Backcountry Full Frame pack is a strong, weatherproof bag with lots of useful storage features for bikepacking adventures. It is expensive, with other full custom options available for less, but it is hard to fault the performance. The pack is available in three sizes to suit different styles and sized bikes.

The updated Fox Racing Ranger jacket offers excellent weather protection and great breathability. The fit is ideal for off-road riding and relaxed enough not to look out of place off the bike, but the large fixed hood might not be everyone's cup of tea.

The Repente Artax GLM is a lightweight, high-performance saddle suitable for on and off-road use. While it might look minimal, I found it to be extremely comfortable, in fact, one of the most comfortable saddles I have ever used.

The Rockrider XC Light Hydration Backpack from Decathlon is a small pack that is more suited to shorter trips. It is far from perfect, with some fit issues and not the best use of the limited space, but it is still a great option for the money.

The WTB Ranger is a mountain bike tyre aimed towards cross-country riding. This mode is available in several widths, including the 2.25” tested here. It works well on softer, loamy trails and in dry conditions with predictable levels of grip.

The Michelin Jet XC2 is a dry weather cross-country tyre that has the potential to deliver incredible levels of grip for the style, size and weight in the right conditions. As you might expect, it doesn't cope with mud well, and there are question marks about the casing protection, but it is incredible as a race-day summer tyre.

The Carbon Suspension Fork Mount from Tailfin helps answer a genuine problem for mountain bike riders who need to carry more kit for bikepacking or longer rides. The beautifully made carbon fibre part works really well to justify the high price.

Momum Grip Glue is a product with a very specific purpose, and it works very well, but perhaps too well. It might be worth trying if you really struggle with grips moving, but only if you can work fast enough.

The Momum Geragrip Balboa are silicone grips with a wide 34mm diameter. Available in several colours, they work well in wet and dry conditions, with a reasonably firm density that still offers good comfort.

The Ranger Essentials Long Sleeve is a relatively simple jersey that performs really well. It is only available in a single colour and has no abrasion-resistant fabrics, but it is very comfortable and can be worn in a range of temperatures.