The Pipedream 200 sleeping bag from Alpkit is a lightweight, sub 500g down-filled sleeping bag that is ideal for bikepacking with a very small compressed pack size. While the comfort temperature makes it more suitable for summer use, I found this could be extended with some thought given to layering inside.

Ortlieb launched the new Handlebar-Pack QR with an incredibly stable retention system, offering easy setup and removal, no permanent attachments and a rock-solid design. The vast 11-litre volume does, however, mean overpacking is easily done. When loaded, there is a lot of movement within the material, including with tyre rub.

The 2021 Specialized Epic Comp delivers a fast, reliable ride that feels at home on the racecourse and the trails. The BRAIN suspension works brilliantly, and the updated geometry makes it extremely capable. However, despite the Comp being the cheapest Epic model in the range, it's still at a price point that makes it unaffordable to some, despite the more basic componentry. 

The Altura Vortex 2 front roll combines durable, waterproof materials with a large main storage area in addition to an accessible, quick-access pocket. It is reasonably stable in use, assuming the supplied strap is long enough, or an alternative is sourced, and it has stood up to some poor weather.

The Miss Grape Tendril 4.10 is a fully waterproof handlebar bag designed to fit road or mountain bikes. The bag offers 4 to 10 litres of space through a very narrow double-ended opening. I found it was not the most stable bag in use, especially on a carbon bar.

The Canyon Grail:ON CF 8.0 combines a top-performing Bosch Performance CX motor with a large 500Wh battery that gives huge range potential. Wide tyres and the S15 VCLS seatpost aid comfort, but the double-decker bar will likely divide opinions and impacts fit options.

The Schwalbe G-One R is a gravel tyre with an all-new tread pattern that moves away from previous G-series versions. It offers an incredible mix of speed and grip that puts it at the top amongst other leading brands. There is little, if anything, to dislike, although the performance comes at a price.

Designed for challenging rides, bikepacking adventures and long tours, the Redshift Kitchen Sink handlebar offers multiple hand positions, including the "endurance loop", resulting in quite a unique handlebar.

The Ere Research Tenaci TLR is a smooth-rolling gravel tyre available in a generous 700x44 size. The low profile tread combined with the volume makes it very comfortable and reasonably quick. On dry firm trails, it also provides more grip than you might expect, especially cornering but traction on loose and wet surfaces is limited.

The Redshift ShockStop PRO stem is an absolute revelation in terms of the performance on offer, making an instant and noticeable difference to comfort for off-road and gravel riding. Setup is simple, and it needs no further adjustment. However, it is much more expensive than the standard version for the sake of a few titanium bolts.