Pete Smith
Articles by Pete Smith
Gusset S2 35mm stem review
Gusset's S2 stem is a good-looking, solidly constructed, short-reach stem aimed at enduro and gravity riders. It's well-priced and performs brilliantly but is a few grams heavier than the lightest in class and the lack of colour options may be a deal breaker for some.
e*thirteen Grappler 2.5in Enduro Mopo tyre review
e*thirteen's recent Grappler Mopo tyre is wonderfully grippy in all but the thickest of mud and is available in two tough gravity-focused casings. Unfortunately, there’s no lightweight trail offering available yet. Price and weight are reasonable and even in the softest compound and the durability is impressive. Rolling speed is okay considering the soft rubber and how aggressive the tread pattern is, but for more pedally rides there are better options available.
e*thirteen All Terrain Gen 2 2.4in MoPo tyre review
The second-generation e*thirteen All Terrain tyre is a mixed-conditions all-rounder that can be run front or rear and works great in all but is not vey effectve in the slop. This DH version features an incredibly tough, puncture-proof casing and the brand's tacky, slow-rebounding Mopo rubber. Rolling speed is decent for such a beefy soft compound tyre and it works great as a rear option paired with something more aggressively treaded up front. Fitting is a pain though due to a stiff sidewall and a tight bead and the DH casing is overkill for most riders.
Vitus Mythique 27 VRX trail bike review
The Vitus Mythique 27 VRX is an award-winning entry-level trail bike. At £2,100, it's hard to beat the spec level of this VRX model – it's a fantastic all-around trail bike with spot-on modern geometry that means it climbs like a billy goat and is an absolute hoot when things head downwards. Only its somewhat portly weight and a few misjudged component specs mar an otherwise perfect scorecard.
OneUp Components V2 Dropper Post review
The V2 Dropper Post is OneUp Component's second go at a dropper post that brings in a huge range of travels and diameters to offer one dropper for almost every rider out there. Where it impresses with its collection of options, it's flawless in its performance with excellent reliability and a silky smooth drop. The V2 Dropper Post confidently stakes its claim as one of the best dropper posts on the market and here's why.
Sidi Dimaro Trail MTB shoe review
The Sidi Dimaro Trail is a super stylish and comfy gravity shoe that manages to be light and airy yet tough as old boots. The sticky Vibram sole is ace and thanks to a bolt-on cleat cover made from the same rubber, it's hugely versatile, too, working great with either clipless or flat pedals, although the deep cleat recess means they don't play well with some caged clipless systems. This performance and quality construction comes at a price though – these riding daps are super expensive.
USE Vyce 31.8mm stem review
The Ultimate Vyce is wildly different from any other stem on the market. By utilising a unique expanding wedge design to lock down both bars and steerer via a single bolt, USE has created a super lightweight yet stiff stem and gives it a nice clean and minimalist aesthetic. Unfortunately, in its attempt to simplify cockpit setup, USE has complicated things since all adjustments must be made at once, which requires a lot of patience and a steady hand.
Look Trail ROC+ flat pedal review
The Look Trail ROC+ is the brand's flagship flat pedal designed to provide maximum traction in any condition. It's a classy-looking pedal that's very grippy indeed thanks to some seriously savage pins, although a more concave design would enhance things further. Build quality and bearing longevity are top notch making this one seriously durable pedal which goes some way in justifying the premium price tag. Unfortunately, the pedal axles are very short, which can cause crank and stay rub for big-footed riders or those with a heels-in riding stance.
DMR Odub handlebar review
The Odub 31.8 Handlebar is the latest model from the component and bike brand DMR. Developed in conjunction with factory rider Olly Wilkins, it's a strong and dependable bar with some clever butting technology that shaves unnecessary weight and makes it very comfortable for a heavy-hitting alloy bar. It's well priced and looks great, just so long as you like the colour black.
Rockrider Feel 900S mountain bike review
The Rockrider Feel 900 S is the French brand's latest carbon-framed 29er trail bike aimed at riders looking for a super-fun bike that's fast and efficient on the climbs and offers a confident and playful ride on the descents. With dialled geometry, 130mm of rear suspension and a burly 140mm fork, the Feel 900s is a proper little trail ripper at a price that's hard to believe – only a few minor spec niggles and a slightly flexy rear end keep it from getting a perfect score.