Mountain Bike Gear Reviews

Chris says:

"Great multi-tool, has all the necessary tools. I've had it for years.

The built in tire levers aren't the strongest but I'm used to my hand-me-down steel levers. The rest of the package is tough and reliable. All tools are proper hardened steel and none of them have failed yet.

The built in chain tool and chain hook are well designed and easy to use. The Alien II splits in half to pack flatter in my Camelbak XCT."

Chris says:

"You can't go wrong with Lizard Skins Logo Lock-on mountain bike grips.

Secure, long-lasting and comfortable. They're well made, and the rubber grip itself has just the right hint of stickiness for that extra touch of control. Like wax on a surfboard.

But buy the black ones, or some colour other than white. My white ones show all the dirt and look like crap."

Chris says:

"If it's two things I always find the money for, it's a good chain and good tires.

Shimano XTR chains have superb reliability and the lowest wear rates. That means better shifting and less gear wear long term. And don't forget to fit your chain with a SRAM Powerlink for added versatility and easier maintenance."

Learn how to fit your new chain here, and how to install the SRAM Powerlink here.

Chris says:

"I've always had camelbaks 'cause they're the best. And I love my Octane XCT.

The 2 litre Camelbak Octane XCT is all I need for rides up to 4 hours, because I've got places where I can top up my water.

Its design fits close and comfortable. The side pockets keep the weight of my multi-tool and other items close to my body so that I can move as I like, without stuff swinging around my back on rough and twisty trails."

Chris says:

"There are two types of Camelbak owners. Those that have a cleaning kit and those that are yet to buy one.

I went a few years without a cleaning kit, then bought one and wondered why I held off for so long.

The kit makes cleaning your Camelbak so easy, especially the long flexible drinking tube cleaner - it's a must have. Stops the mould build up in your drinking tube."

Chris says:

"The SRAM Powerlink is one of the best inventions ever. Every mountain biker should use them.

I have one link in my Shimano chain and one spare in my Camelbak. For the sake of five bucks each they make trail-side chain repair a since, and bike cleaning, maintenance and airline transport so much easier."

Split a pack of four Powerlinks with a mate. Learn how to fit Powerlinks here.

Chris says:

"I've been through three pairs of these gloves over the years. Fox quality. Great comfort and protection.

For most rides the knuckle protection could seem a bit over the top, but they've saved my hands more than a few times because I like the thrill of riding really close past immovable objects.

I'll keep wearing them because I never know when I want to get carried away on a ride and go nuts."

Chris says:

"My current pump is an old BETO double shot which I've had for years. It's works well, but I'll be moving to a Crank Brothers Power Pump shortly.

A couple of mates have the Power Pump, I've used it and I'm impressed. It's also shorter than my BETO, so it will fit into my Camelbak XCT more easily.

So many people buy cheap bike pumps, like I used to, only to be stranded in the bush with a busted pump. Do yourself a favour, spend the money and get a good quality pump the first time."

Chris says:

"I've been riding Crank Brothers pedals for years. The first time I saw them the egg beater system and simplicity of the design just made sense to me.

Good mid-sized foot platform for sure- footed all mountain & XC mountain biking.

They've got great mud clearance, too. The Shimano SPD pedals I used to ride always got clogged with mud, whereas Crank Brothers are excellent clipless pedals for all conditions. That proved so true at the 2008 Wildside MTB race."

Chris says:

"I currently wear Shimano SH-M230 Custom Fit Mountain Bike Shoes. They're comfortable and durable shoes. But for my next shoes I will go with the SIDI shoes.

I rode the SIDI Carbons in a race once and they were superb. Excellent heel retention.

The SIDIs aren't cheap, but for me they felt so comfortable and secure that I'll have to get them next time I'm shoe shopping."

Chris says:

"I keep buying this wax lube because it works. It does what it says. It lubricates and protects your chain really well, and doesn't attract dust and grime like wet lubricant does. Your chain stays cleaner for longer.

High quality chain lube makes a big difference."

Chris says:

"Personally I think the homemade inner tube chainstay protectors are best - learn here how to make your own.

But if you couldn't be bothered with the 10 minutes it takes to make one then go a Lizard Skins chainstay protector."

Chris says:

"I couldn't find a link to my current MET cross-country mtb helmet that I usually use, but here's the link to my Giro Carbon Remedy Full Face.

Light and comfortable with removable and washable padding. I use my Remedy for the odd times during the year when all I want to do is a session of downhill runs."

Chris says:

"I used to be able to get Gu cheap, but I still buy it anyway. The stuff works.

Good flavours. Not overpowering, just enough flavour and easily digestible.

I find the Just Plain, Vanilla Bean and Chocolate Outrage flavours in the Gels are best. The Chocolate is a good hit in the really tough parts of a race."