In just a few short years Genesis has evolved into a full-bodied bicycle range, covering all aspects of cycling. For 2010 Genesis has brought in the services of a design agency so there’s a raft of new graphics across the range introducing a fresh new look.

But it’s not just new paint that has been splashed about the range, for there are many changes underneath too. Such as the aluminium framed Core series which has been updated with a lighter tubeset, with round tapered top and downtubes said to reduce the overall weight by about 115g. And yes, “round” is being pitched as new and innovative. Strange days. Ride quality is said to have been improved with lighter gauge stays. Prices start from £599.99.

Last year Genesis introduced the Alpitude, a frame intended to find favour with those seeking out steep and rough trails, and for 2010 the head angle has been reduced by 0.5°. RockShox’s new 120-150mm Revelation Race fork with Maxle Lite, Maxxis 2.35” High Roller tyres and Shimano SLX groupset (complete with bashguard), further hint at the bike’s intended riding.

Something of a mould-breaker, the iO Id combined the company’s singlespeed frame with a Shimano Alfine hub gear. It was based on the singlespeed iO, a Reynolds 520 frame which for 2010 has been fitted with removable bolt-in cable guides should you want to upgrade to an Alfine hub at a later date. Or vice versa…

The Altitude remains unchanged, with the same geometry as last year and the same choice of frame materials (Reynolds 520, Reynolds 853 and a titanium option), but with the new addition of rack mounts on the stays and dropouts. Prices and specs have been revised a little, with prices starting from £799.99 rising to £2799.99.

I know Mike is fond of his cyclocross bikes, so it would be wrong of me to complete this article without first drawing your attention to the Vapour. Not a new model, but a fresh new lick of red paint and a revised front brake hanger is said to considerably improve braking performance.

More at www.genesisbikes.co.uk