Hope

Hope was showing its new Moto disc brake. Like Avid’s Code, it’s aimed at the freeride fraternity. The caliper has six pistons and there’s a reach point adjuster on the lever. Hope also had some new rotor styles on display, as well as two new seatposts, available in either aluminium or carbon.

DT Swiss

DT had a couple of new wheels, but most interesting of the new range was the SSD Carbon shock. The already svelte air shock has been upgraded with a carbon body, saving a few grams – a 165mm shock weighs just 145g. They’ve also updated the standard wheel quick release with the Ratchet Wheelmounting System (RWS). We were surprised how easy it was to operate, once someone had showed you how… Simply tighten by turning the lever clockwise, then lift the lever and orientate the lever however you want. Very clever, and very simple.

Blackburn

Some interesting innovations from Blackburn. First, they’ve combined a CO2 inflator with a multitool, so you can now take just one tool which will cover every eventuality. They’ve packed in 3, 4, 5 and 6mm allen keys, T-25 Torx wrench, chain tool, tyre lever and a Phillips and flat-bladed screwdriver. They also had a neat HRM/computer mount that goes under the stem top cap.

Continental

The new SpeedKing tyre features a low profile, widely spaced tread. Weighs 400g for the 2.1in version, or 450g in 2.3in guise. We also fell in love with its inner tube dispensing machine. Imagine you’ve punctured while out riding, and the trail centre or bike shop just round the corner is closed. If they have one of these machines outside, problem solved.

Ergon

Ergon is best know for its odd-looking, but increasingly popular, grips and bar ends. Now it’s added an interesting take on the hydration pack to their range. Central to the design is the semi-rigid plastic frame, which is intended to make the bag more stable and also offer less strain on your back.

USE/Exposure Lights

Nothing new from USE, except this fully-pimped Exposure Turbo…

Panaracer

The Rampage is all-new. The square blocked tyre, designed as an all-rounder for all conditions and all terrains, comes in 2.1in (with UST option) or a proper 2.35in.