The Trek Top Fuel 9.9 SSL has been in the Bikemagic long-term stable for quite a while now, and it’s rapidly turned into the single most impressive bike for the past eight months.

Also carbon is the Whyte 19 Carbon Race which offers a chunky curvy carbon fibre frame in a tight taut hardtail package. It’s hard not to enjoy its simplicity of purpose, but it’s not the most forgiving bike ever.

Bikemagic readers have been active recently, with David Branston reviewing his Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Expert.

He called it a “good all-rounder” stating that in “3 months I’ve completed Red Routes in Hamsterley, Whinlatter, Ae, Dalbeattie, Mabie, Keilder and Dalby along with some Black sections. The bikes capable of far more than I have the skills for!” – that’s quite some recommendation.

It’s not all been plain sailing though, the Avid Elixir brakes have caused some problems, the “front required bleeding and getting the caliper alignment just right to prevent pad rubbing can be frustrating.”

He rounds off with “If you’re looking for a good all round full sus trail bike that is relatively light, climbs and descends well, has capabilty to grow with you as your skills increase, and can tackle all but the most extreme routes – then I’d fully recommend.”

Sounds like a solid two thumbs up to us.

Reviewing the Trek Fuel EX 9, Jonny Davis reckons it’s “all the bike you,ll ever need this side of full downhill [bike].”

He continues, saying it’s “very stable very comfortable good up and down, will tackle all UK trail centers easily, is easily serviceable with a no quibble guarantee. If there’s a better bike for the money i don’t know where to find it.”

Finally this week, I’ve published my review of the Fox Altitude shorts, which have been pressed into hard service since the spring. During this time they’ve served my needs admirably, only the lightweight fabric showing its weakness during one heavy stack.

Have you been riding something interesting that you’d like to share your experience with the Bikemagic readers? If so, it’s easy and free to add your review, simply head to the Reviews Section and get writing.