We’ve already brought you details about Whyte’s new 46, an adjustable travel, Maverick-forked crossbreed XC/big hit beastie that manages to get big tyres, brakes and travel into a sub-28lb climbable package. The £2,750 bike packs an adjustable travel (4 to 6in)Quad-Link rear suspension, Maverick twin-crown fork (6in travel with a 4in travel lockdown and 24mm through-axle), XT transmission, Hope Mono 4-pot brakes with Goodridge hoses and various other goodies. And Whyte has a test fleet so you can have a go for yourself…

A number of participating dealers have bikes available for proper off-road test rides without charge. You’ll need to speak to the shop to sort out a ride – a list of dealers who’ve currently got bikes and ones who will have is available at www.whytebikes.com.