File 01 · Fast dirt
Cross-country MTB
Efficient climbing, responsive steering and limited forgiveness. Learn when low weight matters—and when a calmer trail bike is wiser.
Open XC analysisCategory desk / Four files
Start with the job, not the badge.
No single bicycle wins every surface. These reviews decode durable decisions—body position, tyre volume, suspension, cargo, braking and service burden—without inventing model tests or a universal “best”.
File 02 · Assisted trail
Trail e‑MTB
Support changes pacing, not physics. Examine motor feel, battery planning, handling mass, brakes and legal route context.
Open e‑MTB analysis
File 03 · Soft luggage
Bikepacking rig
A system review covering tyre clearance, mounting points, bag interference, packing order and wet-weather discipline.
Open bikepacking analysis
File 04 · Durable travel
Touring bicycle
Stable geometry, racks and repairable parts reward patient travel. Compare that strength with weight and rough-trail limits.
Open touring analysisA useful comparison order
Fit → surface → load → service.
Begin with the rider and the recurring route. A premium component cannot rescue an unsuitable position, too little tyre clearance or a gearing range that makes loaded climbing miserable.
- Confirm the position is sustainable for the intended hours.
- Choose tyres and suspension for the roughest recurring surface.
- Add luggage and water before judging handling or gearing.
- Prefer parts you can maintain where the bicycle will travel.
Next decision
Match the machine to a real line.
Read the route dossiers for official planning anchors, surface questions and realistic exit strategies.