
MTB Technology 2026: Gearbox, Automatic Shifting and the Future
From gearbox drivetrains to automatic shifting and 32-inch hardtails, here is the tech our team hopes to see on the trails in 2026.

From gearbox drivetrains to automatic shifting and 32-inch hardtails, here is the tech our team hopes to see on the trails in 2026.

Our Continental Grand Prix TR review: BlackChili grip, 13.7 W rolling resistance and a 340 g weight at a lower price than the GP5000 range.

Do you really need studded bike tires? Learn how studs work, what they cost, how to break them in and how to ride safely on ice.

From bike computers and cadence sensors to power meters and the Garmin Varia radar: the cycling gadgets that are actually worth your money.

Fox forks and rear shocks explained: what 34, 36, 38 and Factory mean, how to choose for trail, enduro or XC, and when to service.

A professional mechanic explains which tire levers to buy, which materials to avoid and how to change a tire without damaging your rim.

Compare the best bike chains and cassettes for 2026: KMC E12, Shimano XTR and SRAM X01 for e-bikes and MTBs, plus compatibility and wear tips.

A simple three-phase bike maintenance schedule: pre-ride M-Check, monthly care and an annual service, with intervals for MTB and e-bike riders.

Learn how to spot bike component wear on your chain, cassette, brakes, tires and bearings, and when to replace each part.

Buying a used bike? Here's what to inspect, replace and service first, plus the extra diagnostics a used e-bike needs.