£5,000 US brand’s fresh ‘quiver killer’
THE HOTTEST NEW KIT
The 2023 Sensor Carbon is said to be lighter and designed to fit a wider range of riders than previous iterations. GT have also increased the suspension travel and adjusted the geometry, in an attempt to make this do-it-all bike even more versatile.
A steep 77-degree seat tube angle and generous reach figures should provide comfort for long days in the saddle and aid climbing, without compromising control on the descents. Downhill, the new Sensor Carbon’s 140mm of rear-wheel travel, 150mm fork and 29in wheels should make it more capable than ever.
The range-topping Pro LE seen here is equipped with a RockShox Lyrik Ultimate RC2 fork and Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T shock, 12-speed SRAM X01 /GX Eagle drivetrain and Code brakes. Production bikes will come with Continental KRYPTOTAL tyres, not the Maxxis rubber wrapped around our test bike’s WTB rims.
The new Sensor Carbon is available in four frame sizes, from £3,400. Shorter-travel alloy and ST versions are also available www.gtbicycles.com
ALPINESTARS RIDING KIT
Shirt £110, pants £125 A perfect mix of technical and casual?
The Stella Drop Algorithm pants have been designed specifically for women (a men’s version is also available), with Alpinestars paying careful consideration to fit and comfort. A mixture of recycled nylon and spandex provides multi-directional stretch, while laser perforations help with airflow. An inner mesh waistband and ratchet closure help keep things secure. You get three zipped pockets, one of them big enough for a smartphone. The pants are available in five sizes, in black only.
Designed to look good on and off the bike, the Whistler Wind Block Plaid Shirt combines a relaxed fit, which should ensure good freedom of movement, with internal panels on the chest and sleeves, to block out the breeze, and press-stud closures on the front, cuffs and small chest pocket. It comes in five (men’s) sizes, in maroon or blue.
www.zyrofisher.co.uk
FIVE TEN KESTREL BOA SHOES
£200 Clipless DC daps
Known for their sticky rubber and gravity-riding focus, Five Ten are taking a leap into the ever-growing short-travel trail/XC market with this reworking of their popular Kestrel clipless shoe.
This dedicated ‘downco
