MCN STAFF THEIR RIDING KIT ★★★★★

Stay warm and dry with a sub-£1500 laminate Gore-Tex jacket and trousers combo. But which is worth your time and money?

Rider assists and heated grips are a hit but it’s not all rosy

THE BIG TEST

Rear shock failure puts a dampener on Michael’s off-road plans

Decent gear can transform winter rides from agonising discomfort into toasty adventures. Self-proclaimed cold-hater John Westlake explains his solutions