Suppose you want performance wheels for a gravel bike at a reasonable price. In that case, the Ere Research Tenaci GR20 wheelset delivers a good blend of weight, stiffness and strength with a wide internal rim profile suitable for wider gravel tyres.

It might have drop handlebars and knobbly tyres, but the Salsa Cutthroat C GRX 810 is no normal gravel bike and nor is it a mountain bike. Instead, it is a hybrid of the two, designed to tackle the demanding ultra-adventure race, the Tour Divide. While that may seem niche, I found it incredibly capable and a huge amount of fun to ride. All the same, it does beg the question: would a hardtail mountain bike be a better option?​

If you value comfort over pedalling performance, the DMT KM4 shoes offer a knit construction upper that allows impressive comfort through its flexible material. The flex in the sole makes them best suited to trail and general riding rather than racing. In hot weather, comfort is further improved by the generous airflow this knit fabric allows. The downside is that water also passes through like a sock.​

The Spank Flare 25 handlebar uses Vibrocore technology, a foam inserted into the tubing that does exactly what it claims, reducing vibrations and improving comfort. The effect is most noticeable on higher frequency bumps, like rough roads or some gravel tracks. Installation is no different to a standard bar, although it is best to ignore the guide markings.

The Spank Flare gravel bar tape combines microfibre tape with gel pads to create a thick profile that aims to create a more comfortable cockpit. The tape has some stretch, making it easy to apply, although, despite Spank suggesting it is extra-long, there was only just enough to fit a set of 42cm wide bars.

The Vittoria Terreno is as close as you will get to a slick tread for a mountain bike, giving a smooth, fast ride. The grip is better than you might expect, although slippery conditions are still best avoided, especially on the front. If the trails are dry and you want some speed, the Terreno is very quick.

The Halo GXC tyres are designed as an all-around gravel tyre, and while they can cope with most conditions, they fail to excel in any. In dry, loose terrain, they slide easily, and traction is never fantastic. They also size up under the stated width.

The Kona Libre EL is an electrically assisted gravel bike with a Shimano Steps E7000 drive motor. It delivers a relaxed but capable ride with all the power you might wish for. There are plenty of mount options, should you wish to explore further with a smaller 650b wheel size that allows for a wider tyre. However, the choice of tyres may be the biggest performance limiter.

While carbon wheels continue to come down in price, the VEL 30 GRL does so while maintaining superb hub performance. Stiff, wide rims matched with rapid hub engagement, and a handful of great but small touches make for a great all-around wheelset.

The Alpkit Aeronaut is a lightweight tent with an inflatable pole with some features that make it a great setup for bikepacking adventures. It packs down small and is suitable for taller people given the size, although it's not as quick to pitch as some other tents.