The Specialized Rockhopper is a bike steeped in history, one that will have been the first port of call for many first time riders. We check out the new hardtail ahead of the launch as the brand combines the Pitch and Rockhopper ranges as one super-range of hardtail, budget mountain bikes. 

We take a look at two of the latest lightweight, full face enduro helmets to hit the shops, the 100% Trajecta and the IXS Trigger FF. Plus there's men's riding kit from Leatt, a new bike from Specialized and a carbon lid from Alpina. Dig in.

The Vitus Mythique 29 VRS is a solid performer at the budget end of the scale. The 1x12 drivetrain is a real advantage and the geometry suits whatever kind of riding you fancy, while the tyres are a great spec for UK use. While some components underperform – the X-Fusion fork and Shimano brakes most notably – they're okay for the price. What's more, the Mythique is a bike worth upgrading, and for new riders looking for their first full suspension trail bike (without destroying the bank account), it’s a sensible choice.

The Alpinestars Paragon Plus Knee Protector is a good value, slim and light pad that offers comfy-pedalling protection. The elasticated sleeve is breathable, the armour extends some way down the shin and it doesn't move or chafe. The top of the sleeve does wrinkle down though, which is annoying. 

Ride tracking app Strava has moved it's overall segment leaderboards to a subscriber-only feature in a huge shakeup of both the paid and free offering. While the top ten segment times remain free to view, the changes are aimed at 'dedicating Strava to our community' - and we assume reaching the profitability that has so far eluded the company.

On the search for the best kneepads that money can buy, we have protective gear in from 7iDP in the form of Project Knee's and Sam Hill Knee's, there's also an M2 helmet to add to our big group of helmet tests. Elsewhere we have shoes from Specialized and a new kind of woven jersey and a seamless baselayer from Megmeister. Dig in....

There is an ever-increasing choice of gravel and adventure bike tyres available online and in the shops. From fast-rolling dry weather tyres to knobbly ones for wet muddy conditions, they come in a range of diameters and tread patterns. Here are the best tyres for 700c wheels, it's quite a list, get comfy and dig in...

The women's Launch jersey from Pearl Izumi has enviable eco credentials and a great fit for summer mountain biking. The only thing to stomach is the price, but when performance is good and fit is sweet, it's worth reaching into your pocket for the extra cash.