Paul Burwell
Paul has been testing mountain bikes and products for the best part of 30 years, he’s passed comment on thousands of components and bikes, from the very first 29ers and dropper posts to latest e-MTBs and electronic drivetrains. He first put pen to paper for Mountain Bike International magazine but then contributed to What Mountain Bike, Cycling Today and Cycling Weekly magazines before a 20 year stint at MBR magazine. An ex-elite level XC racer, he’s broken more bones than records but is now sustained on a diet of trail building, skills coaching and e-bike trail shredding.
Latest articles by Paul Burwell
Cane Creek ViscoSet review – damped headset for enhanced steering control
By Paul Burwell published
Review Unique headset with reconfigurable shims and viscous damping for improved steering control
Scott Genius ST 900 Tuned review – a redefined 29er trail bike with an in-frame rear shock
By Paul Burwell published
Review It’s not cheap but the Scott Genius ST 900 Tuned is an amazing piece of engineering with its own unique aesthetic
Torque Covert 7 Multi Tool – a plug-and-play tool with built-in magnetism
By Paul Burwell published
Review Stealthily conceals seven essential tools in your bottom bracket, including a sturdy chain breaker, for trail-side tweaks and repairs
USWE Zulo 2 Hydration Hip Pack – a quick shot on a short hop
By Paul Burwell published
Review Classed as a race pack, this lightweight 1 liter hipster is perfect for a quick blast where you only need minimal tools and the occasional H2O top up
POC VPD Air Legs review – pull-on knee pad with full-on protection
By Paul Burwell published
Review Contoured knee sleeve for all day riding comfort but can the slim construction and lightweight protection be enough to save you if things go pear-shaped?
7 Protection Sam Hill Lite knee pad review – featherweight knee preservation
By Paul Burwell last updated
Review Lightweight and cool running, 7 Protection’s knee sleeve is perfect for an all-day pedal when only minimal protection is required
Scott Soldier 2 knee guard review – a lightweight, pull-on sleeve with smart tech insert
By Paul Burwell last updated
Review Mid-weight knee sleeve with a wraparound insert built from D3O. Utilizes smart technology that automatically molds to your knee contours and stiffens on landing, providing enhanced impact protection and abrasion resistance
Troy Lee Designs A3 helmet review – top end trail lid with extended rear bumper
By Paul Burwell published
Review Refined helmet shape with dual density foam core, brain-saving MIPS liner, magnetic visor and clasp, with a new skull-hugging rear profile
WTB Verdict TCS Light High Grip review – awesome grip levels
By Paul Burwell published
Review Built using WTB's Tritec triple-compound, this is a tacky trail tire with real bite on all surfaces
Maxxis Assegai 3C MaxxGrip EXO+ review – consistent all-rounder with superb grip
By Paul Burwell published
Review Originally designed as a gravity tire, the Maxxis Assegai doesn’t disappoint on the trail
Kenda HellKat Pro ATC review – a well-priced twin compound all-rounder
By Paul Burwell published
Review The ambidextrous HellKat Pro ATC is Kenda’s flagship tire that works well front or back. It gets a supple ATC casing, low rebound rubber compound and is tubeless ready
Specialized Eliminator T7 Grid Trail review – fleet footed rear tire with a bargain price tag
By Paul Burwell published
Review A high-tech/low-price tire with a reinforced build and versatile tread pattern. Recommended rear only, but tubeless ready and fat and thin options for both wheel sizes