James Blackwell

James Blackwell

Freelance writer

James, aka Jimmer, is a two-wheeled fanatic. With 20 years working on MBUK, he got to ride some amazing places, ride with the world's top pros and of course, test a lot of bikes and kit. Having ridden and tested everything from XC to DH, he now calls the trail/downcountry stable his happy place. Although a self-confessed race-a-phobe, it hasn’t stopped him racing XC, DH, Enduro, Marathon and the notorious Megavalanche. Fast talking, fast riding, he’s still happy to send it, and likes nothing better than putting new kit through the grinder. Usually found bothering the local wildlife around Bath’s trails, he’s in his element whether on a bike, in the mountains, or immersed in the ocean surfing his local breaks around Devon.

Latest articles by James Blackwell

Photo of Hip pack from behind being worn
Restrap Utility Hip Pack review – a hip pack or a bar bag? Well both actually

By James Blackwell Published

review Designed and made in Yorkshire in the UK, bikepacking specialist Restrap has created an excellent multi-use bikepacking bag that’s not afraid to mix it up on the mountain bike trails too

review
Side on shot of the ABUS Airdrop MIPS Helmet
ABUS Airdrop MIPS Helmet review – is it form over function for this cool-looking enduro full-face helmet?

By James Blackwell Published

Review The Airdrop is ABUS first full-face helmet aimed at the enduro and DH racer. Jimmer takes to this enduro rig to find out if it’s up there with the established big hitters.

Review
Side on photo of the Leatt MTB Enduro 3.0 Helmet
Leatt MTB Enduro 3.0 Helmet review – high-performance, 3-in-1 convertible

By James Blackwell Published

Review A great option for those who want more for their money, versatility and killer looks in a high-performance package

Review
A man wearing Rapha Explore Shorts in a wood
Rapha Explore Shorts review – versatile gravel/MTB baggies

By James Blackwell Published

Review If gravel or adventure riding is your thing but the all-out Lycra look isn’t, then these shorts could be what you’ve been looking for

Review
Bike inner tube folded up on wood surface
Eclipse Off-Road Inner Tube review – featherweight and tiny, is this the ultimate inner tube?

By James Blackwell Published

Review The Eclipse is claimed to be the lightest inner tube in the world – does it survive when I put it through its paces?

Review
Melon Diablo Goggles
Melon Optics Diablo Goggle review – fully customizable googles at an affordable price

By James Blackwell Published

Review Performance-focused goggles with a unique customization option at a bargain price, but are they style over substance?

Review
Renthal bike grips on mossy wall
Renthal Lock-On Grip Ultratacky review – superlative levels of grip and comfort

By James Blackwell Published

Review The Ultratacky offers outstanding levels of grip and control for all conditions

Review
Back of man wearing Rapha Trail Hip Pack
Rapha Trail Hip Pack review – does Rapha’s styling and performance transfer well from Tarmac to the trails?

By James Blackwell Published

Review With three liters of cargo space and room for two water bottles Rapha’s mountain bike-specific pack ticks all the right boxes

Review
A pair of Crankbrothers Synthesis XCT 11 29 Carbon Wheels
Crankbrothers Synthesis XCT 11 29 Carbon Wheelset review – do these high-end wheels set the trail alight or just burn a hole in your wallet?

By James Blackwell Published

review Grip, control and comfort are the ingredients that make these front and rear-specific tuned wheels an absolute blast

review
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