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There’s more to spend money on than just fancy new kit

Why shiny new kit may not be the best thing to spend your cash on

We’re all susceptible to the allure of shiny new stuff, but if you want to get faster, improve your race results or just nail that section of trail, will the latest, coolest gear really give you that performance edge? If not, there are other ways to spend your money that are almost guaranteed make you a better rider.

Still a growing force in the UK riding scene, but one that’s proven to get results, is professional skills coaching. Advice from a seasoned rider who can spot your weaknesses and patiently help you overcome them will help any rider go faster.

A riding holiday somewhere with lifts, good weather and endless trails will also improve your riding no end, giving you countless hours on your bike to hone those vital trail skills.

It might seem a bit extreme, but hiring a personal trainer to help you with your fitness and nutrition could still work out cheaper than buying the latest must-have carbon fibre helmet, and unlike a rad looking lid, will almost certainly make you a better rider, and a fitter one at that.

And if none of that sounds appealing, why not have your old bike stripped down and rebuilt? Replace all the worn parts and get your suspension serviced and set up for your weight and riding style, and the results can be quite significant. So what are you waiting for?