The popularity of mountain biking means many established brands have expanded their ranges to include bikes for both tarmac and trail. Sonder is the opposite. It has a reputation for creating rugged machines for rough rides, but now it’s heading on to the smooth with its first full-carbon road bike. In keeping with Sonder’s adventurous philosophy, the Colibri’s been designed for big climbs. If you’ve ever dreamed of tackling the Fred Whitton or the Wrynose pass, this is the bike for you. It strikes a delicate balance between pace, handling and poise, and will keep you safe and comfortable on the most arduous of slogs. There is clearance for 28mm tyres, and the full carbon forks and tapered steerer and headtube, give precise cornering for speedy descents. If you are tempted, you can hire one for a full weekend’s test ride. If you then buy it, they’ll knock the rental off the price. But beware: you’ll find it very hard to give it back (alpkit.com).
Price: frame only £899, full build from £1,649
Frame: full carbon
Gears: Sram Rival 22
Email Martin at martin.love@observer.co.uk or follow him on Twitter @MartinLove166
