Australian Mountain Bike (AMB) magazine’s latest edition, Issue #217, is now available, offering an in-depth exploration of the dynamic world of mountain biking. This issue delves into the journeys of riders Annie Ford and Ellie Smith, highlighting their resilience in overcoming challenges such as fear, injury, and self-doubt. Their stories provide a profound insight into the mental and physical fortitude required to excel in the sport.
The magazine also provides comprehensive coverage of the 2026 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships held at Mt Buller. From intense cross-country races to thrilling downhill events on one of Australia’s most iconic mountains, AMB breaks down the key moments and results from this premier domestic event.
For adventure enthusiasts, Issue #217 features “Bikepacking Tasmania,” following riders Lucie, Zoe, and Lily as they embark on a journey across Tasmania. This narrative blends bikepacking with elements of survival and role-playing, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of long-distance cycling.
The magazine also delves into the subculture of singlespeed mountain biking with coverage from the 2026 Australian Singlespeed National Championships. This event, a blend of racing and community gathering, showcases the enduring appeal and entertainment value of singlespeeding, with Newcastle delivering another memorable championship.
Addressing a significant yet often overlooked topic, “The Road Back To Riding” offers an honest and insightful look at the physical and mental challenges many women face when returning to mountain biking after childbirth. This feature resonates with a broader audience, shedding light on the complexities of re-entering the sport post-maternity.
On the technical front, AMB provides in-depth reviews of the latest bikes and components. This issue includes evaluations of the Specialized Turbo Levo R Expert, Trek Roscoe 7, and Superior XF 9.6 DC, alongside tests of the new RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, SRAM Motive Ultimate brakes, and the latest additions to the Maxxis MaxTerra range. Additionally, the magazine conducts a comprehensive comparison of 15 trail helmets, assessing factors such as fit, comfort, ventilation, and the latest safety technologies.
As always, AMB offers practical skills and workshop tips throughout the issue. Readers can learn how to confidently tackle steep chutes, understand the process of converting a bike to singlespeed, and explore a range of innovative 3D-printed workshop tools designed to enhance the maintenance experience.
The magazine also includes the latest industry news, an upcoming event calendar, reader survey insights, and a look at Thredbo’s newest double-black downhill trail development. Notably, Issue #217 marks the final edition under the editorship of Anna Beck, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the magazine over the past few years. Her contributions have been instrumental in bringing thoughtful storytelling and strong journalism to AMB, and she will be greatly missed.
For those interested in obtaining a copy, Issue #217 is available for purchase through the AMB website. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the sport, this issue offers valuable insights and inspiration for your mountain biking journey.