Dappere

Intrigued by Sportopia's pick-up service. I wasn't aware that anyone offered something like that, to be honest. What's the process and turnaround time like?

Seems like finding a good bike shop with decent service is really tough these days.😔

Isn't that place in Durbanville? If that's the case, the OP might just be safe 😂

Yeah, Campagnolo priced themselves out of the market alongside poor decisions in product development. A 1x14 could well be the next big thing, or we might see something like Classified Hubs gaining more popularity.

Definitely, Campagnolo did launch Ekar, a 1x13 groupset targeted at the gravel market, but from what I can tell, it didn't really take off. I suppose we'll just have to wait and see what the bike industry comes up with next, sticking to their 'lighter, better, faster' ethos.

I suppose the real question then is, did they manage to keep those folks happy? 🤣

Last year, the Banhoek route became quite challenging towards the end. The only issue was the intersection of the Marathon and half-marathon routes with the fun ride and race, especially near the single track on the way back down. This led to bottlenecks, with young kids on the single track pedaling their hearts out amidst a rush of cyclists speeding down. 🤣 Are you doing the marathon?

Yep, I am. It's an event I do every year – really well put together, awesome trails, and it's basically on my doorstep.

Boils down to several factors: the kind of riding you do, the trails you frequently tackle, and naturally, personal preference. I've observed that many of the latest XC bikes come standard with a 34T. This might be attributed to the aforementioned factors and feedback from riders/bike shops, or possibly because the newer 12x models have a 52T at the rear, providing riders with a bailout gear if necessary, thus enabling the use of a larger chainring at the front.

I picked up the phrase "Lake is a bike fitter's dream" from a video featuring Bikefit James. 😆

I've had these for nearly a year; admittedly, they're a bit dirty from a ride yesterday. They show no visible signs of wear. Since purchasing them, they've endured stage races, gravel races, and a plethora of training rides in rain, mud, and sunshine, including the occasional hike-a-bike.

Highly recommended. In my view, Lake are the finest shoes you can purchase, having sampled various other brands previously. Generally speaking, they are a bike fitter's dream as they provide a multitude of fitting options, particularly in terms of width - those with broader feet often find a superior fit with Lake's. They offer a sizing guide on their website, and they're extremely responsive when you contact them. Should you wish to try a pair in person, you may visit Gear Change. Each model features a different last, and the model you choose depends on the width and length of your feet. I currently own the MX332 and they are quite simply the best-fitting shoes I've ever had. I had the MX238 before, and again, experienced no issues. These shoes utilise high-quality materials in their construction, which contributes to their longevity - they are durable.

+1 Having had both 1x and 2x on my gravel bike, I appreciate the flexibility the 2x offers. I had GRX Di2 2x on my bike, then switched to 1x before shortly reverting back to 2x. For exclusive gravel riding, 1x worked extremely well. Most of the gravel rides I undertake include some tarmac, and on occasion, I would join a road ride too. The 2x setup allows me to have a larger chainring at the front for flatter gravel races/routes, while also providing a bailout gear for steep climbs – a versatility the 1x simply didn't offer.

I reckon that being part of their professional racing team and vending their merchandise via his cycle shop are separate endeavours. It certainly boosted the brand’s sales, thanks to Greg riding a Santa Cruz and his cycle shop offering their goods. However, they also supply Specialized, as far as I'm aware. I find it hard to picture Santa Cruz quickly abandoning such a profitable venture. I presume GM Cycles will offer patrons a broader selection in light of Greg's new affiliation with the Norco factory team

https://bikehub.co.za/classifieds/bike-hub-pay

I couldn't agree more. With cycling businesses and brands facing such a downturn in the current market, one would naturally expect them to up their game in terms of customer service. It's quite a conundrum to see the opposite trend in the bike shop industry.

Keep in mind this is my take and others' views might differ: Versatile Tread Design: The Ikon has a tread pattern that's effective in a variety of conditions, including hardpack, loose over hard, and rocky trails, which are common in stage races. Lightweight and Fast Rolling: Designed to be lightweight, the Ikon rolls quickly, aiding in maintaining speed and reducing rider fatigue over long distances. 3C MaxxSpeed Compound: Balancing grip and rolling resistance, providing an excellent compromise for stage races. Durability and Puncture Resistance: The Ikon is known for its durability and features like EXO sidewall protection to resist cuts and abrasions, important in rugged conditions. Proven Track Record: The Ikon has been used successfully in various marathon and stage races worldwide, adding to its credibility as a reliable choice for demanding events.

+1 for ikon. You could also consider Ardent Race upfront and Ikon on the back.

I assume you are referring to Ciovita's exchange process? I do agree it's less than ideal. Given their reputation as a direct-to-consumer brand, one would expect them to prioritize a more efficient system.

Cor, what a revelation this is! If only it had popped up before I chucked out all those tyres, post a failed cleaning mission.Every attempt begins with me brimming with British bulldog spirit, but by the time I'm halfway through the first one, I find myself in a right pickle. The sealant clings on like a stubborn limpet, and there I am, questioning my life choices, feeling as deflated as the tyre itself, and longing for a pint to soothe my frayed nerves.

@valen_tin Do have a look at this thread; it's replete with valuable information -> https://forum.bikehub.co.za/topic/194617-bikepacking-the-cross-cape-town/#comment-3932346 Additionally, peruse the Cape Cycle Routes website for a variety of route options. The Cross Cape comes highly recommended -> https://capecycleroutes.co.za/route/cross-cape-route They also provide a selection of recommended accommodations.

You are exactly one of the reasons why people can’t learn from others’ mistakes. We all make them. Yet, when someone tries to do the right thing by informing the community, they just get criticised and called stupid. This is why more people can’t learn or be enabled to see the red flags.

If you've signed up for one of their events and read the accompanying manual, you'll get the impression that much of the experienced friction might have been intentional. The goal is to provide a space for those who enjoy unsupported ultra-distance bike packing, offering a shared experience of pure enjoyment – no fluff, no nonsense, no bureaucracy – in a cycling discipline with like-minded individuals. This doesn't resonate with everyone, and that's perfectly fine.

banhoek bikes in Somerset west has a good variety of Tufo tyres. https://banhoekbikes.co.za

+1 for USWE