willem.dup

@Eddie Stafford Thank you for the positive feedback that I was looking for. Much appreciated.👍 Respect

@Mongoose! Couldn't say it better 👍

ChatGPT and other AIs are certainly hitting the right nerves here. The truth seems to be unsettling for some users on this forum. Hey, if you want to pay R100/km for a race that isn't the toughest MTB challenge, that's entirely your choice. As Elon Musk pointed out, the AI singularity will begin to reveal human flaws and expose real truths—even when it means scrutinizing its own creators.

@dave303e Thank you for the reply. First off, i am not arguing just getting answer for my question and Chatgpt statement. I dont think this is the place to argue. Also I didn't ask about running races or gravel races only Mtb races in south Africa Please dont get me wrong on other races as they all have unique strategy and endurance all over the world. My point is that Cape Epic is not the toughest race and is way over rated for the local market but lucrative for internationals and pros which is good for South Africa economy. Relax, I am not challenging you do the Freedom😉.

@Ozzie NLThank you for the reply, Have you done a cost comparison R/km on events? 🏁 Cost Comparison Table Race Name Distance Entry Fee (2025)Cost per km (approx.) Freedom Challenge RASA2,150 kmR53,000 (standard entry)R24.65/km Included Accommodation Trans Baviaans230 kmR3,747 (2-person team, per rider)R16.29/km Absa Cape Epic658 kmR56,875 (per rider)R86.45/km Included Accommodation Sani2C265 kmR10,000 (approximate)R37.74/km Included Accommodation

What is the toughest MTB race in South Africa ? According to Chatgpt: The Freedom Challenge Race Across South Africa (RASA) is widely considered the toughest mountain bike race in South Africa—and arguably one of the hardest in the world. It spans approximately 2,150 km from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal to Wellington in the Western Cape, covering incredibly diverse and rugged terrain, including mountains, valleys, and remote farmlands. Key Reasons Why It's the Toughest: Navigation Required: Riders must navigate using only maps and compasses—no GPS is allowed. Unmarked Trails: There are no route markers; getting lost is common, and part of the challenge. Extreme Conditions: Weather ranges from freezing mountain passes to scorching valleys. Remote and Isolated: Riders are often far from civilization with limited support. Self-Sufficiency: Cyclists must carry their own gear, repair their own bikes, and find their own way. Time Limits: The race must be completed in 26 days, with time cutoffs at various checkpoints. _____ If so why aren't more people doing this race or just the smaller Freedom circuit ? or Tours ? I would like to hear more from people opinions.

Broken New XTR shifter in 2020, Still waiting for RMA replacement...........