cji

Thanks MorneS555 this is a massive help! Going to import some Sram groupset and will save 50% on what they are charging over here!

Hi Matts Thanks for the response. Great to hear that you want to come through. The R40 stays the same i am afraid but you can join up for a whole year for R400 which would make more sense if you are going to come often. 1st trail is 25kms and the profile can be viewed on the website. More routes coming shortly. Enjoy!

Tulbagh MTB Club has justed released a route within our valley. Please note that more will becoming on line as I am sure you have all heard that the Epic is back in our valley again this year! For more info go to http://www.tulbaghmtbclub.co.za

Event Name: Rijk Tulbagh MTB Race & Funride When: 30 June 2012 Where: Tulbagh, Western Cape Category: MTB NEW EVENT in Tulbagh! Traverse the scenic Tulbagh valley from its town centre across the slopes of its Western Obiqua Mountains, Northern Winterhoek mountains, eastern and southern Witzenberg mountains; on farmroads through orchards, forests, nature and game reserves, across mountain tracks and single tracks. Some of the routes will go over parts of the ABSA Cape Epic and MTN National MTB routes but on this race, the routes will traverse all of Tulbagh’s surrounding mountains in a clockwise direction. The 70 km will test the fit and technically experienced rider with over 1700 m in climbs on a variety of farm roads, 4 x 4 (jeep) track & single-track with spectacular views. The route is designed to provide variety and cover as much of the valley as possible by avoiding too much of a zig-zag route across similar terrain. The 40 km is by no means a cakewalk! Following the same farm, mountain and single track routes as the 75 km but cutting out some of the heaviest climbs and detours but with over 700 m in climbs it still offers a varitable challenge from a perspective of endurance, strength and technical skills for the average rider. The 20 km ride is untimed and one that focusses on those who like to ride but don’t have as much time to build up their stamina and strength. Aimed at the novice and young riders it will still provide a safe but good challenge. Please note that riders under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. DISTANCES 70 km; 40 km; 20 km 
STARTING TIMES 75 km @ 08h30; 40 km @ 09h00; 20 km @ 09h30 
VENUE Disapark, Tulbagh 
ENQUIRIES John Brokaar 
PHONE 083 952 5448 
EMAIL info@rtps.co.za or john@welbedachtreserve.co.za 
PRIZE GIVING/CUT-OFF 15h00 
PRE-ENTRIES CLOSE 28 June 2012 
ONLINE ENTRIES www.pedalpower.org.za Go to Event Page

Thanks TimM but I am keeping in for the next inline! Cheers CJI

Thanks guys for the replies so far. I'm also concerned re timing of swapping her 24inch to a small 26inch but think she will be there in the next month or so. Andrew T i am with you on the hardtail for learning the skills and being lighter but also hear DJR re single track. We also are in Tokia often and she has started recently with the fairy garden etc so i am pulling my hair out here trying to decide!! Will certainly be scanning the classifieds for small frame though! I myself have a marathon bike and setup so may choose HT for starts! Thanks for the posts. Keep the advice coming!! CJI

Hi My 11 yr old daughter is seriously into MTB. She has done numerous 15 & 20km races and at present she has 24inch specialized hotrock. I need some advice on which way to go for her. She is the one that is very keen as i am not a pushy parent!) Now the question is i obviously need to go to a 26inch frame and i take it that her best would be a small frame but it is the age old question dual or single suspension? Advice will be greatly received and if anyone has any bike ideas then please let me know. Cheers CJI

Hey Rebecca Whilst at the sports science have your bike configuration sorted out. They input all your measurements into their system and out pops the best bike config! Also get some advice on your bar ends as these can cause added strain through your lower cervical / thoracic area of your spine. Try this stretch for Scalenes as they have a roll in thoracic outlet syndrome! Lie on the floor with your left arm behind your back. With your head in the neutral looking ahead position, place your right arm so that your hand rests over the top of your head. Gently pull your head to the right until you feel the stretch. Relax your right hand and rotate your head a few degrees to the left, and then pull your head gently sideways to the right using your right hand, until you feel the stretch. Breathe out as you stretch. Relax your right hand and rotate your head to the right. Once again use your right hand to gently pull your head sideways until you feel the stretch. Breathe out as you stretch. Try doing 1 - 4 for the other side of your neck. Hope this helps a bit and good luck!!