MrJacques

Have a look on www.fattracks.co.za I think there are some night rides out on a farm in Kragga Kamma as well. Details may be listed on fat tracks site.

It will be a warranty on the frame usually. And by drilling a hole in it you will void it. E.g. Giant give a lifetime warranty on the frame for the original owner. So if you crack it, they replace it. Terms and conditions apply of course.

If I remove the chain to clean it does 'wear direction' matter? Usually a chain and cassette wear together, so will taking a chain off and putting it back on, possibly not in the same direction it was on previously make a difference?

I have the xcr3. It's my 1st mountain bike so can't compare it much to anything else, but it rides well and I like it. Has taken some abuse and still holding up well. A bit heavy though at just under 14kgs (according to bathroom scale). The Scott weighs 12.7 according to the website and has a nice spec too. See if you can test ride both, but I suspect the Scott will be better for racing. Also check out the classifieds section, there are some good deals there for the price range that you are looking at.

From what I've read here on the forums you shouldn't sandblast it because it would damage the aluminium (if thats what your bike is made of) Not sure if paint stripper is a good idea?

It used to be quite cheap before it got popular. Started at about R22 two years ago and has gone up to about R29 now. But everything else has also become more expensive. If I go for an early morning ride I prefer Future life as it's not too heavy on the stomach and seems to provide good energy levels.

I have one of those Trojan ones from Game (a spinner with a solid flywheel), gathering dust. Still in good condition. I find it very boring compared to going out on road / trail. A cheaper option may also be an indoor trainer that you hook your bike into. (btw, I'm in P.E if you are considering the spinner)

There was a 2010 Anthem X4 for sale at a LBS near me (don't know if it still is) at a discounted price. I'm torn between getting that or Trance X4 / X3. Don't think either would be a bad choice. If the Anthem is sold then the Trance is on the top of my list. Now whether or not to buy the X4 and upgrade or to just go for the X3 straight away.... (11k vs 17k, but the upgrades may work out more expensive in the end)

My choice would be the Anthem X2. See if you can take a bike for a test ride and decide which one suits you best.

Could I please request that article as well? I have actually already bought a XCR3 and it would be interesting to see the review. Thanks!