calabash

Had to drive between Hammanskraal and Safari Mall yesterday to card cyclist doing safaris. I was?shocked?at?how many?of?the tail-end riders were drifting?into?the middle?of?the?road!

Just watched the start of the Carousel Classic. I was so impressed by the organisation of the race. They really know what they are doing there.

There is a great ride from Camden through Little Venis to the London Zoo.

Beautiful!

I agree with Potent 100%! The Ravx are the bomb. Love the grips and they can really take a beating.

I have found that long flights can throw out my suspension. Not sure why this happens but I now deflate all air from my shocks and then pump them up on arrival.

That is a hell of a good looking bicyle!!! Better lock it up well.

I am still living in Hammanskraal. Raced Hansoms as a kid. There are a few of the old Hansom factory workers kicking about. Don't know if that helps?

Thanks guys! Fantastic input. My bike is well maintained but ridden pretty hard. Taken all advice and got my pack packed. Going to do the 35km race and see how it goes. Gonna use the extra tube to drap the bar fridge.

beside the obvious checks, how do I ensure that my bike is race-ready? any must carry tools for a long mtb ride? advise will be greatly appreciated

I find that a soft brush is the business for washing bikes. I only use wax on my chains because it is so sandy here.

they don't usually do bikes but are happy to do it! here is their url: http://tshwaneplating.com/

what did you pay for that frame?

Thanks for the awesome feedback. Have found a place in Pretoria that will a nodize the bike. These seems to be a better idea than the powder coating.

anybody got pics of a bike that has been powder coated?

Bada bling!!! Bloody good idea

Thinking black... It is a VERY long frame!

Bought a sweet hardtail frame and have just stripped it down to the aluminium. Weights a sweet 1.6km. Thinking about powder coating it. ?Any suggestions?