Rob K

Thanks for the replies folks - I have received a reply from Lake so will report back.

Greetings All, I am looking for a wider than normal road cycling shoe and read that Lakes and Bont are recommended. Can anyone advise stockists of either in Johannesburg and specifically the Fourways area? Thanks you in advance, Rob

Hi Paul, I went through this exact situation about a year ago and am also caught up in the Hollard takeover now. As regards Discovery, my research told me that claims experience was hot and cold. All the 5 star reviews were in favour of the sales teams, which Discovery do, do well, however claims experience was less raved about. I decided against moving to Discovery and my broker is now moving me to her recommended underwriter. Certainly a good broker does earn their keep in my opinion. Keep us posted and I would be keen to hear others experience - good or bad. Good luck and hope you stay claim free. Rob

Just had my first ride on my new Hammer after waiting nearly a year for it and these are my initial impressions. Set-up was quick and easy because I am replacing my PowerSync, so it just slotted into place nicely and you just need to re-pair with the head unit, an iPad in my case. You also have to procure your own suitable cassette. I jumped on and went straight into a CVT workout and found the Hammer to be very smooth - too smooth actually as it is unrealistic - perhaps like what an indoor velodrome would feel like though even smoother - machine smooth actually. There was some vibration transferring through the bicycle frame though this may be set-up related - I have not done any trouble shooting as yet. Is it quiet? - no not really, it produces a high pitched machine like whine - almost sounds like one of those Japanese high speed MagLev trains. I had to crank up the music to drown it out - much worse at high cadence and will be a problem if you are trying to sneak an early morning workout without disturbing anyone. On the positive side - it is very stable under my 95kg frame and feels solid and sturdy. Overall I'm not convinced the wait was worth it but I will need to spend more time on it before making any final decisions.

Plane^driver - how easy is it to fit the cassette - do you need the special tool?

But PLEASE PLEASE don't take the racing line!!!!!!!

Kom, I disagree with you. In the online game, your reputation is everything. You know what they say about how long it takes to build a reputation and how long it takes to destroy one?

Based on CWC's popularity, I broke down and against my better judgement, made some online purchases. Was very dissapointed with the outcome and won't be a future customer. Would much rather get in my car and drive to my LBS.

"You say that like all CWC staff are knowledgeable...4/5 visits prove that theory wrong." This statement I have to agree with. I am no longer a CWC client for this reason.

Hi Guys, I had a long chat with the GM at a recent Porsche customer day and he basically said "Don't get your hopes up" He was kind enough to explain why and it goes to the fact that the entire circuit, all the property, is at the disposal of the renter for the day - and they are fully booked for the rest of the year too. So looks unlikely I'm afraid.

Do we lose the points scored by the dropped riders?

Is it possible to see our teams - I didn't note my selections (also made some last minute changes )

Thanks so much G for the quick response. Would you mind giving me a list of what I need to run the complete package over and above the Kickr iteself ie Videos, ant+ or other devices that are not included to produce all the metrics required and I assume an internet connection - is streaming required viz the connection speed? Thanks again, Rob

Thanks very much for the answers regarding the neccessity of a power meter. I understand I don't need one and the Kickr has it's own. With your experience, some more questions if you don't mind. Let me first add that I have a dedicated trainer that will stay on the kickr permanently. So 1) Does the kickr allow VR software which controls the resistance electonically. 2) It seems from my research that TrainerRoad is the standout software to go for, does this package control the resistance? and 3) Does TR have videos - it seems most run Sufferfest or Zwift alongside TR and I don't quite understand how this works? Thanks again and in advance. Rob

I have the Kickr on my short list but am now confused by the need for a powermeter? Is this necessary for the Kickr? Rob

Also started in CL. Very hairy staying with the group in such a fast paced race. Concentration levels are severely tested and you really need to keep your eyes wide open. Was very lucky to avoid the two falls in our group and never thought I'd see a sub-2:30 and finish a race with a 40kph average. Strongs to all the fallers and a big thank you to Gerald and well done to ASG - after all the bad press they do need some recognition for this one.

Fantastic update - Thanks Hayleyearth. Did you perhaps get a route profile you could share?

Am I reading correctly that we have to collect numbers at the venue before raceday?? Long trip - what do the out of towner's do?

This is actually brilliant - my daughter posted it on FaceBook and it seems that Discovery are not vey happy about it.

I had to fix this....

Amen +1000

Hi Guys, Really enjoyed all the info - completely stuffed up my afternoon - but I am far more enlightened about indoor trainers. Rouxtjie - great advice and insights and links - thanks. I've been on an old Tacx Flow for the last two years and am now ready for an upgrade with the added benefit of finally having my own mancave to do it in. Is the Tacx Neo (you can see my bias) available locally? Regards, Rob

I saw a clip somewhere about a Starbucks or the like, having a system where customers donated coffees etc to less fortunate types - kind of paying it forward. What about us doing the same with all these unclaimed smoothies and coffees?

Apologies - not sure where to go to resolve this. Here's the link:_www.bikehub.co.za/forum/classifieds/172706-specialized-2014-roubaix-sl4/