mrcg

"You can't believe only once you have achieved it, you need to believe to be able to do it". Giant hats off and deep bow to the Specialized team of Matt and Tristan. Incredible effort from the youngster, and it finally hit him in that interview with Max. The tears flowing freely, realising he beat such a large bunch of world class riders in the most prestigious multi day stage race. Of course, without Matt, this would not have been possible. We still nostalgically and rightly often mention Burry, but now after all that Matt has achieved, he is definitely on the same step and richly deserves the biggest plaudits and acknowledgement. 4 wins with 4 different partners is an epic achievement, topped by cajoling a real talent to the top step this time around. It cannot be understated what both have achieved and they have made South Africa so very proud. My heart also beams with Candices' success. Finally her resilience and awesome nature have paid off. Huge congratulations to her and Darren, and of course Allesandra (amazing rider!). Clearly remember doing Joberg2c with them 2016 and just knowing that Candice has what it takes. Some things take time, but man it must taste so sweet right now.

Congrats to Marc and Felix! Incredible effort!! And also a major hat doff to Matt and Tristan - amazing effort to limit losses and still in 2nd place GC! "Only" 1m14" behind. Top 10 racing in men's field is super tight and interesting. Pity the women's race is not up to par. Some more thought and strategising required to bring more top riders and teams.

Another option might be for the city to approach Transnet and build a safe cycle lanes through the harbour. That would actually be the best bet. Right along the fence away from the road, traffic etc. Haven't scouted the route, but if memory serves me correctly, then there is a way

Idea/Suggestion: why not petition the city to BUILD a cycle track along the grass verge (next to harbour wall/fence into/out of town? Think that would work out cheaper, easier and less enforcement headaches than policing existing track which is essentially a lost cause. I've used the grass verge many a time without incident or fines (not on the highway), and think it makes the most sense. Anybody willing to start this endeavour? I'm leaving for extended travel, so not around to drive this.

Feedback: on 2 January I cycled this exact route on my mtb. Zero issues. In fact, I didnt see a single homeless person, nor any encampments on this side of the road. Also , no danger from traffic, as travelling on the grass verge, away from the road. I actually took the first bridge and rode along Lower Church toward Biscuit Mill (actual total route was from Sunningdale to Kommetjie - 60km, with rain, mild wind and sunshine). Awesome ride.

There is another option, which I must admit I haven't ridden in yonks. But, if you have a mtb or don't mind a short route on grass/walking path, then try this: ride until the entrance to the harbour (I assume it is still closed for cyclist entry), then hop onto grass verge on the right (into oncoming traffic). You will have the concrete fence of the harbour facility on your right, motorised traffic on your left and very little foot traffic. Only challenging part is the bridge (to Woodstock etc.) which you can walk. Once you get to the Christiaan Barnard Interchange, you can once again hop onto roads and correct side. It's in total a much shorter detour - I would guess about 3km (see attached map and blue line). I've never considered it dangerous and you are highly visible next to N1 and a lot of passing traffic. So think it's fairly safe. It's only against traffic, but as you are on the grass verge/pedestrian path, I reckon it's not an issue. Stand to be corrected by any regular commuters....

If you want to race in Africa, bring/have your big girl panties

Awesome. Bike hub saviour in dark times👍🏻 🙂

Thanks AR. Will definitely investigate properly. Hoping it's ok

Perhaps @droo ; @BaGearA?? Thanks guys

He tried to run.....😅 Pity, would've loved a review. On a lighter note, just had a taxi crash. Dumb ass pulled into bike lane and stopped for guests. Couldn't stop in time. I'm fine, but bike is broken. Well, the fork. Hopefully frame ok. Have started a topic for advice in replacement. Please help

To all experienced mechanics out there, please assist with advice. Had a taxi suddenly pull over and stop in from me in the bike lane. Rear- ended him despite best braking efforts and my fork broke clean through. Bike is a 2018 SWorks mtb, with a Rock Shox fork. Hopefully the top frame is ok. Will have it checked out. Question: is it possible to replace only the crown and steerer, or must I get a whole new fork? It's a carbon fork. Where would I get such, possibly well maintained used? Thanks for any and all advice. Regards. Marc

Can we get a ride/race report @milky4130 ? 😊

It's impossible to make a decent recommendation without knowing your "geometry", how it fits with the bikes listed (although they are fairly similar) and the overall condition of the bikes. That said, as mentioned above, you can ride a single speed 26" to the finish line. This is a very personalised journey only you can have the most answers to. To make a decision on the bikes, take an experienced and knowledgeable rider to view or see if you can have them assessed at a reputable mechanic/store. Good luck with your journey and enjoy the Epic

This looks lekker. Wish I had seen it earlier. Weather looks comfy too, although seems it might rain a bit in morning. Hmmmmm