Fred van Vlaanderen

I make my own “adventure” bars for anything over two hours. Oats, dates, Cacao, cashews, sunflower seeds, coconut oil. Home made, can adjust flavour, salt, etc to suit you pallet. And I’m also a fan of tailwind, but I do use much less than the recommended scoops (Probably half). Lastly, Gu gels. But it needs to be said that I’ve admittedly not had any real issues other than the odd bonk here or there over multiple ultras, etc. I’ve probably not gone fast enough for those issues to occur. Lol. I’ve always seen ultras as more of a eating contest rather than a race. I like eating!!

Closure in a certain sense on this one: https://maroelamedia.co.za/nuus/sa-nuus/video-pleitooreenkoms-na-jong-man-fietsryer-doodry/

I run cushcore on a trail bike and it works brilliantly. The benefit vs weight penalty on a trail bike is an absolute no brainer for me. I think it depends on whether you mind the extra weight, and if you don't, it would make absolute sense to do inserts. You can run tyres at lower pressure, which results in more grip, with the lower risk of puncture... what is not to like about that. I never ever ever ever thought that I would run inserts... but having used it for a year now, I can't imagine riding without it.

The Hyrax and the Slakline is the exact same frame. That's how I've always understood it. The only difference is the stroke on the suspension, which then changes wheelbase, angles and BB height as a direct result.

+1

I also have a Hyrax, but I haven’t been there. My gut feel is that it should be sufficient based on what I’ve seen on the internet. One or two jumps may be a little hairy, but you should be fine for + 95%

1. I’ve had both. Difference has been minimal. Horizontal is commonly used in XC bikes, because it is easier to engineer a super light horizontal suspension. But having said that - there are amazing bikes using both of these systems. This shouldn’t be a ome of your concerns. 2. Really depends on what you are looking for. Budget vs weight being the biggest two differentials. Alu and carbon has its place. Equally important to check both frames for cracks. Make sure your suspension is properly set-up and in perfect working condition before contemplating the move. A proper Specialized carbon marathon and XC bike will definitely be better that your 2018 spark, but it will come at a cost… so ask yourself if what you are looking for in a new bike is worth the delta.

Sweet build.

Picked up a pair of winter gloves at Wolwespruit MTB Park. On the Rock 'n Rolla trail. Contact me if you can identify them.

@NotSoBigBen, I’ll just leave this here:

Job well done!

In short, downcountry bikes are lightweight XC-style frames with added travel, trail-friendly geometry and wider, knobbly tyres.

Yeah, and I can attest that it is one amazing bike.