Farm Gate

Boyes drive is not as bad as some people make out. Start is fairly easy, although the crest of this climb is quite tough, then it's big blade over the next two rollers and down into the long dip. The first part of the climb is quite tough, but a good starting speed will get you past the worst part. The gradient gradually drops, but don't be fooled by the blind rise - it carries on for longer than you think! After that it's big blade all the way. Try to get to the front on the long descent as the s bend is deceptively sharp. I think it was a nuetral zone last year. The turn into Kalk bay is well set up, althogh this was also a neutral zone last year. I reckon its a good place to drop some of the wheel-suckers if there are aqny in your group. You can go hard because it's a while before the next climb. Unless the wind is up again in which case it will be cr*p all the way till Smits!!

If you decide on the Gatorskins then definitely go for foldable. They are a little bit more but they are relatively easy to fit. Remember, they are directional, so make sure they are fitted the right way round!

People needn't be so freaked out by Boyes Drive. The first climb is a just a longish drag and you have a nice downhill before the only other big uphill. The other ascents are all small and are great attack points if you are trying to drop a few leeches! You also have plenty of recovery time before the next climb, so you can push hard. It's better to strain now as the haul to Smits isn't pleasant if you get isolated.

Shot for the advice and the good larf!!

Any suggestions for the best way to clean out the bladder and tube. I've noticed mine (particularly the tube) is looking a bit "gungy", so I'm looking for tips on getting it clean?

That sucks - I hope you have a speedy recovery.

Do you have to let go when you want to in-dick-ate?

I really can't see the sense in riding towards on coming traffic. Your speed differential is much higher (your speed + car's speed instead of car's speed minus your speed) and if you (or the car) lose control you are turning sharply into each other's path (this angle is much less so of you are both going in the same direction). Mountain Lion makes a point about insurance. On a bike you are a legal road user (despite what some driver's may think). As a legal road user I'm pretty sure you need to obey the rules of the road, including travelling in the right direction.

Where does a 50kg Rottweiler sleep? Where-ever the **** he wants to!

Hmm - an unfortunate recent incident has led me to question the wisdom of riding like a kid and like BigBen I did end up in casualty. But wounds heal and I'll be back on that bridge soon! Remember - you have to grow old, but you don't have to grow up!

Vermark bib leggings. Great for the cold winter mornings!

Felt a change of Avatar was due - after all, Zapiro has shelved the shower head for now!

@ Rude: Very funny, smart-ass Farm Gate2009-07-01 04:53:47

Thankully I was - the visor is what slit my forehead open - It buckled on impact. My advice going forward: Wearing a helemt is a no-brainer, but maybe a visor is not such a good idea when going off road! I plan to kit myself out with training wheels, knee pads, elbow pads, a gum guard, a box and a motor bike helmet for my next attempt!

My boss wouldn't give me leave so Knysna is only on the cards for next year. To make things worse, my missus (who is going to Knysna) got all testy when I suggested riding this week-end, even just a light training ride, Anyway Bos, that looks easy - there's no bridge!