Kerchak

Visted my parents this weekend and did a easy ride between Welkom and OD. Used to ride my bike from OD to Welkom to go and watch a movie (without my parents approval). My bike gave me so much freedom to explore and to escape from all the stuff that bothers a young teenager. 30 years later I still use my bike to explore and to escape from the stresses in the world. Amen to such a privilege. Ps. Dit is flippen plat in die Vrystaat.

Went past Botlierskop this morning and saw some elephants. Thereafter Big Dipper and back to Hartenbos. Apparently there were some flood damage and some of the crossing entailed ankle high water. Excellent views

Thanks, will have a look

Well done to the organisers - great route. Does anybody know where the photos will be posted

Some more pics from today's ride. Bridge over Kraairivier

Naude' Nek is next on my to do list. My wife's brother has a farm close to Elliot and I try do some MTB everytime we visit. Did the R393 today from Barkley Pass to Barkley East. The best was Lapa Munik pass to Ugie which we did last year.

How was Roodeplaat organised? Thinking about doing Buffelspoort.

Did anybody saw the naked ride this morning. I had to wash my eyes with soap. Way to many dudes. In any case "May the force (wind) be with (behind) us tomorrow"

Some lesson I have learned Lesson 1: Don't underestimate the full. The step-up from lite to full is a big one Lesson 2: Trail running is not the same as running on tar. Also, Camelbak defintely next time Lesson 3: No matter what, enjoy it. I realy appreciated the chatting with the other runners If all goes well, I will see you the Sasol events

Tough as hell. Mountain goat territory. Spend way to much energy on the rocky MTB climbs. Nearly died during the run. More watering points needed during the run. The 3rd one was without water by the time I arrived there. Thanks to the lady that gave me a sip of her water. You were a lifesaver. Well organised. Nice vibe. Will have to train much more next time. MTBc, did you survive the run.

Got my trisuit from fluidlines this week. Delivered within 2days. They also advised me on which one to get. Great service. Doing my 1st full Xterra. Done some Lites in the past. The swim was useally my biggest fear, but I have learned that it is the run that kills you. Hou bene hou. See you all next weekend. Lets hope it is much cooler

Elliot "international" airport. Just a 2 km tarmac.

Some old and some recent pics. This one is from June this year in the Eastern Cape, Lapa Munik Pass (Bastervoet pas) between Barkley and Ugie. Going back there this weekend. Can't wait. Two weeks ago at Union Building. Last weekend on Olifantshoekpas close to Little Switzerland. The R74 between Harrismith and Bergville is nerve wrecking. What a privilege to be able to do these rides

Yip, AM bunch. Some agro guys in the bunch. If you want to wheelsuck, you need to be alert. On a lighther note. Why did the bunch not wait for me on Vrekpoort. I was screaming, crying and at some stage praying, but nobody wanted to wait for me. I was alone at the turn back to the finish. Was is not for the young lady and her encouraging words, I probably would have still been battling with the wind.

The Good: Pothole Markings Motorbike marshals The Bad: Vrekpoort The wind The Ugly: Cyclists crossing white line with oncoming traffic Cyclists swearing. You can reprimand a person for not holding his line without swearing at him. Organisers. Well done. Great route. Not that much traffic. Just get the finish sorted.

Was the weekend in Welkom. Saw a sign "Stonepark MTB trails". It was at the entrance to Riebeeckstad just after the hospital turn off. Tried to google it, but could not find it. Would appreciate it if you can give some feedback if you find it.

I am one of those slower riders. If you give me beer from your cooler box I will let you pass. Also saw some nasty thorns especially if you go of the track. So be carefull when you pass me.

I already have mid range 26er, which is very nice. But, I have need for a 2nd bike. One to keep permanently at my office. I either cycle at work or at home and all this bike on a rack behind the car is a lot of work (my justification to buy a new bike). I have had sleepless nights between 26 DS, 29 HT, new, used etc. etc. So, looking for 29er, mid range which will keep this weekend warrior happy.

Thanks, will have a look at ballistic's website. Did also went to Solomons. Some great specials there.

Most LBS have shown me Titans, Merida, Trek, Momsen and Silverbacks. Have not seen any Ghost. Will have a look at it this weekend.

Hi I have been looking at bikes for several weeks and have narrowed it down to 3 bikes. Momsen 329 (new) Silverback Vida 1 (used) Corratec Superbow Fun (New) All 3 have similar components. SRAM 5x/7x or Shimano Deore/SLX. I did not look at the wheels or shocks. Prices are between R8k and R10k. I have seen good reviews for the Silverback, but could not find any for the Corratec. Which one would you buy?