RossW

Thanks for the valuable info. Schapenburg was high on the list, so you've potentially saved me there. Will think where else to ride on Saturday. I hear you about the late notice. Will see what comes of it.

The plan is to ride Tokai on Friday because as you say, dropping off the runner puts me pretty close to Tokai. Looking at starting at 7:30. Shout if anyone is keen to join. Will try out Somerset West and Stellies on Saturday.

Right, sorry for the take-over but I can't find much info using the search - never been a great Googler. I'm heading down CT way for the Two Oceans. Won't be running but significant other will be. While she is running, I want to explore the CT trails that I have heard so much about. Any advice? I'll be staying in Somerset West but able and willing to travel. I've heard Jonkershoek is great but you need to ride with a local to find the good stuff. Someone mentioned Schapenberg to me as well as Lourensford. What about Tokai? Any links and suggestions and starting points would be greatly appreciated.

Good set of lungs in that first pic! Great camera work!

Seeing them now

Not seeing any of the pictures.

Reads like Julius's report card. Edited: bold

That reads like a veiled threat to me. As stated numerous times since your incorrect post, read, read and read some more.

Rouxtjie, I killed my XT BB in the Sabie mud. I also had some hiccups with the GXP - rode in PMB for 3 years on one GXP. Move to JHB and go through 3 in 18 months. I saved some cash and went for SLX BB yesterday. Weighs maybe 10g more but only cost me R210.

Only 8 were sold to the public? Why was production stopped?

I was led to believe at the African Cycle Fair that a carbon 29er was in the pipeline - like the Zero650. To be released this year as well. I'll be waiting.

livetime.co.za

I'm with you on the complete strip, clean and lube/grease thing. Looking at replacing chain and cables. Wheel bearings are finished and the fork needs a service. Might have a seized headset as well. Oh, and don't forget the BB. As for the clothing - 3 washes with Vanish and one with Omo liquid has done little to bring back the original colours of my riding kit.

At least I still had the energy to smile.

Really tough riding conditions. Was aiming for a very good time but ended with 5h34.

Just past Alzu and it's finally a drier road surface. Plenty bikes on route.

YR shows the rain worst today, starting to slowly clear tomorrow. Fingers crossed.

Joh, I'm bummed about the weather forecast. Was hoping for a nice, fast ride with good times in the ST.

Nervous is the word. I hear the word "Sabie" and my HR goes for a six, let alone me think of the day.

Seeded in B for marathon and A for half-marathon. Big aim of a sub-4 hour marathon. As for downhill from halfway - if only! You are so shattered from Mamba and the continual climbing to the little cottages that you end up checking your tyres all the time because it feels like you have a permanent flat. I didn't mind the heat too much last year. I'm more weary of it being wet. Especially considering there is a tropical storm between Mozambique and Madagascar at the moment.

Exactly my plan at Sabie

Tell me about this XCO loop ... Where does it start, where do you park etc.

I've got a decent drop on my Superlight as well. Racey geo that fits me to a tee.

The marathon is definitely not the same as last year .... Looks like some extra climbing has been thrown in before Mamba! Heart is doing flips.

Would you be able to post a pic of the T-shirt? My girlfriend's T-shirt from last year is of shocking quality as well. The screenprinting or whatever it may be started peeled after the first wash.