Squier

I saw on twitter yesterday that FitTrack developed a late starter training programme for people who is only getting into it now. I've never seen or used a FitTrack training programme (currently on the Science2Sport one) so can't vouch for them but perhaps worth a shot. It's not about training hard and long now but training smart and maximising the benefit you're get out of every ride. It would be best to get expert advice on exactly how to do that. All is not lost. You can still do quite a bit of work in a month.

Congrats Lizzy! That is still a really cool photo. Not quite a chameleon, but cool. Enjoy that GoPro!

They say plastic bags over your socks works like a charm. Have to confess that I haven't tried it though.

Doing my third Trail. Should be a blast! Was a little heavy for my first one, but finished comfortably. Was 5kgs lighter last year but went in still a little sick. Nearly died. Don't know how I managed to finish but I did. Not nearly as enjoyable as the first one. This year my focus is on staying healthy. The best advice I can give; Rather be 100% healthy than 100% fit. If you're sick, rest and get better. If you're not as fit as you wanted to be you'll just be a bit slower, but if you're sick you are screwed. Riding with a new partner who is also doing his first. Should be fun! Highlight of the year!

Wow, those Giants look awesome. Where is the best place to go for one? (or if anyone wants to get rid of an old one that doesn't fit anymore, drop me a PM ) I have the Wee-ride and my little guy loves it! He won't fit for much longer though, but luckily little bro is now 6 weeks old, so it'll still be used. That's why I need the upgrade...

Thanks!

True, cracked my frame a while back and had a warranty replacement in no time.

I'm also playing with the GoPro idea. I like to run it on my helmet, but that's not allowed anymore. Although, Sani2c is usually not too strict on these "negligible" type of things. Will probably have a bar mount as well and switch between the two if possible. There are charging stations where you can charge your GoPro (at your own risk - although it's been pretty safe in the past) but I'd suggest taking another SD card. Unless you want to lugg a laptop around... And be prepared for all kinds of weather. I've done Sani where Day 1 was bitterly cold and Day 2 sweltering towards the afternoon. And don't forget your sleeping bag!

C'mon people! It's a chameleon and a Niner! You can see Karl and Urs together every day of the week! I only need 50 odd votes. It's almost a sure thing!

My road bike is also too big for me. Just fitted a shorter stem and it works. My lbs (cycle-fix) charges R350 for a setup.

Absolutely! And it's a stepping stone to other Grand Tours. Bigger exposure, more sponsors, more $$$ to develop our talent. Africa has arrived!

It's difficult to compare without seeing the specs of the bike... and I'm way to lazy to google it now. That being said, my very first bike was a GT Avalanche and I rode it into the ground (and I was fat then!) and it held up well, right up until the end when it didn't. I then upgraded to a Silverback which was (and still is) also a great bike, The value I got from the Silverback was just more than any other bike manufacturer. You have to compare the specs and see where you get the best bang for your buck.

I just wouldn't sell it. It's still awesome to have. I have a signed Nino Schurter Scott-Odlo jersey. I doubt whether Nino's name will have the longevity that Lance's has, but still. It's a really cool thing to have

There's nothing wrong with a dop every now and then!

You'll probably finish, but it will be anything but enjoyable. 7 hours on saddle is a very long time, especially if you're not used to it. I agree with the guys saying to start on shorter distance. Make it fun for yourself.

Been riding Maxxis for years. Had Geax and Scwalbe tyres before and they don't compare to Maxxis IMO. Granted, they're heavy but I haven't had a single puncture (touch wood!). And I've also used Stans and never had a problem.

I have some old sufferfest vids and enjoy them. I would go for one of the newer vids if I were to buy one now. On-screen you are given a cadence indication (e.g. 120rpm) and exertion indication (e.g. 8/10). If you do these right, they hurt like hell but make you strong. I just haven't gone through the trouble of aligning these to my structured training programme, but I'm sure you can do it.

Isn't that something we've been saying every year? I just get this strange feeling of deja vu...

I agree. Day 1 and 3 are still awesome in their own right and also easily underestimated. Not as tough as Day 2, but they still deserve some respect. That being said; the Race had a raw deal last year with the rain on Day 2. If the weather holds up this year, you'll be blown away. My Day 2s are still my best days on a bike ever.

Would love to see some stats of who struggled with puncture issues with what tyres.

Sad to hear about Cherise. Was really hoping for a big result for her. She'll bounce back though. First time I've heard of a pro cyclist who actually has asthma, yet everyone is on asthma meds.

Just saw that every category has lost some teams that has withdrawn due to whatever reason, except for the women. All 21 teams that started are still racing! Impressive stuff! It looks as if it has been super tough.

Only saw the CenturionVaude frame where the chainstay seemed to split into two.

Kudos to all finishers. Enduring that for 100kms must be brutal. Spare a thought for the mechanics. They must've pulled an all-nighter. That being said, spare a thought for the riders who don't have a mechanic who still had to fix their bikes after spending up to 9 hours in the saddle.

Well done!! Let's hope the weather treats you better for the rest of the week.