ZamaK

Anyone been to SBR lately? wanted to find out if they are back to opening at 6am?

Also been using UK location on NordVPN (with 100mbs line). No issues so far. Picture quality is much clearer than SS6.

I 2nd that prediction Team UAE are eager for a win and to climb up the overall team standings. Although I suspect Fernando Gaviria might just smash his bike after the finish line (ala Djokovic smashing his tennis racket), i.e. if he doesn't win today's sprint. Almeida to do a proper leadout!!!

Am not an expert on HR readings, but 1st stage MvdP maxed at 201rpm on the uphill sprint to edge Girmay. On yesterday's stage 10, he maxed at 205rpm. These are incredible numbers!

Hope Biniam is able to start today's stage 11, just to see how the buzz & confidence will show through the Intermarche team and lead-out train. But then again it won't be a total loss, if he sits this stage out to let eye recover some more. https://www.eurosport.com/cycling/giro-d-italia/2022/biniam-girmay-taken-to-hospital-after-popping-champagne-cork-in-his-eye-after-historic-giro-ditalia-_sto8928697/story.shtml

Hi guys, Anyone know the current status of Natnael Tesfatsion after that near horrific crash on stage 9? Heard the commentators say he rejoined the race, but he later abandoned.

The opening times (for the weekend) have reverted back to 7am for Winter Season - This is for the period: 1 April to 31 August. 😁I found this out the hard way when i rocked up at 6am last week Saturday.

@Sitting@89 here you go. SBR_from_Cafe_du_Cirque_in_the_heat_.gpx

I am guessing still no news from HAtoere. I emailed them as well but no response.

So the good news is that the SRB course is still completely rideable, as challenging as it is...it is excellent training to improve climbing and fight your inner cycling demons. The road surface is still in great condition and not having to worry about traffic from behind is absolute bliss! All in all it's still a great cycling experience. Here are some other things I noticed and agreed to most of the feedback already mentioned in the comments above: The place does get more packed on Saturdays, mostly hikers, so best to arrive early (they really do open at 6am) or budget about 15-30minutes for the queue at the gate (entry traffic and the COVID screening). They no longer accept cash. Payment is strictly CARD only. ????But where have all the animals gone? didn't even see or hear any monkeys or zebras on the entire full loop. There is evidence that they are still around though because of all the hard poop on the road. But guess they hide away during the day coz of all the noise from more hikers on the trails. Unfortunately, the maintenance is still in shambles . . . Working toilets are at the Reception building (pretty clean I must say). The toilets at Kareenkloof gate entrance also still work, which was a bit of a relief. Water is still an issue because their pumps don't work. So make sure to carry enough water (and extra water for afterwards). Bringing your own toilet paper is also a good idea. Unfortunately the Holhoek picnic spot is closed (about 2 years now if not longer). The Kareenkloof pool area is also still cordoned off (must be close to 15yrs now if not longer). Their museum looks to be still working . . . saw a guard manning the entrance. The chalets are apparently no longer being operated, not sure for how long . . .must be because of the water issue (and probably lack of maintenance). For braaing, the best place is the picnic and kids play area, next to the main parking area.

@Dexter-morgan Thanks for the feedback, very helpful indeed!!! I tried calling their number, but no answer (i was really holding my breath). Guess will see when we get there. Will post an updated here.

Thanks @Frosty. Will try calling them tomorrow as well.

Planning a visit to SBR for a full loop ride with some friends. Last time I was there (pre-covid), the place was starting to really fall apart, due to lack of maintenance. The pubic toilets were closed. There were issues with the water supply/ pressure in some areas. The picnic area (@ no.7) was also closed. ANYONE BEEN THERE LATELY? PLEASE SHARE WHAT TO BE ON THE LOOK OUT FOR for cycling purposes.

That would mean your fitness has improved drastically! If performance hasn’t changed, but max HR has gone down. Seems more like a fitness fixer than a serious sickness. What was wrong if u don’t mind me asking.

I am there... Driving Sunday early morning. Should be a fast race if you are in a medium to Large bunch. You definitely don't want to be alone in 2nd half of the race. Last year i started fading after the 70km mark and got dropped by 2 groups and had to work hard for the next 10km. Looking for a more consistent overall ride this time around....Can't wait to hear "Give me chocolate"