flymango

Fair enough. I guess my stupidity starts because I don't do second hand buying and selling online, so I'm probably clouded by ignorance. I see it as an online version of pawn shops. I do know that pawn shops are pretty good outlets for trading in stolen goods.

I personally don't buy or sell anything secondhand on any website because it creates an easy platform for fraudsters and criminals to operate from. In response to all these bike-jackings, I've always asked and continue to ask "where's the demand coming from?" Unfortunately its from within our cycling fraternity, and The Hub's classifieds must potentially be a very convenient outlet to dispose of stolen goods in a very professional and unsuspecting manner.

Ditto. Nice to meet you and your wife too. What a small world it is. We missed you at the start on Sunday morning. The last day was cold and muddy but loads of fun. I really enjoyed the three days of riding, and must also compliment Dryland for their superb arrangements and attention to detail. They understand the stage race market and have cleverly positioned this event for the first-timers and/or families. To summarise: - a doable and scenic yet testing route, albeit a bit muddy - a great venue, good accommodation and fantastic food - the best water points I've ever encountered in any race (fruit, sweets, koeksisters, potatoes, braai wors, hot chocolate, cleaning of glasses, washing and lubing of chains, ice in water bottles, isotonic drinks, Coke, water, ....) - fantastic vibe and party-atmosphere at prize giving each night - excellent handouts including First Ascent jackets and goodie bags in our rooms after each day (thanks Sanlam!!) Highly recommended in my opinion! :clap:

One word: Pathetic!

My gut tells me this is going to be a gem before, during and after the ride.

Yes. Still waiting for a response. Everybody I phoned was full.

Extra hour's sleep then! Could only get accommodation at Clanwilliam.

Looks like we're in for a combination of mud, wind, a bit of rain, and sunny skies over the three days. Looking forward to it!!

Race starts at 7AM on Sunday. Will be an early rise!

I think you've got a snowball's hope in hell.

18 Sat of Son 19? Dog dis Son 19?

Just say yes. Snow Patrol.

Do you type your posts in Word and then paste? </br>Your posts don't make for easy reading <`/

Hi Ratty. My wife got an excellent ladies-specific Specialized saddle from Cycles Direct. Get Michael to help you select which one after they've measured your sit-bones on the assometer. You're welcome to take her bike for a spin if you want to try out her saddle. Think its an Ariel Comp 155 cm.

i am so not fit or ready for this race. Weather, work and a bit of illness have all interfered with my training plans. But we'll be there, none the less!!!

How was it, then?

Reminds me of something I did which I could've posted on that doofus thread. Once set off for Tokai in my car, and after about 10km realised my bike wasn't on my rack. Heart pounding I turned around to backtrack on my route but to no avail. Got home in a state of panic, only to see bike was still in the garage. I never loaded the bike!

Confession time. Was it a Hubber? How long before said cyclist realised a bike was missing?

Well at least we know the bike wasn't hanging!

I don't understand how Jano Vermaak makes the Springbok squad?? Glad for Kolisi. Interesting to see Pat Cilliers - I've always thought Jannie was overworked at tighthead and we lack an obvious replacement.

Afraid the best team in the campaign deservedly won the title. Apart from obvious fatigue, the Sharks were starved of possession, and when they had it, made too many forced errors or kicked away possession. And from the set pieces (especially line outs) they had too many turnarounds. But they did themselves proud. Maybe a compulsory two-week gap between semi's and final should be considered in the schedule, irrespective of whether two teams from the same country are playing against each other or not. Travel will always be a major factor in a final.

To add to Eldron's post, one man's 6 month credit card budget is another man's hot cash treat. So we tend to justify our purchases. Some posts have been very insightful. Would love to have an honest opinion from a professional whose salary isn't paid for by marketing and sales budgets.

Respect. I'm glad you think 115km and 1400m isn't enough.

Hijack on. And closer to Cape Town and easier logistics!! Looking forward to the challenge. Hijack off.

Unless you're up for camping, accommodation seems to be sold out! Managed to get something at Clanwilliam about 60km away. Just don't feel like packing up tents at 05h00 on Sunday morning to make the 07h00 start. But we're doing it!! Will be my longest distance in one day on a mountain bike. Nervously excited!!