nonky

Two decathlon bikes got mentioned in Bicycling mag's "2024 BIKE BUYER'S GUIDE" - yet, neither has been available in all (or even popular) sizes. Go figure.

That's a SWEET bikepacking rig. I like very much.

See also: Titan Switch 2023 (<ZAR20K); or 2024 (ZAR24K), if budget permits Both have carbon fork; 2024 has SRAM Rival drivetrain

Formerly known as a "monster bike" or "monstercross bike"?

I have flown my MTB - internationally and locally - with cardboard boxes, kindly donated by my LBS (the spez s-works MTB boxes are the best, if you can get one). With careful packing, nothing got damaged and the boxes can be used again or recycled.

Another vote for the Roscoe - that is one helluva buy if your budget can make it (and perfect for Tokai trails). Don't forget to budget R1k-R2k for pedals. Merida 2022 in second place.

The GX cassette and XO1 chain option last forever and ever - it even survived the muddy mess that was the last Joberg2C, which I could not believe.

Nope, you are not an idiot, just new to the sport. Cycling is super expensive, especially mountain biking (things break). The first answer to your post was correct. Ride the bike and have it repaired under warranty for as long as possible. Once you've exhausted the bike, warranty and/or your patience, make a decision about the sport. If the bug has bitten, buy a Titan (best value for money new) or a good second hand bike (ask on here for free advice) Wishing you many happy miles.

Nice pics! What is the condition of the trail like these days? Where did you enter and exit? THx

Thanks for the link - that one was opposed by the District Six residents / associations (IIRC) - it appears that NO ONE wants a shelter on their doorstep, not just the privileged few living on the Atlantic Seaboard. It should be recognized that this is not just simple eviction and nothing else - last night, social workers / CoCT representatives were interviewing the homeless sleeping on the Promenade (which is also a huge problem). Not sure why, just interesting to see the ongoing initiatives.

Any facts to back that up? As far as I am aware, the new 300-bed homeless shelter has been approved and the Haven Shelter increased in size. This was a Court-approved eviction, so due process was followed. The people in question do not want to be housed in a shelter or rehoused. Source: https://www.capetownetc.com/news/citys-300-bed-safe-space-homeless-shelter-gets-green-light/

Dude, it is ALWAYS Argue Season on the Hub.

Robbie, you are applying High Trust Society morals to a Low Trust Society. Our society is, unfortunately, a million miles away from High Trust; and you need to act accordingly.

Under the Oxford definition of FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS, it says: MERCEDES BENZ HITS CANNONDALE Jokes aside, sorry about your bike, PS, and happy hunting for a new one

You are 100% correct, Chrisjan. Stealing AND the receipt of stolen goods USED to be crimes that were prosecuted in SA. Sadly, this is no longer the case.