Which route/loop to ride, depending on wind direction: Western Cape

[JohanC]

Hi Hubbers

 

Not sure if this have been discussed before.

 

I would appreciate if you can share some knowledge and experience of which routes/loops do you ride, depending on the wind direction that day.

 

In the last week on two separate occasions I have been blown MOERTOE! (Blaauwberg through to 12 Appostels – think South Easter, and Sunday from Rooiels to Betty’s). 

 

I stay in the Northern Suburbs, Brackenfell’s side.

 

So for example: If I want to ride the 4 passes loop. Or Du Toitskloof – Bainskloof loop etc. What is the best direction to ride depending on the wind?

 

Please share your routes you ride depending on the wind and distance.

 

[bikebloke]

its cape town the wind never stops ( almost never anyway)

at least it only hammers you on half the trip (till you turn around) 

try make it behind you in the second half (the trip home)

[Dicky DQ]

its cape town the wind never stops ( almost never anyway)

at least it only hammers you on half the trip (till you turn around) 

try make it behind you in the second half (the trip home)

What he said, However with South Easter from Durbanville good options are:

1. Franschoek via Botlary and Helshoogte then back.

2. Bains Kloof any way you want, bains is sheltered and it is a bit of a gutter back but not so bad.

3. 4 Passes via Franschoek (If you can get up the pass) from there it is okish.

4. Chappies via Pinelands and Constantia Nek then back via waterfront, Milnerton and Tiekie Draai, quite protected.

 

Or Go MTB, wind is no issue there.

[Matchstix]

Where do you ride on the mtb where the wind is no issue?

 

[DJR]

Sorry to disappoint ye'all......but I have tried every single combination of routes in Cape Town, on the mtb and the road.......and I can categorically tell you that if the REAL southeaster is blowing, then there is NOWHERE to hide.

 

Perhaps the IDT is the only option, but close the window or it'll still blow you over. My best advice is to ride REALLY early in the morning. It is best from 5 to 8 am, then it starts picking up. You want to be done and home by 9 am at the latest. Leave the deep sections wheels at home. Don't even THINK of riding in the afternoon because it will be at its strongest from 3to 6 pm.

 

Riding in the wind is a skill you learn through experience. Don't over react and stay loose on the bike when the gusts push and pull you left and right. Treat a strong headwind just like a long steep climb, gear down, make yourself small, and get into a rhythm. Work together as a group, but only with people you know and can trust to ride predictably.

[Matchstix]

My problem is not so much the force/effect of the wind. The constant wailing war cry of the force of the invisable soldier that can't b fought o beat. This turns my inner weakling spirit to rise and turns my gentle demeanor into a raging monster, with the desire to rip the head off this invisible tormentor.

[Freex]

On windy days, my rule of thumb is start with the wind on your back and return into wind.

 

When the strong SE blows MTB riding around deer park is really pleasant. Riding towards Lions Head has generally less wind. In S to SW winds Devils Peak is sheltered.

[Eddy Gordo]

Jonkershoek is/was fairly protected