new girl coming to town

[Snork]

Not really a rant but I though most people would look at this !!

 

I've just been offered a job in South Africa for MTN and am really looking forwarding to the big move. I'm a keen cyclist and have ridden through most of Europe but I'm not sure what to expect out there. You guys seem to have loads of fun !!! What are supplies like out there. I ride an R3 cervelo with ice SL ultegra group ?

 

There seems to be lots of good rides and races but I can't find many shops selling bits to know whether to load up before I come !!!

 

Any help or info you can give me would be great !!!

 

happy Cycling !!!

 

Snork2008-11-12 15:56:27

[TheLegend]

you generally get all parts rewuired for your bike in the country. there's plety of shops, some belong to a price fixing mafia. prices are higher than compared to europe, especially when compared to internet shops. many ppl order stuff abroad and get it mailed and it still comes out cheaper. there's one shop in Ape Town trying to get a big mail order thing going. apparently they don't belong to the price-fixers and the price fixers try to push them out of business.

some local agents for imports do a crappy customer service. but you get than in any country, nothing country specific.

 

[TheLegend]

oh ja, perhaps state where you'll be located (I presume Jo'burg) so people can point things out more specificly. And since you are a girl some guys might go crazy and offer you all kinds of assistance. don't worry, they are all harmless though. 

[knersis]

Hi Snork, compare your prices against www.cwcycles.co.za and www.solomons.co.za 

 

PS. Where will you be situated in South Africa?

 

[Snork]

Thanks for the quick replies and the helpful info. I'ts Jo burg I'll be situated in/ I use probikekit.com in the Uk and have also had good service off them. They ship to South Africa now so I may try them over there if the price is reasonable. Ive seen other people on thsi and other blogs talking about CRC ( chain reaction I presume) used them a few times in the Uk and delivery was slow and items were missing on 2 out of 3 orders !

 

 

[Sammajoor]

You will also notice that some of us here have certain fetishes.............

 

Some are gay, others LOVE nipples.  some are just plain arrogant others on the other hand are just plain naggers.

 

Others stir to see if they can illicit a response

 

And some really make it a pleasure to belong to the Hub.

 

And after all of that we are like one BIG HAPPY FAMILY

 

FEEL THE LOVE

 

WELCOME

 

[turtlek]

welcome snork i am sure whatever happens you will feel welcome and if ever you need a training partner i am sure most of us will jump at the opportunity!!!!

[Tumbleweed]

You will also notice that some of us here have certain fetishes.............

Some are gay' date=' others LOVE nipples.  some are just plain arrogant others on the other hand are just plain naggers.

Others stir to see if they can illicit a response

And some really make it a pleasure to belong to the Hub.

And after all of that we are like one BIG HAPPY FAMILY

FEEL THE LOVE

WELCOME
[/quote']

 

i'm gay and i love nipples, not arrogant (although i do have the nicest avatar on this forum) and never nag.

welcome to the hub, snork, and the sa! hope you enjoy your stay.

[The Crazy German]

For a European something important to consider is safety can you live with it. Not sure which city or town you live in.

 

Most europeans are use to be able to go and cycle on their own, whenever keen , is it dark no problem set of lights and of into the bush on your MTB. South Africa in most locations sadly doesn't work like that.

 

Just something to think of are you willing to give up these privileges with as a tradeof good climate and stunning vieuws?

 

I am Northern Europe based and raised lived in western cape for about 8 months in 2003- 2004 went vback on holiday last year.

 

Its a wonderfull experience but realize its a lot give and take.

 

Africa you will either dislike it a lot or fall in love

 

On cycling stuff, well I graduated on this price differences are shocking although not so high anymora as 4-5 years ago but still quite a bit more expensive. So do stock up and let family bring packages when they visit.

 

In 2004 a locally sourced big blade was the same frice as  big small blade and chain together in Europe. Things have improved but don't be surprised to pay 20% 30% more on many items. Also stock is a problem if it ain't in stock move on or let it be send to you fom europe. Never believe them if they say we will get it for ya as they either can't, won't bother or will take a long time to deliver(its sad but often the truth).

 

[Eldron]

Thanks for the quick replies and the helpful info. I'ts Jo burg I'll be situated in/ I use probikekit.com in the Uk and have also had good service off them. They ship to South Africa now so I may try them over there if the price is reasonable. Ive seen other people on thsi and other blogs talking about CRC ( chain reaction I presume) used them a few times in the Uk and delivery was slow and items were missing on 2 out of 3 orders !

 

Hey Snork!

 

I wouldn't worry about supply - pretty much everything is available in South Africa...at a price. Whether it's as a result of a relatively small local market or greedy importers/distributors is debatable but most UK based online stores are cheaper - even with the poor exchange rate and shipping/VAT. I'd advise getting all the "large" stuff there (frames, wheels, groupset) and buying your consumables here (chains, tape etc.).

 

It sounds like you're pretty sorted on the large stuff already.

 

You are in for a treat weatherwise though - here in Jhb we have summer rainfall and mild winters so you can ride all year round (with maybe one month being too cold for all but the hard core).

 

Let us know when you're here and we'll point you in the direction of a good club and rides in your area.

 

Cheers!

 

[intern]

Good point that the crazy german raises. Make sure and to get soem training mates before heading out on your own so you can learn the ropes on what is safe and what is not......

[Captain Slow]

Welcome Snork and enjoy South Africa!!

 

Yep, safety is a big concern, so do all that's necessary to keep you safe whilst out training (flashing red light during the day & a bright safety vest). Normally bunch rides are a lot safer. Get your parts before leaving home.

 

Have a Safe & Enjoyable stay in South Africa!!

 

[Dirty Twin]

You will also notice that some of us here have certain fetishes.............

Some are gay' date=' others LOVE nipples.  some are just plain arrogant others on the other hand are just plain naggers.

Others stir to see if they can illicit a response

And some really make it a pleasure to belong to the Hub.

And after all of that we are like one BIG HAPPY FAMILY

FEEL THE LOVE

WELCOME
[/quote']

 

i'm gay and i love nipples, not arrogant (although i do have the nicest avatar on this forum) and never nag.

welcome to the hub, snork, and the sa! hope you enjoy your stay.

Whaaaaaaaat

[Baaisikilist]

Traditionally you need to post a photo of yourself on becoming a hubber...

Preferably a full length shot, and on a couch...

[Dirty Twin]

Welcome Snork hope you have a good time here in Sunny SA and watch out for the lurkers and Double Posters.

[Hog_]

Welcome Snork.

 

I have analysed the situation and come to the conclusion that the joke is, in fact, on you. Everyone is trying to get OUT of South Africa.

 

Let us know when you're settled, I'm sure you won't have a problem getting training partners (a picture on the couch will help). Get yourself a MTB and we'll show you the REAL way to ride!

 

Oh, and be safe, as the (other) crazy german said.