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ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2009
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Buying online vs instore: where’s the value?
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TOP RIDERS | BEST RACES | SKILLS | TRENDS | GEAR | NUTRITION
Contents
REMARK-ABLE “You may think it’s crazy, but I believe in 10 years time you will have a large bicycle commuting market in this country. Obviously it will require government support, but I believe that will come.” Jan Tropberger, ‘A beer with…’ Page 16 “That last bit was like watching a slideshow of your granny’s cruise-ship vacation. All blue hair and gin. Sorry. I shouldn’t be harping. You need to experience this journey for yourself.” Andy Ellis, ‘Stoke’, Page 18 “We are going to see a further move away from structured eventing and competition as these are totally oversubscribed and therefore not able to offer quality riding experiences.” Meurant Botha, ‘Who is behind…’, Page 40 “In an incident I barely remember, I rolled two tons of motor vehicle six times (twice head over heels and four times barrel). More like a huge bloody crash than an ‘incident’. The only thing I remember is the car tilting forward and thinking: I am going to die and I am never going to see my wife and kids again.” Neil Frazer, ‘My Challenge’, Page 76 “I’ll be racing with Austrian and European champion, Alban Lakata. Alban is an extremely quick technical rider, but as he showed at World’s this year, he can also climb. The team dynamics should be interesting; he is just as motivated as I am to try win the Epic.” Kevin Evans, ‘Racer with Soul’ Page 78
SUMMER ’09/’10
CONTENTS
6
4 SOUL PROVIDER Editor’s welcome
28 CLOSE TO HOME Jonkershoek,
42 INDUSTRY Q&A Rob Ambler-Smith
DROOL Dreamy rides in South Africa
Western Cape
12 CLUTTER Dept. of Current Affairs
30 CLOSE TO HOME Teak Place, Gauteng
BIKES & GEAR
32 CLOSE TO HOME Holla Trails,
45 MARATHON & XC RACERS from Spe-
KwaZulu-Natal
cialized, Cannondale and Gary Fisher
18
STOKE
34 CLOSE TO HOME Karbonkelberg,
20 SKILL Rail fast turns
Western Cape
22 FUEL Hydration revelation
TRAILS
24
ADVENTURE Mashatu, Botswana
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
INDUSTRY
36
62
56 REVIEWED Current cool gear TECH Traction – Our guide to tyres
CONSUMER Is online shopping
PEOPLE
really worth it?
72 MY FITNESS Ischen Stopforth
40 INDUSTRY Who is behind AMARider?
74 MY BIKE Burry Stander
Contents Freeriding was one of the 15 events at Dirtopia – Page 88 Photo: GREG BEADLE
Leave the beaches for the tourists and get far from the madding crowd on a local trail. Page 34 Photo: GREG BEADLE
ON THE COVER Sun, sea and sweet singletrack. The best of South African summer! Photo: GREG BEADLE
SUBSCRIBE AND WIN AN ADVENTURE WORTH R42000! Page 38-39
76
MY CHALLENGE Neil Frazer 78 RACER WITH SOUL Kevin Evans
EVENTS
82
RACES WITH SOUL Cape Pioneer Trek, Isuzu 3 Towers, Natro Berg
& Bush
92 CALENDAR Races in January and
96
February 2010 BLEND Lauren Goulding
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Soul Provider
Editor: SEAN BADENHORST sean@treadmag.co.za Deputy Editor: DONOVAN JACKSON donovan@treadmag.co.za Contributing Editors BARRY McCALLUM, ANDY ELLIS Contributing Photographers GREG BEADLE, AUBREY JONSSON, MARK WING, WARREN VAN RENSBURG, KARIN SCHERMBRUCKER, RONELLE RUST, DominIc Barnardt, Dion Lloyd. Creative Director: NOLENE SAUNDERS nolene@treadmag.co.za Contributors: Gary Perkin, Donovan Jackson, Anton Bosman, ANDY ELLIS, BARRY McCALLUM, Neil FRAZER, Christa North, Jason Bronkhorst, NOLENE SAUNDERS. Publisher: DONOVAN JACKSON donovan@treadmag.co.za Associate Publisher: JOANNE BADENHORST joanne@treadmag.co.za Brand Manager: Christopher Dutton chris@treadmag.co.za Editorial Address: 12 Insinde Avenue, Weltevreden Park, 1709 For advertising enquiries chris@treadmag.co.za . Subscriptions info@treadmag.co.za or call 0832797797 TREAD magazine is published with passion alternate monthly by Retread Publishing CC. All material is copyright and may not be reproduced or used in any form without written permission from the publishers.
PHOTO: Kelvin Trautman
Getting into the spirit
I
t’s a cliché, but in a new context. I was
slog into a block headwind and brutal
have teamed up with Holla Trails down in
riding with a roadie mate the other day,
wilderness. But within a week, that stage
Ballito to give you a free pass to its awesome
who also spends a lot of time on the
was the pinnacle of achievement for which
property. While you’re in KwaZulu-Natal, do
velodrome. Said his neighbour wants to
no-one who completed it has any regrets.
make sure to pay a visit to Giba Gorge, too.
do the Epic with him. Of course I launched
Ride your bike. Find out about your own
You will be impressed.
into the usual assurances of how much fun it
indomitable spirit.
And if you’ve gone off to join the
is, the experience, the awe and the beauty.
You asked for it, we’re delivering it.
hordes down in Cape Town, make a trip
But then I chuckled, remembering that Mark
That’s right, from next year you can expect
up Karbonkelberg, at the back of Hout
Twain quote, so overused in the cycling
not four, but six crisp, fresh and tasty
Bay. The trail is a bit washed out after the
world. ‘Get a bicycle. You will not regret it if
TREADs to land in your postbox. Sound
unseasonable heavy rains in those parts,
you live.’ That pretty much sums up the Epic,
delicious? We hope so, just please don’t eat
but it still renders unbelievable views and a
although, of course, you most certainly will
them. That does mean the subscription fee
gnarly descent. There’s also the joy of Tokai
live and love it too.
goes up a bit, but since a lot of our readers
and Silvermine to explore...
That’s the thing about mountain biking. Out in the field, it sometimes feels crushing,
have asked for an increase in frequency, we figure you’d be amenable to the idea.
impossible and even unfair. Stage 4 of the
Since it is the holidays and a lot of us
inaugural Cape Pioneer Trek had many a
Vaalies and other strange creatures are
mountain biker cursing organisers, the devil
poised and ready to invade the various
and the deep blue sea for the interminable
Kingdoms by the Sea, we’re very happy to
4 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
So, happy holidays and see you next year. Six times. And remember, love the ride.
Donovan Jackson Deputy Editor
SRAM®, RockShox®, Avid® and Truvativ® came together to create something even more powerful: the first ever complete 2x10 MTB group set - XX™. Brakes so powerful - shifting so fast - BB30 cranks so strong to withstand the highest level of World Cup racing - put together as a lightweight but fully featured package for anyone to experience a new level of perfomance under 2300g.
XX information: www.sram.com/xx
© 2009 SRAM, LLC
Distributed, serviced and maintanied by Cape Cycle Systems (Pty) Ltd. est 1987, www.capecycles.co.za
The first 2x10 MTB group set
Drool
6 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
River deep, mountain high
A
member of the fifth annual Big Sky Ride negotiates a crossing of the Sani River on his way to the summit of Sani Pass, at just under 3000m,
one of the the highest roads in Africa. The Big Sky Ride is a multi-day riding adventure led by Medscheme pro road cyclist, Nic White. The 2009 edition of the Big Sky Ride encountered heavy snow, unusual for November, but no doubt a memorable experience for the participants. For more, visit www.nicwhite.co.za
PHOTO: DOMINIC BARNARDT LOCATION: Southern Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Drool
Cape Town eye candy Andrew Guess, one of a handful of talented MTB trial-riders in South Africa, shows off his skills on his trial bicycle. He’s on a granite outcrop on the slopes of Lion’s Head above the Atlantic Seaboard, in Cape Town. Mountain bike trial-riding is a discipline in which the rider attempts to pass through an obstacle course without setting foot to ground. Call it what you will, we think it’s inspiring. And drool-worthy. PHOTO: Greg Beadle LOCATION: Lion’s Head, Cape Town
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Surf this…
Media
Work? Who needs it? The nature of our preferred sport often leads us to the feeling that the walls
Compiled by Barry McCallum
are closing in on us during the daily drudge. We question why we are sitting indoors in front of a monitor when we could be out bombing some trails. At http://www.miniclip.com/games/mountain-bike/en/ you can escape from it all…well, sort of. It’s a simple online game where you try post a fast time over a course littered with rocks,
Read this… It’s a bit pricey,
bridges and jumps.
but it would make
Bonuses are awarded for air time and pulling tricks, some of which are more suited to BMX or
a great Xmas gift
street bikes, like fakies and grinds. You get penalties every time you crash; the bike smashes in
and motivator for
spectacular fashion, but you magically get rewarded with a new one straight away.
the sulky, lazy pre-
The backgrounds and animation are far better than most crude Flash-type MTB games, although
teen who won’t
your rider looks like a hamster on a treadmill if you don’t let go of the speed arrow when he
pull himself away
does backflips.
from the PlaySta-
Which mountain biker doesn’t dream of a trip to Whistler. Add a little bit of the Canadian resort
tion. Matt Chris-
to your workstation by downloading a wallpaper to your PC from http://www.whistlerbike.com/
topher’s Mountain
gallery/wallpapers/index.htm.
Bike Mania opens
Listen to this...
with the line: “Will
I recently picked up a copy of Earthed 4: Death or Glory in a
Matthews stared at the television screen and
bargain bin at Look & Listen, and was reminded of my early punk
stuffed another handful of candy-coated
days when I watched the Vigo World Cup segment. There are two
popcorn into his mouth…”
backing tracks to it: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes by Bauhaus and
Left to his own devices, and with his parents
Identity by X-Ray Spex.
rarely at home, Will’s not what you would
The latter outfit formed in 1976 after adverts were placed in the
call athletic.
influential music papers Melody Maker and new Musical Express by
“However, a chance sighting of some moun-
vocalist Poly Styrene (real name Marian Joan Elliott) looking for
tain bikers on the trails during a hiking out-
‘YOUNG PUNX WHO WANT TO STICK IT TOGETHER’. According to
ing stirs something in him, and he seeks out
x-rayspex.com, the first respondents - Jak Airport (guitarist), Lora
the local MTB club. Before long, the boy gets
Logic (billed as ‘The School Girl’, but she left in the early days)
hooked on the rush the sport gives him and
and Paul Dean (bass) - fit her requirements perfectly.
Will’s new obsession leads to a straining of a
Rudi Thompson (sax) and BB Hurding (drums) joined a little later, and after just six rehearsals
relationship with an old friend and some in-
played an energetic if “a little shambolic” gig in Covent Garden, which was recorded and re-
teresting dynamics with his newfound ones.”
leased later as Live at the Roxy.
Mountain Bike Mania subtly tackles issues
After two years of gigging the band released their debut album Germ Free Adolescents, which,
facing kids today like respect, acceptance,
according to The Guardian newspaper’s critic, was a collection of “unrivalled anti-consumerism
behaviour and nutrition. It’s 160 pages long
anthems”. ‘Identity’, however, was a departure from the theme as it is said to be inspired partly
and Exclusive Books lists it at R305. Watch this…
by the lead singer witnessing a girl slash her wrists in the ladies room at a concert.
“Some people have the bad habit of biting their
that shooting started almost immediately on
planet is,” says director Derek Westerlund, “a
nails,” notes Cam McCaul on Dust & Bones,
a sequel and led to one of the most popular
fitting triumph for 10 hard years of work.”
“I seem to have developed the bad habit of
series in the genre of extreme MTB vids.
Want to own all the films in the series? Here’s
breaking collarbones, and I’m gonna try to cut
The official teaser to Dust & Bones, the 10th
a checklist:
it. Maybe there’s a gum or a patch for it…”
instalment, is almost horrifyingly unwatchable
For those who have developed a habit of en-
- big slow-motion airs are followed by some
joying McCaul’s big moments on Freeride En-
cringe-worthy, bone-twisting crashes. Watch
tertainment’s mountain bike films, it’ll be sad
it here: http://www.nwdfilms.com/new/
news to note that Dust & Bones is the last in
The film – which features the usual suspects
the NWD series.
like Paul Basagoitia, Darren Berrecloth, Rob-
The production house was set up in 1997 to
bie Bourdon and the Lacondeguy brothers,
produce stock footage for commercial, pro-
and places Greig’s classical Peer Gynt Suite
1. New World Disorder 2. NWD II - Fat Tire Fury 3. NWD III - Freewheel Burning 4. NWD IV - Ride the Lightning 5. NWD V - Disorderly Conduct 6. NWD VI – Unchained 7. NWD VII - Flying High Again 8. NWD VIII - Smack Down 9. NWD IX - Never Enough 10. NWD 10 – Dust & Bones
motional, travel and adventure concerns. Two
alongside offerings from Muse and Wolfmoth-
Got a website, book, CD or DVD you
years later, work started on the first gravity
er – went mainstream when it recently went
think we should check out, drop us a
sports film, which led to the release of the New
on offer on iTunes. “Being alongside the big-
mail at info@treadmag.co.za and write
World Disorder in 2000. It was so well received
gest films, television shows and music on the
‘Media’ in the subject field.
12 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Clutter
Say hello to Katey-M
Now what would a KTM be doing in a mountain biking mag? Quite a bit, actually. The well known motorcycle manufacturer is also a major – and we mean major – producer of bicycles, having punched out some 3-million of them to date. While they come in all shapes and sizes and for every kind of cycling, it’s the mountain bikes we like best. While TREAD is working with the local importer to get a test rig as soon as possible (check the January 2010 edition...), we can reveal that the flagship KTM Score Prestige has caught our eye (see pic and feast yours). The full-suss design is elegant and the brand cachet associated with the Austrian manufacturer is substantial. Weighing in at a claimed 9.5kg makes it race ready, too, while the retail price point is expected to be in the upper R60k to lower R70k-bracket. Interesting facts via the local importer:
• • • •
KTM has made bicycles since 1964. Back then, frame testing literally consisted of pulling them apart. With trucks. All its bikes, including the carbon ones are made in Europe, bucking the trend of outsourcing the fibreand-glue stuff to Taiwan. While you may think the motorcycle business has an impact on the bicycle design, you’re wrong. The company separated bicycles out from petrol powered ones in 1992, providing for focused R&D. KTM will initially be available from Cycle Lab stores, from December 2009.
3 Things… …you wish someone had warned you about: 1. The gap-jump at the start of the trail 2. The price of a new drivetrain 3. The rear brake being on the opposite side …that make perfect sense: 1. SRAM’s front derailleur (what took so flippen long?) 2. Tubeless tyres (how did we ride without them?) 3. Five inches of rear suspension (MTB’s happy medium) TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 13
Clutter
MY FIRST...
Puncture By Nolene Saunders
No-one expects it, no-one wants it and no-one is happy when it strikes. But despite good tyres and sealant, a puncture is going to happen sooner or later, ready or not.
I
’ve been riding a mountain bike for just over two blissful, air filled,
in a race. For me, it was a potential ordeal just getting the tyre off
puncture-free years. Two years of regular training, loads of races
the rim…
and even the 2009 ABSA Cape Epic, and never has any air escaped
So there I was that morning, riding along to the TREAD Ladies
from my tubeless tyres. Routine maintenance and making sure
Tea and Trail. As I sped along a nice flowing section of trail, I had the
that my tyres are in good condition ensured that the gods of this sort of
sinking feeling something was terribly wrong. The bike suddenly started
inflation smiled down on me. But that all changed in an instant – and of
steering itself in its own direction. This was most unusual. I thought my
course, that instant had to be on an important morning.
handlebars had come lose but a panicked look at them confirmed that
Having started the sport as an absolute newbie, I had no idea how
wasn’t the problem. What could be wrong?
the gears work, clip-in pedals were foreign and a curb was something
PUNCTURE! Turns out I had slashed the sidewall of my back tyre.
that demanded fear and respect. In my eyes, if something even tiny
Sealant was oozing out of the big cut, no chance that it was going to
misbehaves on my bike, like a gear change that’s not as smooth as it
seal. My heart started beating, there where no one in sight, I was going
should be, the whole bike is broken. Needless to say, learning how to
to have to fix this all by myself. With my boyfriend’s voice echoing in
change a tyre was a daunting task.
my head (and while keeping an eye on my pepper spray – this is Joburg
As part of my Epic preparation, I learned what to do if you get a
after all!) I managed to plug and inflate my tyre to get back home.
flat by peeking over my boyfriend’s shoulder. I listened as he explained
The sense of achievement I felt smoothed over the disappointment
everything. Problem was, I never actually did it myself. I’d heard, and
of a two-year puncture free spree. Something I had feared for so long
listened in awe, to how people casually mention quickly fixing a flat
turned out to be no biggie after all.
14 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Clutter
Recovery? Milk it, bru
TOP AWARD FOR SA PHOTOGRAPHER Gary Perkin, a regular TREAD contributing photographer, was named the winner of the second annual Velo Arto competition, held in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada, with his ‘Sunrise’ photograph, shot during the 2009 ABSA Cape Epic.
Over here at TREAD-HQ, we receive lots of interesting info (well, OK, some of it isn’t all that interesting). Something which did catch our eye, though, is a submission from The Consumer Education Project of Milk SA. This lobby group is advancing the case for a good ol’ glass and a half after a race to aid recovery. Now why would that catch our eye? Because a good few of us who labour away here are avid stage racing fans. We know lots of stage racing fans, too. And many of them drink milk after a race as the preferred recovery muti, either on its own or with some sort of potions added. Indeed, at the recent Mankele Three Towers Stage Race, the free vanilla milk let everyone get in on the action… So, Milk SA sent us a whole lot of scientific mumbojumbo, because that’s what they do down there. They back up their claims with solid science, peerreviewed, nogal, which those of you in the know… know means it isn’t just wild claims. Without going into all the fine details of studies (you can, in your own time, look it over at www.dairy.co.za) let’s look at some of the facts: • Why do endurance athletes require protein-rich foods after exercise? The inclusion of protein in post-exercise meals provides critical building blocks for muscle repair and growth – speeding up recovery and decreasing injury risk. • How should an endurance athlete consume carbohydrates post-exercise? An athlete should consume 1 to 1.2 g of carbohydrate for every kilogram current body mass within one hour after exercise and at least 50 g carbohydrate every two hours until the next main meal to ensure efficient muscle energy recovery. (Get the scale out, people, and it’s going to have to be more sensitive than the one in the bathroom…) The consumption of low GI foods (e.g. milk, yoghurt and flavoured milk) on a daily basis increases athletes’ endurance performance during subsequent workouts. • How should an endurance athlete consume protein post-exercise? Co-ingestion of protein (0.2 to 0.4 g/kg current body mass with carbohydrates (0.8 to 1 g/kg body mass) immediately after resistance exercise may improve net protein balance in the early post-exercise period and enhance the rate of glycogen (energy) storage. Low fat high quality protein, such as skimmed milk, is particularly important. • What about milk? Carbohydrates (lactose) and good quality protein (whey and casein) are found in milk within a natural food matrix. Recent research has shown that milk (especially fat-free or 2% milk) and fermented milk (yoghurt) are effective post-exercise dehydration recovery foods. Athletes who consumed these products post-exercise experienced reduced muscle damage, hastened recovery and improved subsequent exercise performance.
Showcasing the work of 10 photographers, 10 video directors and 20 artists, the Velo Arto competition had the public vote in order to determine the winner. The work formed part of the Velirium exhibition held during the month of July at Mont-Sainte-Anne. “I’m absolutely delighted. This is my first major international award for my images. I can now officially call myself an award winning photographer,” said Perkin.
we flew over, I thought that I’d love to get a
Tanya Odendaal, Marketing Manager of the
shot of the light on the bright red sand of the
Absa Cape Epic, added: “We’re extremely
road. I’m fixated on shadows and colours; it
proud of Gary’s achievement. He has always
makes people look at the photo a bit longer,
taken exceptional images at our event, which
to work out what’s going on.
is why we invite him year after year. The
“Suddenly, there was a break in the cloud.
award could not have been given to a more
The pilot did a really tight turn, so the chop-
deserving recipient. He is the consummate
per was almost vertical and I was sliding out
professional and only a pleasure to have as
of the open door with two cameras hanging
part of our team.”
round my neck. I was pretty sure I’d got what
Perkin described the shot to The Times in
I wanted but you never can tell, what with
London as follows:
the vibrations from the helicopter. So when I
“It was 7.15am on the penultimate day of the
finally saw it developed, I was pretty happy.
race and we were flying over a place called
“The Cape Epic is a two-man team race, so
Oak Valley, about 50km from Cape Town. This
it’s all about teamwork. I think this shot of
was a dark, cloudy overcast day, and sunrise
the two riders captures it perfectly and I still
only lasts for 2 minutes and 37 seconds. As
get goosebumps when I look at it.”
OFF-CAMBER Fancy a ‘cuppa tea’? ‘Erbal, you say? Like us at TREAD, you may have wondered
dodgy bits left be-
how those Colombian climbers do it. Could the
hind. But the caf-
secret lie in the ancient methods of the Incas?
feine free brew
The Aztecs? The leaves of the coca plant?
does feature a
Find out for yourself with ‘Coca Tea’, which
list of minerals as
is made from the same stuff that cocaine is.
long as, well, said
We haven’t had a high profile mountain biker
downhiller’s rap sheet.
test positive for any of that nasty business
Our test pilot is not a regular
(unlike that roadie...but then, Missy Giove,
drinker of herbal tea...but with two sugars, the
former champion downhiller, did get busted
resulting brew was quite palatable (somewhat
for involvement in an awfully large cannabis
surprisingly). And he didn’t get high.
haul) and nor will you for potting a bit of this
So put a pot on, old chap, what ho and tiddly-
fine brew. That’s right, while it is made from
poo, and enjoy the mineral benefits.
the eythroxylon plant, there aren’t any of the
www.cocazone.co.za TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 15
Clutter
A BEER WITH…
Jan Tropberger By Sean Badenhorst
Regional Director of International Sales for Cycling Sports Group, which owns the GT, Cannondale, Mongoose and Schwinn brands, Jan spent 10 days in South Africa in November. We caught up with him for a beer and a chat in Johannesburg.
What’s the South African market size like for your company?
categories of mountain bikes into where we currently stand. I don’t
In terms of actual size, it’s relatively small compared to other emerging
think there will be much more separation, just improvement in each
markets, but in terms of value and performance, it’s one of our top five.
of the categories.
It’s a key performer, thanks largely to our partner here, Omnico.
There’s a definite move toward integrated suspension systems with
What sort of percentages of your four brands occupies the mountain
various bike brands either developing better suspension in conjunction
bike space (as opposed to road) in your South African business?
with the suspension manufacturers, or like us with Cannondale,
Roughly, I’d say 30% on Schwinn, 90% on GT, 95% on Mongoose and 70%
developing their own. We launched the SIMON front shock (see
on Cannondale. Mountain biking is dominant in a similar way globally
TREAD issue 3) on Cannondale at Interbike in 2009.
too.
I also believe trail riding will grow bigger abroad and most certainly
What trends are you seeing globally, that we can expect to feel lo-
in South Africa as people in this country embrace the good weather,
cally in the coming years?
varied terrain and the bigger-travel bikes.
Well, I’m happy to say that cycling in general is growing significantly
Is the hardtail dying?
in popularity around the world. Big western cities are investing in
No. We’re seeing a bit of a comeback of hardtails. With Cannondale,
cycling infrastructure due to the eco-friendliness of cycling as well as
we’ve developed a flexible seatpost for our hardtails, which is making
recognising it as an efficient form of alternative transport. There’s now
a positive impact, without compromising weight or stiffness.
a bike lane on Fifth Avenue in New York!
Is the 29-inch bike the next big thing?
Is it growing fast?
In the United States it’s gaining popularity and with Cannondale, we
Yes, for sure! Even in this recession year, our company has experienced
do a 29-inch version of the Flash for the US market. But in Europe, the
double-digit growth in Europe.
29-inch bike is not at all popular.
After having experienced our transport situation in this country, do
What will you take back with you from your first South African
you think we can expect something similar in South Africa?
visit?
Of course. You may think it crazy, but I believe in 10 years time you will
Well, I got sunburned, so I’ll take back a serious cycling tan. I am also
have a large bicycle commuting market in this country. Obviously it will
very encouraged by this country’s people – very hospitable. You have a
require government support, but I believe that will come.
great climate here, you should appreciate that because it’s perfect for
What trends can we expect to see in mountain bike design?
riding bicycles. And I believe that our partner here, Omnico, is doing a
In the past few years, there’s been a strong separation between the
great job and can expect a bright future.
16 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Stoke
Retro Cool Confession
Fixed wheel bikes are not just about a fun, retro-alternative and testing, ride to work. They are about the build, a personal expression. Fixies are grown out of your imagination, creativity, Park tools, old frames, spray guns and a bunch of rescued parts. They are objects d’art. This I discovered after logging off and rushing home to my road heifer. A gimp I had permanently tethered to a turbo trainer. It was
By Andy Ellis
an 80’s LeJeune. Yip, past tense my friend. For I have converted that steel beast into a proud and rearing unicorn of cool. Melodrama, I know. Can’t help it. The reconstruction took about two months. After a quick stripping down I readied the frame for a fresh coat. I dived online – for inspiration only – it’s uncool to copy in fixie land. I settled on midnight blue. Then came the journey through bike shops, markets and classified ads. I found a mint track hub, new anodised rims, stainless spokes and chunky blue-walled training tyres. The racing bars got swapped for a matt black flat bar. Then came a bag of blue-anodised nuts and bolts. The saddle and the grips are white… hang on. You’re bored. Aren’t you? That last bit was like watching a slideshow of
F
your granny’s cruise-ship vacation. All blue hair orgive me fellow biker for I
the pages. The images I discovered freaked
and gin. Sorry. I shouldn’t be harping. You need
have sinned. Slowly backsliding
the butterflies in my gut. Beautiful bicycles
to experience this journey for yourself. Like the
into a carousing pit of lust and
cavorted in unashamed Technicolor. Gripped
moment the manager of a 75-year-old bike shop
wonderment, I have not worshipped
by avarice, I needed to know more of this
showed me past the flash new machines and into
my mountain bike for months. Temptation
first-world indulgence. I needed it now. Free
a room filled with unsold and used bike parts.
has led me astray. I beseech thee. Deliver me
Internet access lay beyond the locked toilet
Nothing to a regular bike rider, but to a newly
from distraction. Splash holy citrus degreaser
door. And I felt a giant Google coming on.
converted fixed-wheel architect it was heaven.
upon my brow. Utter seven hail technologies.
An ocean of illicit material streamed
A box of old-stock hubs, all kinds of cranks,
Recite passages from the scriptures of a 2010
through the browser. I shielded the screen
sprockets, headsets, spokes, bottom brackets
Specialized catalogue. Whatever it takes to
from a girl nearby. This is what I found:
and sealed bearings. I was delirious. I SMS’d
exorcise this demon.
fixed wheelers. Fixies - simple, single-speed
friends. I swiped my credit card until it lay limp
Oh the guilt. No longer do I bask in the
bicycles… are so hot right now. Think Kate
in the machine. And check this out: bike skills.
weightless deliverance of carbon fibre,
Beckinsale. Actually, no. Don’t think about
I have renewed them too. The absent-
women at all. This ultra lean two-wheeled
minded comfort of freewheeling is denied on
(
openhearted comfort of suspension and (sigh),
No longer do I bask in the weightless deliverance of carbon fibre, openhearted comfort of suspension and (sigh), holiest mud captain, the ethereal redemption of XTR gearing.
)
a fixie. You have no choice but to crank out complete circles. And brakes, what brakes? You use the power of your legs to slow down, and the single-speed gearing demands that you use the full power of your legs to climb. Fixed wheel
holiest mud captain, the ethereal redemption
revolution is the ultimate distraction. The
bikes have reignited my stoke, built strength,
of XTR gearing. Blame it on Monocle. A highbrow
paired down, street cool, eco drool of fixed
got me picking lines and committing to them.
magazine for design-centric men. I found it in
wheel commutes are mainlining the streets
They have made me a better mountain biker.
the loo of my local coffee shop. A coverline
of New York, San Fran, Sydney, London and
Better biker? Well I’ll be… that last statement
caught my eye. Sent me to page 124. Made me
Tokyo. And unless you beat the crap out of me,
sounds like one thing to me. Absolution. Thanks
sit down to pee… I needed two hands to turn
Cape Town and Jo’burg too.
for being here for me. See you next Sunday.
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Skill
Rail fast turns Being able to weave your way through turns fast is a very satisfying skill. It’s also where you can make up time in a race or on your mates during a trail ride without really exerting any additional energy.
PHOTO: GARY PERKIN
By Sean Badenhorst
BRAKE BEFORE: If you have to brake in the turn, at best, you’ll lose speed and traction; at worst, you’ll crash. Brake before you hit the turn. The more experienced you get, the easier it becomes to judge the right speed you’ll need in the turn. PICK YOUR LINE: The line you pick entering the turn is the line you’ll need to stick to throughout the turn, so choose it carefully. When you’re new to a fast corner, opt for a wider line and a slightly slower pace. As you learn the turn, you can take your speed up and choose the middle or inside line. ANTICIPATE: Look ahead towards where you’ll be in the next few seconds. That way you’ll see what’s approaching in terms of obstacles, surface and turn angle and ensure you’re prepared. DON’T STEER, LEAN: At low speed, you steer
KEEP LOOSE: Standing on the pedals and
the outside pedal. It helps the bike maintain
your bike in the direction you want to go, at
keeping your arms and legs loose through the
traction and keep you balanced in a sweet
high speed, you lean it. Steered tyres want
turn allows you to make small adjustments.
spot. The more you practise this, the better
to slide, leaned tyres want to rail. Railing is
If you feel the front sliding out, lean forward
you’ll get at ‘weighting’ your bike through
good. Railing is jargon for acing a turn fast
slightly to increase traction on the front
turns. It’s the skill that makes top downhillers
and fluidly.
wheel. If you feel the rear sliding out a
look so in control through fast turns.
LOOK WHERE YOU WANT TO GO: Yeah,
little, lean back a bit. If the rear slides out
IGNORE THE FRONT BRAKE: If you do have
yeah, we know it’s the oldest instruction in
a lot and you feel like you’re losing control,
to brake in the turn, never use the front
mountain biking, but it holds significant value
lean forward hard to dig the front wheel in.
brake, as it’ll most likely end up washing
in fast cornering. If you scan towards the exit
Chances are if your front wheel makes it
out the front wheel and taking you down.
of the turn, you should reach the exit of the
through, the rest of the bike will.
Only grab the rear brake if you must brake
turn without incident. If you look at a rock
KEEP LOW: Lower your centre of gravity by
at all (try to avoid ‘comfort braking’, that
or tree close to your riding line, you’ll hit it.
sliding back off your seat and lowering your
habit of grabbing a handful of brake just
Your head angle and direction determines the
torso towards the toptube.
to make sure they’re still working. They
direction your body and bike take. It’s quietly
OUTER FOOT PRESSURE: Obviously you’ll
are.) By making a conscious decision not to
subconscious, but by consciously looking for
have your inside pedal up and your outside
brake in corners, your riding will improve…
the clear line, you’ll be in control.
pedal down. Push additional pressure into
dramatically!
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Fuel
Bottoms Up
They say ‘hydrate or die’, the hydration alarmists do. Okay, dying is a bit extreme in terms of penalties, but serious dehydration can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal. So this really is a serious topic. Here are some useful tips to keeping hydrated this summer.
I
t’s bad enough that it gets so ridiculously hot when you’re riding a bicycle in the South African summer. Add to that the fact that as a mountain biker, you tend to drink even less than say a road cyclist. Unlike riding on a smooth, predictable surface like tar,
we mountain bikers have limited drinking opportunities due to the fact that we’re keeping our hands on the bars to control the bike. And while hydration pack manufacturers claim no-hands drinking as one of their selling points, you more often than not have to remove a hand from the bars momentarily to locate the nozzle and plug it in your mouth.
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Fuel If you ride with only bottles, your chances to gulp down a drink are usually even less. Dehydration is not a fun state to be in and the great thing is that it is almost entirely avoidable. Here are some key pointers to keep in mind: • Don’t put off drinking until later. This
REWARD
is prevalent among mountain bikers, especially newcomers, who are so busy focusing on maintaining control of the bike. Before you know it, you’re dehydrated. As with most things, prevention is better than cure. • If you are prone to forgetting to drink and have the bad dehydration story to prove it, set an alarm on your watch, GPS or heart rate monitor to beep every 15 minutes. This will give you a reminder to drink regularly until you get into the habit. • On very hot days it’s a good idea to pre-hydrate before your ride. Drink half a litre of quality carb drink in the hour before your ride to ensure you start the ride in a hydrated state. • Because you lose electrolytes when you sweat – and on a hot day you can sweat out more than 2 litres of fluid per hour use a quality training/race drink in your pack or bottle that includes potassium, magnesium, calcium and sodium.
COLD IS LIKE GOLD Your body absorbs cold fluid faster than warm
N-ice Lolly
fluid so here’s how to keep liquid chilled in a hydration pack: • Half-fill your hydration bladder with
Like riding a bicycle, ice lollies can take you straight back to your childhood. Which is a good enough reason to stock up on them this summer. The sweet, cold, colourful sensory experience that comes with devouring one on a hot summer’s day after a tough ride is difficult to beat. They’re usually full of colourants and flavourants and preservatives and artificial sweeteners, but hey, who cares?
your choice of riding fuel or water, lay it flat and leave it in the freezer overnight. Next morning, fill the bladder completely. The huge block of ice will melt slowly, keeping your liquid cold for hours. Don’t freeze a full pack as it doesn’t melt fast enough to give you a constant supply of fluid. • You can also add ice cubes to your bladder, but they tend to melt fast. • After taking a few mouthfuls from your hydration pack, blow on the nozzle hard to force the liquid in the pipe back down into the bladder where it will stay cool for longer.
Trail Adventure
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Trail Adventure
Magic Mashatu By Sean Badenhorst
I
t’s difficult to describe the sound, probably because I’d never heard it before. It was constant and smooth and it was coming from above. “What’s that sound?” I asked. “Vulture,” said Joe, our guide. “Vulture? Doing what?” I enquired as I strained my eyes to see a tiny dot high above us against a clear blue midday sky? “Flying. Soaring,” said Joe. Hearing the sound of a vulture cruising probably half a kilometre overhead was the moment I realised just how much of an escape we’d made. My wife, Joanne and I, were sitting next to our mountain bikes on a dirt road in Botswana. We were taking a break after four hours of riding. With us were two Botswana game rangers, .458 elephant-stopping rifles slung across their backs. The mid-winter sun felt warm on my skin. A colourful insect settled for a moment on my front tyre. This was Cycle Mashatu, the only mountain bike safari in the African wild. This was heaven. TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 25
Trail Adventure
F
our days and three nights we spent
we’d arrived at the Botswana border at
first camp, a gathering of five tents – well,
in heaven. Well, as close to heaven
13h05, I checked the time: 20h47.
four when we got there because one had
as you’ll get if you love mountain
The next morning Joanne and I woke at
been lifted a few metres away and trampled
biking; if you love the African
07h40 – almost 11 hours of deep, solid, good
by elephant prior to our arrival. A massive
bush; if you love a new experience. Cycle
old-fashioned sleep! For a guy that seldom
Mashatu Tree – around 400 years old with a
Mashatu is probably the best treat you can
gets more than five hours sleep a night, it
twisted mass of a trunk, probably 20 metres
give yourself, especially if you’re caught up
was the most unexpected, yet welcome
in girth and about 40 metres tall, dwarfed the
in a modern world of stress, where you’re
experience. Our guides Joe, Sparks, Mosa and
tents and became the bike park for two days.
a captive of time and haven’t had a really
Goms mentioned over breakfast that there
A central fireplace and a makeshift
deep, long sleep in ages.
were some elephants wandering around the
kitchen/bar canopy were also in the campsite
Our Mashatu trip was in winter, so we
back of our tents during the night and that
area beneath the enormous tree and 30
slept in tents. In summer, the stars are your
the fresh prints in the sand outside the front
metres away on the bank of a dry riverbed
canopy. And when I say slept, I mean really
of our tent, no more than 1.5 metres from
was a ‘toilet’, while 30 metres in the other
slept. When our supper had settled, the 2007
our heads, were those of a hyena. Now that’s
direction was a bucket shower under a
Merlot was empty and the campfire stories
what I call a solid sleep!
smaller tree. Combined with the lack of any
had become less frequent, we climbed into
We’d ridden about two-and-a-half hours
cell phone signal (which takes a little getting
our sleeping bags; and for the first time since
from the Botswana side of the border to our
used to) and kids (the minimum age is 16) this was it. Not a lot, but more than enough. With one highly qualified and super-fit game ranger at the front and one at the rear, our daily rides – starting just after 08h00 and ending at around 13h00 – may have been steady in pace, but an adrenaline surge was just an elephant-stampede or lion-chase away. For the record, this kind of situation is extremely rare since the game rangers are very experienced and exercise extreme caution when they feel you’re riding into a high-risk situation. They stop and remind you to ensure that in the case of a surprise meeting with a wild beast, or a group of them, a quick, safe escape is possible. It’s exciting to say the least. And a dramatic contrast – you’re always on the brink of a panicky dash for your life, in the most peaceful African wild. We saw plenty of elephant – some just 50 metres away from us with nothing but their instincts – and ours – separating us. We spotted loads of giraffe, eland, impala, kudu, warthog, zebra, wildebeest, baboon, monkey and a variety of small antelope. Sometimes you end up riding alongside the animals as they startle and canter off. By viewing game from your mountain bike you get to hear their hooves rumble, and their snorts or whelps. You get to feel the warm sun on your skin and taste the salt in your perspiration. It’s a complete sensory revival and it’s as invigorating as it is calming. In general, the terrain at Mashatu is gently sloping or flat. It’s not very technical,
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Trail Adventure but some of dry riverbed crossings will pose a
drinks are included in the cost and boy, what
challenge to newcomers. There’s no pressure
good food it is. Nothing like an open fire to
though because there’s no rush. There’s
give that little extra African flavour.
something very calming about the fact that you don’t have to rush.
Cycle Mashatu
On our second and third evenings, we were driven by vehicle to high ground for
The daily rides are planned so that you
sundowners. It doubled as a mini game drive
cover a couple of hours before your first
and it gave us a chance to get to know our
tea/coffee/muffin break at a scenic spot.
other group members better. Natie and Elsa
The next couple of hours take you on a loop
Potgieter, a well-travelled, knowledgeable
back to the camp where you’re spending
couple from the North West mining town of
that night.
Thabazimbi had booked this trip as a wedding
You need a moderate level of fitness and
anniversary gift to themselves. They were
comfortable riding gear. You can take your
new to mountain biking, but not new to the
own bike (recommended), or hire one of the
bush and they added some interesting stories
Mongoose Teocali dual sussers owned by Cycle
to the sundowner and campfire banter.
Mashatu. I’d recommend a dual susser for the
We’d hoped to see big cats, lion or
comfort and control, but if you’re a hardtail
leopard, on our trip but didn’t. But that’s
die-hard, you’ll be just fine. Devil thorns
okay because we’ve vowed to return. We
can be a challenge. We didn’t experience
know they’re there because we heard lion
on puncture during the three days probably
at night and on the final evening we heard
because we all ran tubeless with sealant.
a leopard close by as we watched the
We spent the first two nights in one camp,
silhouette of the large baobab tree grow
sleeping in tents and the final night at the
more dramatic as the sun settled into the
main Mashatu boma camp, sleeping under
horizon. You can’t put a price on a trip to
another huge Mashatu tree. No tents here,
heaven. But I do know that we left far richer
only a large boma. Amazing. All food and
than when we arrived.
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights (Tuesday-Friday or Friday- Monday) Start/finish: Pont Drift Border Post, South Africa. Rates: R4 356.00 per person (excludes drinks and tips) Itinerary Day 1: Meet at Border, ride to wilderness camp. Ride duration +/- 3 hours Day 2: Explore! Ride duration +/- 4-5 hours Day 3: Ride to Kgotla camp. Ride duration +/- 4-5 hours Day 4: Departure. Ride back to border post is optional www.cyclemashatu.co.za
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Trail PHOTO: GARY PERKIN
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Trail
Jonkershoek By Andy Ellis
REGION: Western Cape Winelands CLOSEST TOWN: Stellenbosch DESCRIPTION: If your mountain biking is logging up too much time away from your family, this is your spot. Everyone wins at Jonkershoek. Picnic spots, easy walks and safe exploration areas for kids are all a ‘go’. Even your bird-watching gramps will be impressed. Well okay then – that’s a green light and a pink slip. Go bike riding. Jonkershoek is up there with any of the purpose-built trails in SA. Gravel roads and jeep track get you places in the austere surroundings, but the singletrack, man – the singletrack. Look, you’re in Stellenbosch so eye-pleasing aesthetic is a given, there is no point rambling on about it. What will knock you out is the attention given to the technical bits – the singletrack is thought out, built for pleasure and guaranteed to incite your adrenal gland. Jonkershoek played host to the first round of the 2009 MTN National Cup XC and DH events. So go figure. And yes, there are jumps. There are two formal route options (15km and 30km), but once you’re deep into the twists of the jeep tracks and gnarled pine forest sections you can explore for hours. The ratio of jeep- to singletrack is high; repeating certain sections of singletrack is well worth the effort. Any challenging climbs? Hell yeah. Expect some lung-busting on switchbacks that eventually reward with satisfying switchback descents. DISTANCE: 30km NOVICE: 5/10 INTERMEDIATE: 8/10 ADVANCED: 8/10 TYRES: General terrain. Expect slippery conditions in winter. BEST THING: Singletrack in the pine forest. WORST THING: The big thrills are short lived. BEST SEASON: Spring and autumn. Get there early in summer if you want to beat the heat. GET THERE: take the N2 out of Cape Town and follow the signs to Stellenbosch. Follow the main road onto Merriman Drive. Follow the road through the middle of town. Don’t turn, even though you’ll be tempted to, until you see the Jonkershoek gatepost. COST: Day permits are available at the forestry office, located at the entrance, for R20. SECURE PARKING: Yes BE CAREFUL OF…exposed root systems – particularly in the wet. BE SURE TO…hit a wine farm for lunch after your ride. CONTACT: The forestry office at the reserve (021) 866 1512. TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 29
Trail
Teak Place By Barry McCallum
REGION: Gauteng CLOSEST TOWN/CITY: Johannesburg Trail name: Teak Place Trail description: It’s a contained network of farm road, rocky inclines, quartz-littered trails, compacted singletrack and bridged river-crossings in the Cradle of Humankind. A gentle climb on a gravel route warms your legs as you leave the compound. Near the top is the first section of singletrack which undulates over a koppie before returning to the road on the other side. From here you can opt to drop at breakneck speeds all the way down into the valley, or take the three sets of singletrack which slice their way down the left-hand side of the hill. It’s at the bottom that the real fun begins. The black and blue routes flow on both sides of the river – less confident riders may have to walk some of the slatted bridges, especially the 50-metre-long one which crosses the dam – rising and dipping to follow the contours of the bank. Following the trail will lead you back in the direction of the farm before you bear right and over a steepish climb. This drops down in the direction of Kromdraai Road. There’s a culvert which leads under it to a loop of the field on the other side. The rocks here can upset your rhythm a bit, but it’s not too technical. Distances: When TREAD visited we came across builder Grant Nathan out on the trails. Although the Teak Sports website lists the green trails at 10 kilometres, the blue at 33 and black as 37, Nathan sheepishly admitted that he hadn’t measured them for a while, but added that he has already mapped out many more paths. Novice: 5/10 Intermediate: 8/10 Advanced: 7/10 Tyre choice: Hard to pin one down because of the variety of different surfaces on the farm. Go for an all rounder, perhaps a GEAX Mezcal or Continental Mountain King. Best thing: While Cradle residents have been getting shirty about roadies in the area, dirt-lovers can have all the fun they want without irking the locals. There is plenty to do for non-riding family members – animal petting, vegetable-picking, jungle gyms, swimming pool, etc while you hit the trails. Worst thing: Viewpoint Climb…it’s only a shade over 500 metres long, but steep, not to mention slippery in the wet…the reward comes in the wooded singletrack on the other side. Best season: It’s always a tad warmer in the Cradle, even during winter, so this is an all-year-round course. Get there: The farm is situated at 522 JQ Kromdraai Road, Rietfontein. From Joburg take Malinbongwe Drive and turn left into Kromdraai. Look out for the farm on the right-hand side of the road. GPS: 25’ 57.6S 27’ 48.27E Cost: A day pass will set you back R25. Secure parking: Yes Be careful of...Mulberry season…yes, really! Piles of the fruit can get slippery when they’re all mushy. Be sure to...take a spin on the BMX track. Oh, and stop and say hello to Dawie’s cousins Gertjie and Japie on the Gnome Path (if you don’t know who Dawie is, go to http://www.treadmag.co.za/DisplayCustomLink. aspx?name=FTF%20Spot%20Dawie%20Answer). Contact info: (for the farm) info@teakplace.co.za, 082 600-0819 or 011 461-6486/7; (for trail info) info@teaksports.co.za, 074 110 0884
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Trail
PHOTO: DINO LLOYD TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 31
Trail
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Trail
The Holla Trails By Mark Wing
PHOTO: MARK WING
REGION: KwaZulu-Natal CLOSEST TOWN: Ballito TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Holla is made up of around 250km of marked trails in and around the sugar cane farms of the North Coast. From farm trails through single track, over wooden bridges to the top of the escarpment and the breathtaking views from the top of Howard’s Bush, there is always something new to see. Abundant wildlife means regular sightings of snakes, buck, mongoose, fish eagles and two jackals which live close to the Holla Head. Rain Farm Game & Lodge sits in the middle of some of the trails so you can see giraffe, zebra, warthog and plenty of buck while out biking. The trails vary widely, ranging from a flattish 15km route for beginners with a few river crossings and easy single track to get you started. There are some intermediate routes for the more experienced riders which are great for hill and single track training. Then you’ve got the routes for the serious riders and these offer challenging terrain and hectic hill climbing - but with the great views from the top it’s definitely worth the climb... DISTANCE: Green 15km relatively flat for novices, Orange 13km, Blue 20km, Purple 24km, Red 28km, Yellow 40km all for intermediate riders. Maroon 25km, Black 45km and 84km for experienced riders. NOVICE: 6/10 INTERMEDIATE: 7/10 ADVANCED: 8/10 TYRES: Not critical, use what the weather’s dictating but a general good grippy tyre would do. BEST THING: Holla Trails is a family venue with an abundance of trails to choose from so there is something for everyone. Family Day is on the first Sunday of the month and along with Spur, Holla is now hosting a Kiddies race on Family Day for children age 6 upwards. The restaurants serve breakfast and lunch from a great menu which boasts some awesome smoothies and great coffee. This is a properly awesome place to bring the whole family. WORST THING: Most of the trails are safe and close by but once you start heading out quite far it’s not advisable to ride alone – most of the area is covered by signal but there are patches without – it is always sensible to carry your phone with you in case of an emergency. BEST SEASON: All year round great riding – rain can affect the height of the rivers sometimes but that just adds to the fun. GET THERE: From the Ballito off-ramp turn left and go past Umhlali Country Club. At the T-junction turn left and at the next intersection turns right following the signs to Collisheen estate and Holla Trails. The front gate of the Holla Trails base is at S 29.49159’ ; E31.18196’ COST: Annual membership is R115 a month and Day passes are R50, Bike hire is available as well as a bike wash service. SECURE PARKING: Yes, plenty! The parking area is surrounded by an electric fence. BE CAREFUL OF…Snakes. Black mambas are in the area. When spotting one, stop a fair distance from it and they will move off causing no harm. Do not ride over them as no matter what speed you are doing it will still manage to get a bite in. BE SURE TO…Obtain your permits as these trails pass through the land of many an obliging farmer. CONTACT: Heather 032 947 1465. There is also plenty of information on the trail website http://hollariders.ning.com ACCOMMODATION: The B&B on site has room for 6 people with various other accommodations being offered along all the trails. TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Trail
Karbonkelberg By Donovan Jackson
REGION: Western Cape CLOSEST TOWN: Hout Bay TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Hout Bay is famous for being beautiful and for being something of a secessionist town; you know, the legendary ‘Welcome to the Republic of Hout Bay’ signs as you approach from either Victoria Bay or over Constantia Nek. While the little town of Hangberg which forms its Western boundary may seem a somewhat intimidating, drive through it to the top of Bayview road. Here you’ll find the trailhead to Karbonkelberg – and it is really up, up, UP and away. The climbing starts immediately and doesn’t let up. Initially, you’ll be on quite rocky jeep track, fairly loose but not too technical. This wends its way over a few switchbacks, where the gradient eases from the 10-12% to more manageable single digits. If the climb takes your breath away, wait until you look over your shoulder. Look past the Sentinel and over the working harbour in the imposing shadow of Chapman’s Peak, with a sparkling ocean and (on a good day) views all the way across to Kommetjie. The rocky stuff soon gives way to the sandy... and then a combination of both types of terrain. It is tough going, but worth it. Expect ‘fynbos’ to claw relentlessly at your legs, adding burning skin to burning muscles. Expect loose and very steep technical stuff. It is quite rutted and washed out, but keep going, even if you have to portage. Because you’re gonna come down again, and fast. Persevering souls will push through to get to the very top, where the ruins of a World War Two radar station await, along with awesome views across to Llandudno and on to Camps Bay. It is tough to get up and no doubt. From here, you can see why Pimple Mountain is so named. It does kind of jut out like a bit of an angry chorb. But now it’s time to turn that bad boy around and hook it down the descent....if you were brave enough to take a long travel bike today, you’re in for some whooping good fun. DISTANCE: About 6km from the trailhead to the top, but there are a few other paths to explore. Expect to spend about an hour if you are fit (up and down). NOVICE: 1/10 INTERMEDIATE: 3/10 ADVANCED: 9/10 TYRES: Something tough. Maxxis Monorail or Crossmark did the trick. BEST THING: The views, the technical test and the hard workout in just an hour. WORST THING: Hangberg can be scary. Once, when up there, a riot broke out in the village, making it, well, interesting getting down. ‘Fynbos’ is also not as ‘fyn’ as the name would have you think. BEST SEASON: Summer, or any time the wind isn’t howling. Winter in Cape Town is stupid. GET THERE: Drive past Mariner’s Wharf on Harbour Road, turn right into Main, right into Karbonkelberg Road, then second right into Bayview. Bayview snakes a couple of times up the hill; just follow it and you’ll get to a boom. COST: None. SECURE PARKING: There is parking outside the well kept houses at the top end of Bayview Road, but it is not secured. BE CAREFUL OF…Muggers. Keep an eye out for and be respectful of other trail users (dog walkers, hikers, etc.) BE SURE TO…Appreciate why Capetonians keep going on about these mountains and the ocean, bro. ACCOMMODATION: Hout Bay is a bit of a holiday destination, as is Cape Town. You’ll find something.
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Trail PHOTO: GREG BEADLE
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 35
Consumer
A question of value
you have ignored that value-add. It may come as a surprise, but the cycle retail business is not a passport to instant riches. Indeed, it is a very tough market with high overheads. Behind the retailer and
The Internet is a wonderful thing which allows you to buy almost anything from almost anywhere in the world – and often at a far better price than you could get it from a shop. But is price the sole determinant of value? TREAD doesn’t think so, and here’s why.
his rentals, salaries, consumables and more,
By Donovan Jackson
working in a seasonal industry. In winter, the
stands a distributor who has to carry stock, create demand with advertising (hopefully in TREAD), provide technical support, logistics, blah blah blah. Most of these operations are not corporations, but ‘momand-pops’ operations with one or two brands, industry slows down, but the shop doesn’t
O
close, it keeps running.
ver here at the TREAD-plex,
Our take is that while prices are high in shops,
we get quite a lot of letters from
there does tend to be a lack of understanding
It is a basic economic principle that
readers asking us to tackle the
of the value that a retail channel adds to you,
consumers are prepared to pay for value add. It
the end consumer.
is another that if you are not adding value, the
thorny issue of high prices in bike
stores. We worry, us bikers do, that the shops are taking the piss. They’re charging way too much for the stuff we love and need. Here’s a typical example of such a letter:
(
It is a basic economic principle that consumers are prepared to pay for value add.
)
This value is best illustrated when you
‘value chain’ realises this very quickly and cuts
of parts and spares? When buying spares
are at, for example, a multi-day stage race
you out. The Internet is recognised as a major
lately, I’ve found that even a locally based
and a shop has set up, errr, shop on site to
challenge by the entire cycle industry (hey,
online store is almost half the price of my
provide the spares, tyres and servicing that
even those of us in publishing have a bit of a
local retailer.
‘How about an article on online purchasing
is inevitably required by a large number
worry) but, like any industry, it is responding
Furthermore, a friend of mine was
of participants at such events. If the retail
to the issue.
recently regaling me with his pride at
channel was killed, owing to the ostensibly
It is doing so in many ways, one of which
purchasing new cranks. He told me it cost
high prices it charges, that is a service you
is to look at pricing. Importers are petitioning
him R4500. Whilst with me, we checked out a
would have to do without. Put succinctly,
the taxman for relief on the duties payable
website only to find the same item for R2500.
the Interpipes will not be in a position to
on goods coming in (presently at around 30%
Now that’s a saving.
deliver a new derailleur to replace the one
for most items). Leaner supply lines are being
Yes, I understand the arguments such as,
you smashed on Stage 4 of the Epic in time for
explored. And yes, margins are being examined
you pay duty and VAT, but that is minimal
you to start Stage 5. Anyone can appreciate
and cut where possible. Prices are coming down
compared to the savings to be had.
that value.
in line with a stronger Rand, but also because our industry is far from oblivious to the changes
An article such as this may be hard
What about when you want a new front
to produce as it will upset many local
fork? You do some Net research, then pop
wholesalers and possibly advertisers.....’
down to the local store, where you bend
The bottom line, for there is one, is that
the ear of probably the owner, as he is the
the retail channel does add value. It is there
Hokay. Firstly, we understand and appreciate
most knowledgeable (more so than the
to deliver bikes, parts and expertise when
the concerns. And you’re right, such an
assistant). You look at the Fox F32 and the
and where you need it. At the same time, the
article may require some sensitivity. But
Rock Shox SID. You weigh them on the store
Internet shops also add value. It is up to you
we’re brave souls here at TREAD, so
scale, examine each for finish and looks, ask
as the consumer to choose where and how you
we’ll have a go anyway.
a million questions.
spend your money (choice is a wonderful thing)
and threats which it faces.
Secondly, we know this a contentious
That is value which has been created by
depending on where you see value being added.
subject indeed and one which does warrant
the store and his supplier, the distributor. If
And hopefully, you can occasionally appreciate
investigation.
you order your choice from an online shop,
the value that your local store delivers.
36 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Consumer
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 37
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38 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
ITINERARY FRIDAY: Arrive in the afternoon. Settle in and sip sundowners on the terrace. SATURDAY: Light breakfast, ride the Spekboom Trail ending with a picnic lunch at Spekboom Dam. Return by vehicle to the Golden Cottage mid afternoon. Possibly a short night ride after dinner. SUNDAY: Light breakfast, ride the Kranskloof Trail ending with picnic lunch at the Kranskloof Dam. Return by vehicle to the Cottage mid afternoon. Pack up and depart. Note: Both rides are about 30km long and take about five hours, depending on skills level. On a technical scale the rides are 3.5–4 out 5, but each ride is very relaxed with frequent stops. The night ride will be about two hours in duration. The prize will be drawn on 30 April 2010. For more on the Gold Rush Experience, visit www.cyclemashatu.com; click on Gold Rush.
Another real prize for real mountain bikers The Gold Rush Experience in the Mount Anderson Reserve, near Lydenburg, boasts some of the best singletrack riding in South Africa. It is a land of rugged valleys with crystal streams that reflect vulture-spotted skies. Sunbirds sip from red poker aloes and eland, zebra and black wildebeest gather on mountain slopes while the bark of baboons echo off cliff faces. Singletrack weaves up to alpine heights, down winding forested valleys, along dramatic quartzite escarpments and over rocky crests. The Gold Rush is exhilarating all-mountain riding. You’ll be accommodated in the Golden Cottage, a comfortably home from home that caters for six guests in three double en-suite rooms. All rides are guided and all meals are provided. MAGAZINE
TREAD M O U N TA I N B I K I N G W I T H S O U L
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 39
Industry Focus
Who is behind: Amarider? By Sean Badenhorst
Meurant Botha is a mild-mannered, down-to-earth guy who loves riding his mountain bike. But he knows that everyone else loves riding their mountain bikes too, so he’s been proactive in getting Amarider off the ground which opens up more riding opportunities. Amarider is a non-profit organisation which TREAD is proud to support. We asked Meurant:
In a nutshell, what is Amarider?
Amarider is a Section 21 (not for profit) com-
level and progressing from there. Having eyes
Amarider is a trail advocacy organisation
pany and is audited, so the books are open
and ears on the trails everywhere is key. Many
aimed at improving mountain bike opportu-
for all to see.
areas already have key role-players and we
nities in South Africa and, ultimately, beyond
What made you start Amarider?
urge involved individuals to contact us.
our borders as well.
After the first IMBA Summit I attended in
Amarider is also the official South African af-
2006, I came back convinced that we needed
What is the toughest part about seeking support?
filiate of IMBA – the International Mountain
a structure that would allow for the collec-
Time. The past three years have been frus-
Bicycling Association, which is the undisputed
tion of donations and mobilisation of volun-
trating in terms of dealing with red tape in
leader in trail advocacy.
teers to make trail building affordable; and
setting up the business structure, but there
Why should mountain bikers join Amarider?
that we needed to promote the use of trails
is light at the end of the tunnel. We’ve simply
without a profit motive.
not spent enough time in finding and maintain-
Amarider is the only national organisation
How much support have you got so far?
ing sponsorship relations, but for 2010, we will
that addresses trail issues full-time. With funding behind us, we can address issues
Officially we are in our second financial year
And what is the most satisfying?
professionally and offer solutions, not only
and to date we have raised over R750 000 via
Amarider is an easy sell and there is nothing
advice. Even more important than funding is
donations from individuals, corporate spon-
more satisfying than seeing riders enjoying
the idea that riders subscribe to the values
sors, business, and NGO donors like PPA (Ped-
trails. Because we’ve been developing lots of
of the organisation, effectively creating a
al Power Association) which sponsors specific
trails in the Western Cape since before Ama-
community which is environmentally and so-
projects. Amarider also tenders for contracts
rider, it was simple to build on the construc-
cially aware. Ultimately, that translates into
and raises income via consulting.
tion aspect that really matters most. We’ve
responsible users of our trail systems.
How much more do you need?
therefore been able to produce results and we
What does it cost and where does the money go?
I’d like to see us able to fund full-time con-
can point you to many brand new trails and
struction/maintenance programmes in every
tracks that carry the Amarider stamp.
Membership starts at R150. At this stage,
region, so that’ll take quite a bit of money.
It is taking a bit more time upcountry but al-
revenue is split almost equally between op-
The vision is that these teams remain inde-
ready in KZN there are trails funded by Ama-
erational costs and projects like trail con-
pendent contractors and Amarider will not
rider; in Gauteng we have our work cut out by
struction. The aim is to swing the balance
build this capacity in-house.
trying to follow due process with Joburg City
towards projects, as there has been a lot of
We’d like to support a national reporting
Parks. There are, however, no shortcuts and I
initial expense to set up the organisation.
structure that we see starting at a volunteer
believe a solid structure is in place.
40 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
really have to focus on this component.
Industry Focus PHOTO: GARY PERKIN
How can mountain bikers help?
If we’re not involved with trails we organise
Our biggest challenge in dealing with the rider
Where do you see mountain biking in this country in five years time?
explosion is that of trail etiquette.
We are going to see a further move away from
outside Stellenbosch. When I say we, I mean
Riders must understand that their on-trail
structured eventing and competition as these
my wife Aryna and myself.
antics reflect on the activity and by main-
are totally oversubscribed and therefore not
How much riding do you do?
taining a positive public image, the work of
able to offer quality riding experiences to ev-
For some reason people think I ride a bike all
trail advocates is made so much easier. Too
eryone. A quick look at rider numbers at trail
day. In truth my riding has suffered badly over
many riders are trespassing on private and
centres around the country already shows the
the last 5 years but I’m planning to change
state lands and we are going to see trail clo-
massive increase in pure recreational riding.
that. After a singlespeed phase, I’ve gone over
sures because of this. Do the right thing and
That said, the fact that the numbers at events
to the dark side with my Reign X freeride bike
become good trail citizens.
still increase year-on-year is simply mind-bog-
and am simply loving it.
Amarider is all about local activism so get
gling. Because of growth, there is going to be
yourself organised on a local level. No trail
massive pressure on green space in urban cen-
Which is your favourite South African trail and why?
should be developed without a local ‘energy’
tres and unless we are organised, user conflict
Even after the devastating fires Jonkershoek
partner who can deal with and maintain lo-
is going to become an issue.
outside Stellenbosch must rank as my favou-
cal relations.
What is your normal line of work?
rite simply because of the diversity on offer.
mountain bike events and run a trail centre
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 41
Industry Focus
I am Specialized By Dononvan Jackson
At any given mountain biking event, you’re likely to see spans of Specialized bikes and equipment. That’s the consequence of a company which is very, very good at marketing what are undeniably great products. The South African distributor is Le Peloton – and it is as savvy with getting Specialized bikes and gear out there as is its American principle is. Rob AmblerSmith is one of three shareholders in the company and a passionate cyclist. We asked him:
Q
How did you get into importing Specialized bikes?
It was by chance, really. I had a warranty claim on a Specialized
which the then-distributor couldn’t resolve. I had to wait 6 months; when Le Peloton took over, its top brass came and handed the frame over in person. We got on well, kept in touch and I was asked to help with bits and pieces. From there I got much more involved.
Q
So you know all about warranty issues first hand. Is this a point
of contention?
It can be. One of the biggest issues is customer education, in terms of what the brand offers and what the customer can expect upfront. For that we look to our dealers (bike stores) and obviously, our role is to educate the bike stores which we do through regular events and even trips to Specialized in the USA (ed’s note: Specialized has something called the SBCU – Specialized Bicycle Components University – which even offers online classes for bicycle dealers).
Q
But it does sometimes go wrong? It does, but we try to bend over backwards to accommodate cus-
tomers. Being cyclists ourselves, we know how important it is to ride your own gear. There are tricky considerations, though. Stock holding is often difficult with warranty items; lead times from order to delivery are as much as 6 months, so while we plan in advance as best as possible, things don’t always work out. For example, warranty frames are often provided in one colour only, but the customer may specifically want another. In these cases, we accommodate as best as possible and also keep the customer informed. There is also option to airfreight stuff in; we’ll facilitate it, but don’t carry the cost.
Q
Specialized shocks. Both famous for the brain and notorious... Definitely! What is very important, and what we look to dealers to
communicate, is that these shocks are not maintenance-free. Often, a lack of maintenance is behind what appears to be failure.
Q
Specialized is very popular. How has that been achieved?
It comes to down to the philosophy of ‘innovate or die’. That
means a substantial and continuous investment in R&D, which is also clear in the athletes whom Specialized sponsors. We look to them for feedback and input and put their insights into practice. The company is also driven by passion for cycling; you see that in everyone at Morgan Hill (the USA headquarters). Even with great products, we’re always blown away by the innovations that are coming out of the company.
Q
The dirty word...recession. How is Specialized responding?
We’ve worked with Specialized to keep pricing as competitive as
possible in response to market conditions. Most exciting is not necessarily at the top-end, but at the middle and lower end where we have worked really hard to make a quality bike and brand available to cyclists. While most people talk price, though, we do believe it is value that you should be looking for. That’s what we have worked on putting into every level of Specialized product.
Q
Where do you see the sport going? We’ll continue to see growth in cycling in this country. It won’t be
the same as we’ve seen previously, as we’re coming off a much bigger base now. But there is ample room especially in the social riding scene, where enduro, trail and city bikes fit. In the US and Europe, the split is 80 social to 20 racing; here it is the other way around.
42 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Gear
Choice bikes and gear reviewed by our test team
GEAR UP FOR SUMMER
PHOTO: DINO LLOYD
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 45
Tested
PODIUM PEDIGREE Three American brands are making a big impact on XC and Marathon racing podiums, both abroad and locally. We put three key models from these brands to the test to find out just what’s making them so successful. By: Sean Badenhorst and Donovan Jackson
PHOTO: Gary Perkin
46 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Tested
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 47
Tested
CANNONDALE SCALPEL | R63000 RACING PEDIGREE
Speed Carbon SL weighs just 1.38kg,
just an impressive compromise. The rear
Before he joined Specialized, Christoph
which is about 500g lighter than
shock, a Fox Float RP23, is suitably stiff
Sauser raced for Cannondale for seven
most 100mm shocks.
on small bumps, but yields appropriately
years (1999–2005). And he helped make
THE BIKE
on the bigger hits to offer an efficient,
the Scalpel one of the most successful
No need for Cannondale to change
but not a plush ride. Plush of course isn’t
racing models ever. Launched in 2000,
a frame that’s been one of the most
a necessity on a top-end racing machine
Cannondale’s Scalpel quickly sliced its
successful racing frames for almost a
so we were content to make this sacrifice
way through the XC World Cup rankings
decade. It’s still full carbon; it’s still got
in favour of speed.
and carried the likes of Sauser, Jakob
the zero-pivot rear triangle design with
One annoyance was the clacking noise
Fuglsang and Roel Paulissen to numerous
vertical-flex seatstays; and it’s still using
the rear derailleur and rear brake cables
international victories.
the Lefty Speed Carbon fork. They made
made against the underside of the top
More recently, Paulissen won the 2008
a few tweaks though: The rear shock link
tube when the rear shock was doing its
and 2009 Marathon World Championship
is now made from magnesium, which is 30
bump-munching thing. We fitted a cable-
and, with Fuglsang, the 2008 Absa Cape
grams lighter than the previous aluminium
tie, which did the trick but didn’t look
Epic titles on a Scalpel.
link; and the seatstay bridge has been
very appealing. An extra set of cable
redesigned to increase lateral stiffness. On the top-end Scalpel Team model, the carbon layup has been adjusted to add stiffness and decrease 10 grams in weight. Our test bike was white with black and blue trim, but the production colour is Jet Black with red accents. With the shock placement in the top corner between the top-and seat-tubes, there’s plenty of space for a frame-mounted bottle cage. It’s also got a relatively uncluttered, attractive look. The Lefty shock adds to the unique appeal of the Scalpel. You never quite feel like you’ve examined it enough. Apart from the front derailleur (which is XT), our test bike sported a full Shimano XTR groupset – hydraulic brakes, trigger TECH ADVANTAGES
shifters, rear derailleur, crankset, and
guides near the shock mount would
• No rear triangle pivot. Cannondale
wheelset.
probably eliminate the problem. The
claims the Scalpel gets 100m of
THE RIDE
XTR brakes aren’t a favourite of ours,
vertical rear wheel movement from
From the first pedal stroke, we could
but they worked well enough and the
leaf spring-like carbon chain stays,
feel the racing genes in the Scalpel. It
shifting was, not surprisingly, flawless in
eliminating the need for energy-
responded like an angry snake, surging
all conditions.
sapping, maintenance-seeking
forwards and wanting more. The geometry
THE VERDICT
bushings and hardware.
combines a slightly ‘easy’ 69.5-degrees
If you’re a competitive rider with no
head tube with a slightly ‘tighter’
budget constraints and a burning desire
is the integration of certain
74-degree seat tube angle which left us
for minimal weight, we’d recommend
components into the frame/fork
feeling perfectly centred and in control
going for the top-end 9kg Scalpel Carbon
design, increasing strength and
of the steering, which was very direct, as
Team. If money is some object and
reducing weight in areas like the
we expect on a XC race bike.
personal bests are more realistic than
• System Integration. Or SI, which
bottom bracket/crankset; fork/hub; steerer tube/stem. • Lefty shock. The 110mm-travel Lefty
48 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Climbing was a pleasure both seated
podiums, then the Scalpel is about the
and stomping out of the saddle. No
best place to start looking. It’s unlikely
noodle-like floppiness, no hardtail-rigidity,
you’ll need to look any further.
PHOTO: Dino LLOYD
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 49
Tested
GARY FISHER SUPERFLY 100 | R72000 RACING PEDIGREE
better over small bumps. And face it,
used to. But once we’d become more in tune
Unlike the S-Works Epic and the Scalpel, the
most XC and marathon races aren’t
with the Superfly 100 we became more and
Superfly 100 is still carving out its racing ped-
exactly full of huge bumps and rocks,
more confident in the bike’s ability to nego-
igree. Gary Fisher came up with the 29-inch
especially in South Africa. The larger
tiate the winding, sharp trails at speed. The
wheel design a decade ago and it’s taken that
wheels offer better traction area and
rear suspension, which has been simply, yet
cornering stability.
elegantly linked to the underside of the lower
long for the larger format mountain bike to be taken seriously in terms of racing performance. As with anything new in mountain bike
• Lighter weight. It’s the lightest dual-
end of the top tube, has that appropriately
suspension 29-inch bike, it’s Gary
taut XC feel with smooth progression through-
Fisher’s lighest dual suspension bike
out the stroke.
design (shocks, tubeless tyres, hydraulic disc
period and it’s comparable with most
brakes) it takes while to be perfected. Ditto
26-inch lightweight race bikes.
Bontrager Team Issue XR1 1.9-inch tyres to be
On rough terrain, we found the narrow
29-inch wheel race machines – dual suspen-
• G2 Geometry. Increased fork offset
confidence-robbing. The importers reckon they
sion nogal. In 2009, two members of the US-
and reduced trail, which means the
recommend an immediate switch to the more
based Subaru Gary Fisher race team, Jeremy
steering is more responsive allowing
voluminous Bontrager XDX 2.2-inch models.
Horgan-Kobleski and Heather Irmiger, won
the bike to tackle tight, twisty courses
We concur. Despite the initial reconditioning
with nimbleness. THE BIKE It takes a while to feel comfortable around the Superfly 100. We couldn’t help but think of that great Coen Brothers movie, Fargo. The scene where Steve Buscemi’s character is described by a hooker as being ‘funny looking’. Those big wheels do look rather odd to someone used to 26ers. Its full-carbon frame is beautifully finished and wears its black, white and red colouring boldly. And the anodized red detail of the SRAM X.0 shifters and rear derailleur show that plenty of thought has gone into this bike. But the wheel size and proportionately narrow tyres (1.9-inch Bontrager XR1 Team Issue) tug constantly for your attention and leave you with more questions than answers. the US men and women’s national XC titles
Rear suspension is managed by the
period and after riding the Superfly 100 for a
respectively on Gary Fisher Superfly 100s.
popular Fox RP23, which is mated to the
few days, we began to feel faster and actually
And then their compatriot, Willow Koerber,
Fox F100 FIT RLC 100mm-travel fork. Not
caught ourselves thinking that 26-inch wheels
snapped up the bronze medal in the Elite
surprisingly, the Superfly 100 is draped in
seemed undersized…
women’s race at XC World’s – the first ever
Bontrager parts with white Avid Elixir hy-
THE VERDICT
medal for a 29-inch bike at world champion-
draulic disc brake levers and a Truvativ Noir
It seems as if the 29-inch dual suspension race
ship level.
crankset.
bike has finally arrived. The Superfly 100 has
THE RIDE
world-class XC podiums to drive home its cred-
Shan Wilson have become champions of the
On long, open sections of trail at speed,
ibility as a serious race bike. For the majority
bigger-wheel cause, achieving success indi-
one of our testers mentioned he could feel
of South African races, which are marathons
vidually and as teammates in stage races dur-
what seemed like a gyroscopic effect from
relatively low on the technical scale, the Su-
ing the latter half of 2009. Expect the 29-inch
the larger wheels. That being said, it’s su-
perfly is very well suited. It’s a bike you can
wave to gain momentum on the racing scene
per quick over dirt roads and non-technical
only judge once you’ve tried it. And after test-
in 2010.
terrain, particularly with the ProPedal ac-
ing it, we reckon the Superfly 100 is the bar-
TECH ADVANTAGES
tivated.
rier-breaking model that will alter mountain
Locally, top veterans Andrew McLean and
• Bigger wheel size. Bigger wheels roll
50 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Tight, twisty terrain took some getting
bike racing for good.
PHOTO: Dino LLOYD
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 51
Tested
SPECIALIZED S-WORKS EPIC | R75000 RACING PEDIGREE
THE BIKE
many other frames), with 1 1/8”-to-1 1/2” ta-
After Swiss star, Christoph Sauser took the S-
Elegant, sleek lines combined with the bold all-
per, renders the front end stiff and confidence
Works Epic to the XC world title in 2008 – the
carbon gloss red and matte carbon colouring
inspiring. On the subject of stiff, grab the back
first ever dual suspension bike to claim the
make you feel like you’re in the presence of
wheel and see how much play you can get out
coveted honour – South Africa’s Burry Stander
classy bike before you even swing a leg over
of that linkage. None. This bike came with Spe-
spent 2009 confirming that a dual susser can
the top tube. The fact that it’s been one of the
cialized’s own S-Works carbon crank arms, but
be ridden to XC success. Stander had an in-
most successful bikes in both XC and marathon
featured Truvativ XX Dual chainrings. You’ll love
credibly successful year, rising to No.2 in the
races over the past two years is testament to
XX for staying on the big ring (in this case a 39,
XCO world rankings, finishing third overall in
the advances Specialized has made with its sig-
with a 24 great auntie ring – hey, there isn’t
the UCI World Cup, winning a World Cup round
nificant investment in R&D.
a granny, so...) – mated to an 11-36 cassette)
overall, winning the Under-23 World Cup title
Suspension now contains Fox elements as
and becoming the Under-23 World Champion.
opposed to Specialized’s in-house-only con-
But you’ll hate it when you realise your
In terms of marathon success the S-Works
struction and design in ‘08 and ’09. It’s still
only choice of replacement is that admittedly
Epic didn’t really have to do more than win
called Futureshock technology, only now it
awesome – and expensive-looking 10-speed
six stages of the 2009 ABSA Cape Epic under
works better. Naturally both front and rear
cassette.
much longer.
suspension use Specialized’s own inertia valve technology which means suspension kicks in only when required. 100mm of travel at both ends is plenty for XC and marathon racing. The wheelset is Specialized’s Roval Control SL and the groupset is the much-anticipated SRAM XX. Let’s face it, not much could beat the crispness of the X-0 rear derailleur and shifters. But plenty could beat SRAM’s front mech, which didn’t exist until, like, just the other day. It has arrived and on the dual crankset, the real difference is to be seen. Never mind weight; fewer shifts up front means less chance of losing a chain. And that beautifully engineered front derailleur doesn’t just look the part. It is the business. THE RIDE Taut, fast, lithe. Going uphill is where this bike really shines – zero pedal bob and no fork bounce even when you’re honking hard. the guidance of Stander and Sauser to show its
Those coming right off an ‘08 model, where
Our test rig came in at 9.90kg which is under
versatility as a racing thoroughbred. Stander
the rear shock sat parallel with the left seat
the magic 10kg mark; Burry’s race machine is a
also won the SA Marathon Champs and the Af-
stay, may find the new S-Works feels a bit top
bit lighter. Is it fast? That should be rhetorical.
rican and South African XC Champs titles on a
heavy at first. But that sensation is dispelled
Since being bust out in the current guise, this
S-Works Epic.
pretty quickly. Futureshock means Brain tech-
S-Works has been racking up titles faster than
TECH ADVANTAGES
nology in one of those fork stanchions – auto
Charles Dickens did at the height of his creative
• Total suspension integration. The
lockout front and rear working in perfect tan-
powers. Under the legs of Stander, it’s put a
entire bike, including front and rear
dem. Almost felt illegal! It takes a bit of get-
South African on the top of the world. It made
suspension, was designed from inception
ting used to, but man, does it work well. No
us feel on top of the world too.
to complement one another for peak
dicking around with levers and gadgets on your
THE VERDICT
performance and minimum weight.
handlebars, no twisty on top of the right stan-
All this impressive technology comes, not sur-
• Flow Control Brain Technology. Both front
chion. Just shock absorption when you need
prisingly, at a high price. But if you’re after
and rear suspension has the increased
it. And a hardtail/rigid front when you don’t.
premium performance you’re not going to be
efficiency and control that the inertia
The tapered headset, following a cue set by
disappointed. The S-Works Epic is everything
valve design offers.
the S-Works SL-2 road frameset (and no doubt,
we expected and probably a bit more…
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Tested
PHOTO: Dino LLOYD
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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GARY FISHER SUPERFLY 100
GEOMETRY SIZES: S 15.5-inch, M 17.5-inch (tested), L 19-inch, XL 21-inch, XXL 23-inch TOP TUBE LENGTH: 597mm SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 385mm HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 71 degrees SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 73.6 degrees CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 452mm WHEELBASE: 1118mm SPECS PRICE: R72000 COLOURS: Gloss black and white with red detail WEIGHT: 11.1 kg FRAME: OCLV Co-molded carbon fibre with Fox Float RP23 trail tuned shock FORK: Fox F100 FIT RLC with 100m-travel and lockout GEARS: SRAM X.0 Redwin trigger shifters and rear derailleur, Shimano XT front derailleur BRAKES: Avid Elixir CR hydraulic disc with 160mm rotors front and rear CRANKSET: Truvativ Noir Redwin Carbon 44/32/22 WHEELS: Bontrager Race X Lite Scandium tubeless ready TYRES: Bontrager XR1 Team 1.9-inch front and rear COCKPIT: Bontrager Race X Lite stem, Bontrager Race Lite handlebar, Bontrager Race XXX Lite carbon seatpost, Bontrager Race Lite saddle CONTACT: Just Fun Sports - Tel: +27 11 405 3300 X C - M A R A T H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E
CANNONDALE SCALPEL 2
GEOMETRY SIZES: S 15.9-inch, M 16.9-inch (tested), L 18.9-inch, XL 19.7-inch TOP TUBE LENGTH: 600mm SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 430mm HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 69.5 degrees SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 74 degrees CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 424mm WHEELBASE: 1106mm SPECS PRICE: R63000 COLOURS: White and black gloss with blue detail WEIGHT: 10.6kg FRAME: Scalpel carbon fibre with Fox Float RP23 100mm-travel shock FORK: Lefty Speed Carbon SL with 110mm-travel GEARS: Shimano XTR trigger shifters and rear derailleur, Shimano XT front derailleur BRAKES: Shimano XTR hydraulic disc with 160mm rotors
CRANKSET: Shimano XTR 44/32/22 WHEELS: Shimano XTR rear hub and rims, Shimano Lefty front hub TYRES: Continental King Race 2.0 front and rear
COCKPIT: Cannondale SI stem; Truvativ Stylo Team flat bar; Truvativ Team carbon seatpost; Fizik Aliante saddle CONTACT: www.omnico.co.za; 021 6910110 X C - M A R A T H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E
GEOMETRY SIZES: S, M (tested), L, XL TOP TUBE LENGTH: 580mm SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 444mm (centre to top) HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 70 degrees SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 74 degrees CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 425mm WHEELBASE: 1098mm SPECS PRICE: R75000 COLOURS: Natural carbon/red WEIGHT: 9.90kg FRAME: FACT carbon with 100mm-travel FOX SBC shock FORK: Specialized Future Shock with 100mm-travel GEARS: SRAM XX carbon trigger shifters, SRAM XX 10-speed rear derailleur, SRAM XX front derailleur BRAKES: Custom Avid XX hydraulic brakes with 140mm rotors front and rear (160mm rotors on L and XL) CRANKSET: S-Works OS carbon cranks with 39/26 chainrings WHEELS: Roval Control SL hubs and rims TYRES: S-Works The Captain 2.0-inch front; S-Works Fast Trak LK 2.0inch rear COCKPIT: Syntace stem; S-Works XC carbon handlebar; S-Works carbon seatpost; Specialized Phenom SL saddle CONTACT: www.specialized-sa.co.za; 011 627 5080 X C - M A R A T H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E
SPECIALIZED S-WORKS EPIC
Tested
© 2009 TREK BICYCLE CORPORATION
Distributed by Just Fun Sports
Tel: +27 11 405 3300
Gear MOMSEN DESIGN Ti QRs There’s something about the way a colour-coded quick release skewer completes the look of a bike. It says the rider pays close attention to detail and has pride in his/ her machine. It says connoisseur. And this titanium pair we’ve been trying out say Momsen Design on the lever. An early arrival from the new high-end range of parts and accessories sourced by astute South African gear guru, Victor Momsen. We dig the smooth action of the lever, which never stiffened up – even after muddy rides – apparently because of the bronze washer impregnated with oil against which the lever sits. They weigh very little – 90g for the pair – are super-strong and are available in anodised red, gold, blue, black and green. Price: R440 Contact: 041 3685708; www.momsendesign.co.za
SPECIALIZED REAR CAGE MOUNT Triathletes have been doing it for years and years and it’s become a sensible option for mountain bikers too now. No, we’re not talking about shaving your arms, we’re talking about mounting a bottle cage on your seatpost. For racers that only use bottles and ride a dual suspension that only permits one bottle to be mounted inside the front triangle, it’s a practical option. Specialized has designed two clamps that attach most cages to a 30.9-mm diameter seatpost. Clever. Price: R145 Contact: www.specialized-sa. co.za; 011 627 5080
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Gear CAPESTORM NITROS BIB SHORT The best test for any bike shorts is a really long, hard stage in a, well, stage race. That’s what CapeStorm’s Nitros got, a couple of times, with a pretty busy end-of-year race schedule for TREAD’s team of testers (OK, in this case it was just Donovan Jackson, after all, one test pair of rods can only go so far). As CapeStorm’s flagship bib pant, which is, it says, the culmination of an effort to make the best cycling shorts ever, does the Nitros hit all the marks? Construction: Multipanelled, this garment is made from larney material, Italian Fidicia lycra to be exact. While the multipanels give a great body-hugging fit, it has an idiosyncratic elasticised section to grab your leg. Comfortable, but some may prefer the more prosaic elastic; gels tucked in there won’t stay. The bib bit is mesh, cool and comfy and stood up to a good few exposures to the washing machine. Pad: This is the heart of any short. The Nitros delivers very nicely here. Like any new short, even for...short...rides, you’ll want to soften that puppy up with some bum-lube. But the Nitros will keep your undercarriage well cosseted over even the longest distances. Finish: The reflective printing on the sides did seem to wear a little quickly, but the rest of the short held up well to the repeated beatings it received out in the bundus. And in the wash. Overall, a very good value-for-money piece of technical gear that proved worthy of the toughest South African stage racing conditions. Get more than one pair though. At the price, you can. Price: R995 Contact: www.capestorm.co.za; 021 7612021
PRO Atherton grips That’s the thing about being an Atherton. You’re automatically cool as one of not one, not two, but three World Cup winners (and two world champs) in a single family. All that fame comes along with cool endorsements, awesome gear and loadsa respect from us mere mortals. And among that awfully cool stuff is a whole range of Shimano’s PRO branded gear with little boy-boy-girl logos on it, one for each Atherton, see, Dan, Gee and Rachel. Clever? You bet . Cool? As an Atherton. Price: Approx. R180 Contact: CoolHeat, 011 608 2003 www.coolheat.co.za TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Gear
MOMSEN DESIGN LB SEATPOST It’s not that easy to come by a feather-light offset seatpost, but Momsen Design has found this sweet spot with this 184g, 25mm offset looker. The 31.6 x 350mm post is fully CNCmachined 2014 T6 aluminium with a bonded head, delivering a combination of light and strong. It sports titanium bolts and the top clamps and the lower cradle will be also be available from January in anodised blue, red, green and gold. It took some time to get the seat angle just right – front bolt needs a small spanner, rear bolt uses an Allen key – but it was worth the time for the weight saving, according to our gram-sensitive tester. Also available in a 410mm length in three diameters: 27.2, 30.9 and 31.6mm, and soon, a straight-up option. Price: R895 Contact: 041 3685708; www.momsendesign.co.za
PROLOGO VERTIGO PRO SADDLE If you’re a XC or marathon racer and you’d rather lose weight on your bike than your body, then a useful place to start is with your saddle. Prologo’s Vertigo Pro has a carbon fibre-injected base with titanium rail construction for dependable strength and support but low weight. Pictured on the end of this seatpost is its cousin, the Prologo Nack; similar in most respects except the Nack (My Sharona, anyone?) has carbon rails and isn’t available locally (although we got to perve one. Showoffs. We know). The Vertigo Pro features Prologo’s easy stroke design (ESD), which means it’s been shaped to give more space for your leg movement. We ride a lot of different saddles and recommend comfort over light weight, but found the length and comfort of the Vertigo Pro to be as good as our favourite saddles, which aren’t quite this light – 221 grammes (the Nack is just 163)! Guess who’s found a new favourite… Price: R1650 Contact 041 3685708; www.twowheelstrading.co.za
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Gear LEZYNE PORT-A-SHOP If you’re leaving behind the urban chaos to find a peaceful riding spot far from cell phone signal, office stress, traffic jams and, well, bike shops, then you’re going to need some tools man. Lezyne’s Port-A-Shop is exactly that – a portable shop, high in tool value. It contains the following tools, which solve most on-the-go maintenance and repair problems: • Allen key set • Torx key set • Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers • Chain breaker • Spoke spanners • Tyre levers • 15mm spanners x 2 • Patch kits •
Bottle opener (ahh!)
This all fits neatly into a handy, strong carry bag, which keeps the tools organised and secure. As we’ve come to expect from Lezyne, the quality of the tools is top-end, which is important when you’re relying so heavily on them to keep your wheels turning no matter where your MTB nirvana is located. It’s not cheap, but then you pay for quality, because it’s reliable and it lasts. Makes for a great gift we reckon. Hint, hint. Price: R1000 Contact 041 3685708; www.twowheelstrading.co.za
FIRST ASCENT NO SWEAT BANDANA Summer heat means more sweat. And one way to keep head sweat from making your riding uncomfortable is by wearing a bandana beneath your helmet. First Ascent’s No Sweat Bandana is made from Quik-Wic, a very light, breathable fabric that removes the moisture from your head, helping prevent sweat from getting in your eyes and onto your eyewear. It’s designed so that you can slip it over your head and tie it at the back of your head to ensure it stays firmly in place no matter how rough the trail surface is you’re tackling. It also keeps your helmet padding from getting sweat soaked. Colours: Navy, Gray, Pink, Ice Blue Price: R50 Contact: www.firstascent.co.za; 021 7879380 60 |
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Gear FALKE MTB SOCKS
A tough sport requires a tough sock. Falke’s Mountain Bike sock is made specifically to handle the rigours of mountain biking. The rib top with terry cushioning help protect your ankle bones from flying stones or a mistimed pedal-induced scrap on rocks, with the increased elasticity helping keep grit from getting in your sock. All the usual comfort factors are included – Falke’s Drynamix Moisture Management System, strategically placed cushioning, extra fine toe seam, specially constructed ventilation panels, soft elastic arch support and reinforced heel. They’re a big favourite among our test team, not because they come in four cool colours, but because we don’t really notice them when we’re riding. And that’s because they function like they’re meant to. Colours: Royal blue, Olive green, Tulip red, Pink, Charcoal Sizes: 4-7, 8-12 Price: R34.95 Contact: www.falke.co.za; 021 951 2137
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Masterclass
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Masterclass
TRACTION You either have it or you don’t. And it’s only when you don’t have it that your realise it’s not there. And sometimes, no, often, it’s a painful realisation. We gathered more than half a century of combined expertise in the field of mountain bike traction from TREAD staff and contributors to present this comprehensive guide. Compiled by Anton Bosman
PHOTO: GARY PERKIN
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Masterclass PHOTO: Graig Dutton
S
o let’s start with a disclaimer. No, we’re not unsure of our knowledge, we just know that no two mountain bikers have
Hardpack complemented by some rooty stuff. A good lesson: even tyres designed for specific conditions have to be versatile to deal with terrain that can rapidly change within the space of a sinlge trail or stage. And remember, where wet roots are concerned, almost every tyre is going to slide - fast.
exactly the same take on traction. So while there are certain rules of physics that are undeniably related to keeping
the rubber side down, terrain, skill level, rider size, bike design and usually an element of luck, all play a role in traction satisfaction. We demand a great deal from our tyres, which is why we should pay them plenty of attention. After all, your traction is only as good as your tyre choice. Poor traction will leave you sliding out on corners, spinning out on steep climbs, or washing away on sloping gradients. We expect our tyres to carry us for hundreds and hundreds of kilometres and then we curse them when they puncture or cut or, lose traction… It’s this cursing from occasional failure that motivates the tyre manufacturers around the world to put more money, energy and expertise into tyre technology. They’ve turned tyre development into a science so that we can turn it into an art.
SOUTH AFRICAN CONDITIONS If ever there was a country with varied mountain biking terrain, it’s South Africa. From pine-needled forest floors, to brittle shale, to damp coastal soil, to sketchy hardpack, to rooty singletrack, to sandy jeep track, to muddy cane fields, to rocky hillsides, to thorny bushveld… We’ve got the lot! Which is why we need a variety of mountian bike tyre types, so that we can tackle the different types of terrain with control and confidence. There are three main types of tyre category we use in this country. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:
Conditions: Dry, hardpack Mostly found in: Gauteng, Northern Cape, inland Western Cape, Free State, Northern Limpopo, inland Eastern Cape Tread style: Relatively fast rolling centre with large sidewall knobs for maximum cornering traction. Width: Ranging from 1.95-inch to 2.25-inch. Popular choices: Maxxis Crossmark, Specialized Fast Trak, Schwalbe Racing Ralph, Kenda Karma, GEAX Mezcal. Recommended: Maxxis Crossmark. This model has a fast rolling centre with relatively shallow knobs, which are also spaced wide enough to get rid of the occasional mud. This tyre hooks up nicely to rocks and even wet roots, the slightly raised side knobs providing excellent cornering traction. For those more into cross-country racing, the Kenda Karma is the bomb. Tip: Heavier riders and those still developing cornering skills should go for a wider tyre.
Conditions: Varying from soft to stony to rocky Mostly found in: Karoo areas of Eastern Cape and Western Cape, some parts of the Free State and Northern Cape, North West. Tread style: Relatively aggressive knob pattern all round – centre and side. The knobs are quite widely spaced which encourages maximum
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
grip but also helps shed light mud. These tyres normally perform at their best on stony or rocky terrain and are great confidence Suomi/Nokian off-road tyres are designed in Finland for MTB racers and enthusiasts. Each model has a specific tread design to deliver the right features for the intended use. New rubber compounds are designed to work on all surfaces and conditions. DRC (Dual Rubber Compound) is fast rolling, specifically for XC/Enduro, while SRC (Slow Rebound Compound) is soft and sticky, ideal for downhill or freeride. Meanwhile, our ethylene propylene diene (EPDM) compound improves weather resistance and eliminates cracking.
builders for those more concerned about traction than speed. Width: Ranging from 2.1-inch to 2.3-inch (can be dependent on fork and/or frame clearance). Popular choices: Geax Saguaro, Continental Mountain King, Specialized The Captain, Vredestein Black Panther (only available as tubeless) and Panaracer Rampage (available as a 2.35-inch width for those who like their tyres wide). Recommended: Specialized Captain. This tyre does not have the fastest centre knobs but does have an aggressive knob pattern all round, giving a high level of traction in most conditions.
Conditions: Soft to muddy Mostly found in: Most coastal parts of Eastern and Western Cape, Mpumalanga, most of KwaZulu-Natal. Tread style: Let’s talk serious mud such as that encountered on Day 1 of the 2006 Cape Epic, Day 2 of the first Sani2c or that at the whole 2008 Sabie Experience. Mud that sticks like gum on your tyres and has you sliding down singletrack sideways. Two schools of thought on this. The first being that no matter what tread pattern you have, it won’t make a difference. We agreed among ourselves on the second school of thought which says go with mud-specific tyres. These are quite narrow, which allows the tyre to sink into the mud and make contact with the harder surface below. It also allows more frame clearance in the case of the mud caking up on the tyre. The wide knob spacing encourages more rapid mudshedding, or so conventional logic holds. Width: Ranging from 1.8-inch to 2.0-inch. Popular choices: Schwalbe has a new tyre soon to arrive called the Dirty Dan, which we believe is getting rave reviews abroad (with a name like that...), while Geax’s Barro is also a great mud tyre. Recommended: Bontrager Mud X TR. This tyre is made from a rather sticky compound and is tubeless-ready. Paradoxically, (see above) Kenda Karmas are always a popular choice when its mucky out there. Those wide-spaced knobs not only claw nicely onto loose rocky stuff, but shed sticky mud quite well too.
GO
BIGGER
Trail or freeriding requires a more robust approach to tyre choice. More aggressive knobs and greater tyre width are needed to deal
Suomi NBT 2.1 & 2.3
Designed for XC, Enduro & Trail bikes, the NBT 2.1 and 2.3 are fast rolling owing to a specific centre tread design. • Multiple edges on knob improve grip on hardpack. • Excellent grip on all conditions due to DRC tread compound (50/60A). • Optimized casings for different riding styles: SW/ SWA for XC/Enduro and GW for Trail.
www.suomityres.com
Suomi NBT 2.2 LITE
NBT 2.2 LITE is an XC/Marathon racing tyre, super fast rolling with a low tread design. • Multiple edges on knobs improve grip on hardpack. • Excellent grip in all conditions due to DRC tread compound (50/60A). • Light and flexible skinwall casing optimised for racing.
NBT 2.5 DH
The NBT 2.5 DH is a freeride tyre for hardcore offroad riding and DH racing. • Fast rolling due to specific center tread design. • Multiple edges on knob improve grip on hardpack. • Stable handling in high speed sections with grooved centre knobs. • Excellent handling on corners due to slow rebound SRC tread compound (45A). • Puncture protected industrial casing. • Excellent snake bite protection with stiff sidewalls and apex profiles.
Warranty
All Suomi tyres have a 2 year factory warranty in case of manufacturing and material defects. The limited warranty is valid for 2 years from the purchase date by the original purchaser.
with the bigger impacts and faster cornering speeds. These tyres are normally heavier with thicker sidewalls. They range in width from 2.3-inch to 2.5-inch.
Imported and distributed nationally by International Trade: 011-486-0060
Masterclass Tyres you can’t go wrong with Left: Maxxis Crossmark Below centre: Bontrager Mud X Below right: Specialized The Captain
All the boring, scientific stuff that goes on in rubber laboratories comes down to one thing: turning it into a thrill in the field. Ripping up some mud takes a good set of tyres into which a lot of research and development is invested.
PHOTO: GARY PERKIN
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Masterclass
TUBELESS – HOW DID WE GET BY BEFORE? Not too long ago, people were weighing up the pros and cons of tubeless vs tubes when determining wheel and tyre choices. But with technology making the advances it has over the past few years, it’s become pretty obvious that tubeless is the way to go. And virtually all serious mountain bikers make the switch at some stage. Of course tubeless isn’t just about tyres. Rims are obviously just as significant in this marriage of functional convenience. There are two options – tubeless ready rims and then kits that convert regular rims into tubeless compatible rims.
Look for thE rhino anD not thE othEr oU!
Benefits of tubeless (just in case you didn’t already know): Lighter weight: Tyres have gone from weighing around 800–900 grams to as little as 450 grams. Lower pressure: Because you don’t have a ‘snakebite’ or impact puncture concern with tubeless, you can run your tyres at lower pressures, which increases traction, sometimes substantially. Thicker sidewalls: Because they need to hook firmly into the rim – and stay there – tubeless tyres have thicker sidewalls which also limit tears or cuts. Sealant ready: By adding a sealant to tubeless tyres, you can also reduce the risk of punctures caused by sharp objects like thorns or glass. The sealant also helps make the tubeless tyre/rim combination more airtight.
TUBES – HOW CAN WE SURVIVE WITHOUT THEM? We’re the first to gush about how tubeless technology has improved the way we ride and elevated mountain biking to a new level. But the humble tube is still with us and probably will be for some time still. Much like the way we look to Bryan Habanna for a match-saving try, we look to the spare tube to rescue a ride or a race when the tubless tyre suffers damage that prevents it from sealing.
TUBED TYRES We’re very much aware that standard tubed systems are prevalent on the majority of entry and mid-level bikes. The tubeless technology simply isn’t cost effective enough – yet – to spec tubeless systems on lower model bikes.
The two puncture-reducing options with standard tubed systems are: Tyre liners: These add another layer between tube and inner tyre. Tube sealant: Fills the tube with a sealant that fills small puncture holes
SLUDGE UNI SEAL: Contains fibres and can only be installed in wheels with a removable valve core. SLUDGE UNI SEAL is ideal for all tube-type or tubeless mountain bikes. Remove the valve core to add it to tube-type wheels. • Sludge UNI SEAL is supplied in a 200ml bottle sufficient for two wheels. RoAD SLUDGE: This product is specially developed for road bikes with Presta Valves. It contains microfibres which allow the sealant to pass through the valve. Owing to the microfibres, it is more effective for smaller punctures to the tube. Road SLUDGE also sorts out mountain bikes with Presta valve tubes - but bear in mind, it will only work for small punctures like thorns. • Road SLUDGE is supplied in a 100ml bottle sufficient for two road wheels or one mountain bike wheel. SLUDGE ALL TERRAIN: An all new sealant concept, SLUDGE ALL TERRAIN is a specially formulated non-sticky product, ideal for tubular tyres. Since it contains fibres, it can only be used with tubeless tyres and removable valve tubes. • SLUDGE ALL TERRAIN is supplied in a 100ml bottle sufficient for two road wheels or one mountain bike wheel.
www.sludgeproducts.com
quickly and effectively. Some brands sell tubes with sealant already
info@sludgeproducts.com
added. They cost more, but that cost includes greater peace of mind.
SLUDGE iS manUfactUrED LocaLLy, iS SoLD worLD wiDE anD iS backED by SchwaLbE anD continEntaL TREAD SPRING 2009 | 67
Masterclass
FRONT AND REAR A trend that’s becoming increaslingly popular is the fitting of two different models of tyre on the front and rear wheels. Some manufacturers have begun to design front and rear tyres in the same model range with differing, but appropriate tread patterns. The thinking is that front and rear wheels face different kinds of forces and therefore need to be best suited to manage those forces. You’ll find the front tyre super-grippy and the rear tyre super-fast, with just enough ‘bite’ to hook up appropriate traction on climbs. There are plenty of combination options. A respected mountain-bike-savvy bike shop will be able to advise you on the most popular combinations, or you can work out which is best for you; like deodorant choice, it’s mostly a personal preferance thing. Popular combinations: Maxxis Crossmark (rear) and Monorail (front); Specialized Fast Track (rear) and The Captain (front); Schwalbe Racing Ralph (rear) and Rocket Ron (front); Hutchinson Python (rear) and Cobra (front) and Continental Race King (rear) and Mountain King (front).
PRESSURES Tyre pressures are bit like music tastes – very personal. There’s still a large number of mountain bikers that inflate their tyres too hard. This comes from a road cycling mentality or the ‘rather too hard than too soft’ school of thought, largely found in newcomers to the sport. For starters, no mountain biker should really need to inflate his/her tyres to more than 3.2 bars (45 psi) – ever!
Quick tyre pressure guide: Tubed tyres: from 2.1 bars up to 3.2 bars Tubelss tyres: from 1.6 bars up to 2.7 bars Note: this is just a guide to give you a starting point. Heavier riders should be on the higher end of those presures, while lighter riders can inflate their tyres to the lower end. The lower the pressure of your tyres the better the grip and the more comfortable the bike becomes. A softer tyre does have a higher rolling resistance, but only really the super-fast racers should be concerned about this.
WHAT ABOUT 29-INCH TYRES? In the United States and to a certain extent, South Africa, biggerwheeled mountain bikes are gaining popularity. This wheel diameter is basically a 700c wheel (the same size as that of a road bike); and with
RockShox® BoXXer® - Be Faster It’s lighter, more precise and ultimately faster. Increased confidence and control with decreased weight. The most successful downhill fork of all time is now all new for the first time in its storied history. Lighter - Lighter is always better. BoXXer® achieves its light weight through a detailed study of where the actual forces are applied on a DH fork. By using the larger 35mm upper tubes to carry the strength, the steerer tube can be lightened. Maximizing the material properties of the upper tubes allows the tubes to be thin and strong. BoXXer’s new forged crowns use less material on the arms, while maintaining strength and stiffness by incorporating trussing. The new Maxle™ Lite DH pulls out 28g while being more robust than its predecessor. Add all this to a new spring and damper featuring aluminum shafting to create the ultimate light weight DH fork. More Precise - A new 35mm chassis creates the perfect stiffness balance for Downhill riding. Turn the bars and the BoXXer® will go where you want. Hit a bump and the fork will move into its suspension movement instead deflecting and providing too much feedback to your hands. Maxle™ Lite DH allows for greater expansion forces, creating a more robust junction from wheel to fork. The perfect balance equals more precision. Faster - Increased Control – The new Mission Control DH with Dual Flow adjust compression and rebound provides the ability to get Velcro® like front wheel traction. Dial in detailed settings for all riding condtions and styles through external adjustments for high and low speed compression and beginning and ending stroke rebound. Mission Control DH’s high displacement, shimmed valving allows for a butter smooth transition between circuits, giving the BoXXer® that “stuck to the ground” feeling. BlackBox® riders consistently ask for spring curves that have an increased ending ramp, helping them to keep from hitting bottom. To help the fastest riders in the world become faster the new BoXXer® has two new systems to create an increased ending ramp, air volume adjust on Solo Air™ and Drop Stop for the Team coil. Solo Air w/air volume adjust – by changing the volume of the solo air spring chamber the amount of ending ramp can be changed. Depressurize the solo air, turn the air volume adjust clockwise, re-pressurize and you’ve increased your ending ramp. DropStop – featured in the BoXXer® Team uses a MCU in the center of the spring to smooth the transition between the spring rate and the bottom out pad. Turn the adjuster on the top of the left leg and change how soon the DropStop kicks in.
the inclusion of the tyre the size gets bumped up to 29 inches compared to the the 26 inches on most mountain bikes. We’re not going into it in depth here because we’ve got it covered in an upcoming feature. Quick summary: Gary Fisher, one of the founding fathers of mountain biking, threw a 29-inch wheel into the mix about a decade ago, but it has only really recently been embraced and most major and many minor brands now have at least one 29-inch model.
Distributed by Cape Cycle Systems (Pty) Ltd in South Africa.
Initially tyres for 29-inch bikes were very limited and not too easy to obtain, but in the past few years, tyre manufacturers have responded
TREAD SPRING 2009
| 69
Masterclass
WIN
well and there are now a wide range of options with much-improved availability. Besides the diameter, the main difference between a 29-inch tyre and a 26-inch tyre that 29-inch tyres are normally wider to match the
WIN a Volcan FS1 bike plus Volcan’s pro-team backing for a year, including spares, team mechanic and race support all worth R100 000.
wider rim profile and the overall volume, which allows you to run even lower pressures than on a 26-inch tyre. Useful to know in an emergency: A 26-inch tube can work in a 29-inch tyre to get you home. Useful to know at a braai: Hutchinson was one of the first tyre manufacturers to embrace tubeless tyres for 29-inch bikes. Recommended: Panaracer does the Rampage model, which is a suparb all-condition tyre that comes in 2.35-inch width. We also like Specialized’s The Captain, which is also available as a tubeless version the 29-inch size.
WHEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE TYRES? Tyres generally need to be replaced under the following circumstances. • Whey they lose their grip • When the sidewalls look like they are starting to perish • When the knobs look very worn compared to what they looked like new • When you start puncturing regularly • When you start riding different terrain/conditions on a regular basis • When you want to try different front/rear combinations • When you feel the need to try a new tread or follow a trend
Creative? Obsessive? Discerning? We don’t care where your motivation comes from. All we want are your photos showing your devotion to mountain biking. You don’t have to own a Volcan to enter, you just need to think like a mountain biker with soul.
This is my Volcan
To find out more, visit www.treadmag.co.za
WHY DO TYRES COST SO MUCH? Compared to an average car tyre, a mountain bike tyre seems very dear. You need to remember that car tyres are generally made for driving on tar and some light gravel. They’re also made in massive volumes from relatively cheap materials. The research and development that goes into mountain bike tyres is still substantial, which translates to the increased cost. Bear in mind that there are three parts that make up the mountain bike tyre: the rubber outer tread, the inner carcass and of course the beaded core. Add to this the varied demands within mountain biking (bike type, rider type, terrain, climate), and you need a wider range of models made from varying compounds that achieve a combination between between light-weight, fast-rolling, high-traction, long-lasting and easy enough to fit, or repair. For example, Continental uses a technology called Dura Skin which is a patented polyamide layer to protect the tyre from sidewall cuts; unsurprisingly, the Dura Skin ‘fabric’ is not cheap. Schwalbe has a similar puncture protection belt called Smart Guard
www.volcanbikes.com 70 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
in its marathon and top-end tyre models. Furthermore, Continental has developed a technology called Gravity Arc, which allows the tyre
Masterclass Face it, if your tyre looks like this, your race is over. But what this cutaway shows is the various layers of different materials which have to come together perfectly to deliver a tyre which is tough, puncture resistant, grippy and light.
material to be naturally shaped during the manufacturing process. Some companies use more than one compound to increase the grip of the tyre which again pushes costs up. Specialized has a wellpublicised annual tyre-testing week with its star mountain bike racers in Stellenbosch each year. This adds real-condition feedback from racers that’s extremely valuable, but also carries some cost.
CONCLUSION Think about it for a bit. Every time you ride your mountain bike, you’re developing a relationship with traction. Whether you’re tackling a rocky climb, or speeding into a tight corner or pinning it down a wet descent, you’re placing a great deal of confidence in your tyres. Don’t take them for granted. Get to know them well, look after them, replace them when necessary. Your tyres are the thin (rubber) line between hurt and happiness; between pain and pleasure; between grimace and grin. They’re your ticket to traction satisfaction.
Keep the rubber side down! That’s something we all hope and pray for. And the rubber always plays a major part in ensuring that you are upright and not contemplating the world from unusual perspectives....
PHOTO: GARY PERKIN
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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My Fitness PHOTO: RONELLE RUST
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Ischen on a Mission
My Fitness
By Donovan Jackson
Against some proper competition, Ischen Stopforth emerged as the ladies victor in the MTN Marathon Series 2009, capping off a season in which she dominated the scene and was selected to represent the country at the Marathon World Championships. Highlights include winning the ladies section in races as diverse as the Attakwaskloof MTB Challenge, the ‘To Hell and Back’, the Hazyview Induna MTN Marathon, the Knysna Pick’n Pay Oyster festival MTB race, the Karoo to Coast and the Clarens MTN Marathon. That’s all the more impressive when bearing in mind that Doctor Stopforth works, full time. We asked Ischen:
D
o you follow a set training
then changed over to triathlon. However, for
Perceived Exertion) as a guide especially dur-
programme? If so, what are
the past five years I have not been competing
ing LT/VO2 sessions. I also use a Polar power
the key elements? It depends
in road running or triathlon events as the cy-
meter on my road bike, but haven’t got one
on the season; from December
cling and racing schedule just doesn’t allow
on MTB.
last year up to the Epic, the programme
enough time.
‘Technical’ is often a bit scary for the ladies,
consisted of building up base miles for a
You’re a doctor; does this knowledge give
especially those new to the sport. Are you
month, then adding power in January and
you an advantage in honing your physique?
good technically? Anything special you do to
then speed sessions by February to be race
Definitely. Having a good understanding of
improve skills?
ready in March. During the rest of the year
how the body functions physiologically and
No, I am not particularly good at technical
it was a challenge to follow a programme,
anatomically helps a lot to understand the
skills; that’s one of my weaknesses as a moun-
with a busy racing schedule of almost every
reason behind certain training methods,
tain biker, but I have improved a lot in the
weekend. With a full-time job, I have to plan
programmes and exercises; bike set-up and
past two years. When starting the sport, our
my week and train as time allows; I ended
posture; and of course avoiding injuries and
idea of it was a nice big dirt road! Lately, the
up being my own coach, basically listening
how to optimise recovery time in case of
emphasis is on singletrack and jeep track. The
to my body.
injuries. I spend a lot of time reading about
races have all become more and more tech-
Mountain bikers can benefit substantially
the latest in sports medicine and nutrition/
nical, especially over the past year. This has
from cross training. Do you include any in
supplementation; what really works and
helped me a lot in developing better skills as
your routine?
what is just a fad and what is banned! So
there is no time for hesitation or freezing in a
I run at least two to three times a week.
many athletes have no idea how important
race situation. I do include some skills sessions
That’s combined with some core and stabilis-
nutrition is and how the body works.
in my week and find that I am enjoying and
ing exercises and a bit of upper body strength
Understanding this definitely has been an
even prefer the more technical races. A word
training in the gym twice a week.
advantage.
of advice to the ladies: the more you do it the
Given that diversity of training do you put it
What kind of tech aids do you use to
easier/less scary it becomes and you’ll end up
to work outside of the bike, by competing
monitor progress and check what’s
enjoying it! And it is worthwhile getting some
in other sports?
potting?
help from a skills coach or someone with good
I used to do long distance running at varsity,
I mainly use HR monitor and RPE (Rating of
handling skills. TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 73
My Bike
Burry Stander’s Specialized S-Works Epic
A
t just 22 years old, he is already the most successful cross-country racer South Africa has ever produced. And while a well-known roadie once wrote something about it ‘not being about the bike’, Burry Stander has already earned a reputation for being very, very particular about the gear he uses. Meet Burry’s Specialized S-Works Epic.
Describe your bike? It’s a production S-Works
had used a fork similar to the Brain when I was
Epic. The only real difference between what we
a junior; Fox had a programme back then and I
[on the Specialized Factory Racing Team] have
loved it. So, I was very excited when I learned
and what you will get is that we have a braze-on
that Specialized was bringing out a similar con-
front derailleur. That’s because we use a SRAM
cept with the Futureshock.
Red derailleur with a double-chainring S-Works
Where do you reckon Specialized bike de-
crankset, fitted with RotorRings. I also use an
velopment will go in future? It’s an exciting
AX-Lite seatpost, which is not that common.
company to work with. For us, everything
Anything else different from a factory stan-
comes down to performance and Specialized
dard bike? [Laughs]. There is this perception,
very, very closely involves its athletes. While
rumours in the market that we race on some
the 2010 product range has just been launched,
kind of tricked out, special edition bikes with all
the engineers are already working on how they
kinds of serious modifications. Apart from riding
can improve on what is already the best. They
a front fork set up for 90mm of travel, and the
never stop and everything they make has ath-
bits mentioned above, I can assure you that my
lete input. We try everything and they review
bike is exactly the same as any S-Works you can
the comments we make and you see that in the
buy from a dealer.
product. The real goal, of course, is to make a
OK, so we kinda agree that it’s not about the
suspension bike which is as light and stiff as a
bike. That said, we’d like to know: What role
hardtail. I’m not going to say they’re there yet,
does the bike play in winning the World Cup
but Specialized is the closest and has a very
and U23 World Championships?
good compromise.
On the road, there’s a lot less difference that
Dual suss is making a big play, but Special-
can be achieved by the bike. You are, after all,
ized still makes some pretty handy hard tails.
riding on a smooth surface. On the MTB, the
What’s your take: is there any need for a hard
smallest thing - like tyre pressure - can change
tail these days? Or are they obsolete? My the-
the outcome dramatically. And if a tyre can
ory is if you’re riding a true MTB course, then a
make that much difference, think about the
hardtail will never be an advantage. But there
impact that more substantial settings, like the
are still courses, Madrid for example, where a
suspension, can have. That’s one of the things
hardtail might have given a little advantage. If
I have come to love about my S-Works. Set up
I had to choose, though, it will always be a full
properly, there’s no rider induced bob and that’s
suss. That may come as a surprise to some: I
really important for full suspension.
had always been a hardtail fan, but this year on
You’re talking about the Brain here. Describe
the Specialized, I’ve been blown away.
it for us in a few words. On a full-suss bike,
Are you a weight weeny? No. I’m interested
the Brain is everything. It makes the difference.
in performance, first. I’ll look at bearings,
There is one in the Futureshock front fork now
strength, and then take the lighter option only
too. From an XC racing perspective, you don’t
if it passes those evaluations.
have time to fiddle with lockouts, ever. The
So what does your rig weigh in at? Set up for
Brain does it for you and does it well, so you’re
XC racing, its 8.95 kilogrammes. For mara-
on the power right out of every corner and it’s
thons, 9.250; that extra weight comes from
all hitting the trail, not bouncing you around. I
tougher tyres.
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
PHOTO: DINO LLOYD TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 75
My Challenge
A life turning experience
In my very hazy and painful state, all I could say was, “Please don’t let Gill (my wife) know about this on the phone.”
Alive! But only just From this point my family stepped into overdrive to get me back in one piece. Barry, my brother in law, drove Gill down to Vereeniging, where I was treated initially, managing to arrive before the ambulance. At
By: Neil Frazer
the same time and with the same drive Alison
He’s known as ‘Steely Razor’ because of his toughness. But nothing could prepare the CycleLab mountain bike captain for the shocking challenge which would nearly end his life and call on every ounce of his legendary resolve.
and Andrew Mclean from Toyota Cyclelab set
L
and tied to the bed. But I was alive and
things in motion to help me. I was getting into serious personal favour debt. For the next week I was barely conscious, hooked up to morphine, filled with enough tubes and monitors to run an oil refinery determined to carry on being alive.
ife was going very smoothly for me. I
and shoulder, contusions to the heart and
had just finished my first Sani2C with
lungs, cuts requiring stitches in my hand,
A Toyota Cyclelab member, Dr Mark
the mad advocate Paulo Beltramo.
head and elbow, whiplash, nerve damage,
Eltringham, assembled the best possible
The race had gone very well but I
extensive damage to my auditory system (I
team to ensure that I could be successfully
was about to turn my life completely upside
am now deaf in one ear), bleeding on the
stuck back together.
down – literally and figuratively.
brain and the contrecoup (brain) injury.
It was a very painful period and progress
On my way home, with only a couple of
This was the biggie and cause for greatest
was agonisingly slow but eventually I was
hours of driving left, I did something that
concern. In all, a little more serious than my
discharged from ICU after I could lurch
would alter my life forever. In an incident I
usual Saturday morning tumble. I was such
around the nurses’ station. From there I went
barely remember, I rolled two tons of motor
a pathetic sight that the first person on the
for observation and yet more medications
vehicle six times (twice head over heels and
scene, an Australian woman doctor, promptly
and on to rehab in Rosebank.
four times barrel). More like a huge bloody
passed out.
Turning the corner
crash than an ‘incident’. The only thing I
Fortunately, I could not have chosen
One morning during rehab, I dragged myself
remember is the car tilting forward and
a better place to crash. I was ahead of
out of bed, took my meds, bathed for the
thinking: I am going to die and I am never
the crowd heading home from Sani2c and
first time, dressed myself with one arm (the
going to see my wife and kids again.
my highly branded and very visible car
other in a sling), plus the neck brace. I made
(
)
my way past the nurses’ protests and security
Truly miraculously, I did not die. The car was a complete and utter write-off. Every single piece of electronic equipment in the car stopped working. Four bikes disintegrated and lay splintered on the tar along with roof racks, bike racks, roof boxes and some very squashed luggage. Painfully, I somehow dragged myself from the car onto the tar where a large crowd was gathering. Truly miraculously, I did not die. The car
was recognised by everyone behind me.
guards outside of Rosebank Clinic to wait in
was a complete and utter write-off. Every
All stopped to help. Denise Drew to help
the dark for the morning club road ride to
single piece of electronic equipment in the
me initially, Cindi Kirby eventually driving
come by. I was determined to reconnect with
car stopped working. Four bikes disintegrated
the ambulance to escape my screamed
‘My World’. Eventually, the ride appeared
and lay splintered on the tar along with roof
obscenities while I begged for painkillers.
and I shouted as I saw Andrew McLean up
racks, bike racks, roof boxes and some very
The Jackson brothers (not related to Michael)
front. First he waved, then wheeled with
squashed luggage. Painfully, I somehow
organised help and the Meyer brothers carted
the rest of the group to greet me. I was
dragged myself from the car onto the tar
away the carnage of the car wreck. My two
overwhelmed. I still remember the faces –
where a large crowd was gathering.
fellow Toyota Cyclelab race team members,
Andrew, Rory, Pieter, Jade, Derrick, Mike,
Amongst my injuries – besides the few
Andrew Currie and Glenn Williams, came
and Kevin. One of my happiest days and a
minutes of unconsciousness – were three
into ICU with me; though used to the sight
positive turning point.
fractured vertebrae, multiple broken ribs
of me bleeding, this was still an impressive
and sternum, a dislocated and broken arm
act of friendship.
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
From here I was on my way back – slowly. Medication has affected me badly and the
process has frequently frustrated me. My ace in the pack has been Amy Lichtenstein of ALB Biokineticists. She is at the Cyclelab Technogym Wellness Centre and has been responsible for my speedy rehabilitation and fast cycling progress. My orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Charles Breckon, was also fantastic and feels that I am three months ahead of schedule. Best of all, I am up and riding again with all the grand mates at Toyota Cyclelab – the fact that I recently slammed into a wire fence at high speed is another story. I am riding again and have entered for the 2010 Sani2C and the Cape Epic (with cancer fighter, Mark Thijs) and I will race next year like a man possessed. I have a huge amount to be thankful for. I received brilliant medical treatment and my injuries are almost a thing of the past. The only lasting effect is deafness in my left ear (not bad for driving with Gill). The specialists who treated me were exceptional but I hated the ICU nurses, the radiologists, the ‘crap for brains’ psychologist who told me missing the Epic was not serious and anyone who resembled an occupational therapist. On my return to work, one colleague told me, “I prayed a lot for you, now don’t go and bugger it up.” Heidi from PeptroPro ensured I had enough protein to gain weight and strength ASAP. Stewart Miller ensured I had a new bike to ride on (Volcan FS1 – a beautiful Swiss Miss). My friends were out of this world in their support to both my family and me. My family was fantastic (Kirsten and Barry especially) while my parents spent hours every day at the hospital. My wife was as strong as a lion and coped very well with me while keeping the children, Jack and Jemma, steady. They were little stars and handled the hospital episode with bravery and strength and some horrified fascination. They still do not like me going away but they know cycling is in my blood and theirs. I missed birthdays, concerts, races and many other events. But I have been given a second chance and I cannot squander the opportunity. Life is good and some things, like this crash, really only need to be done once.
PHOTO: WARREN VAN RENSBURG
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 77
Racer with Soul
Marathon Monarch Even by his standards, ‘King’ Kevin Evans has had a pretty good season. With double digit race wins, a top ten at the Marathon World Championships – the highest placing ever by a South African – and the retention of his National Marathon Series title for the fifth consecutive year, it’s been satisfying. But it wasn’t all plain sailing. By Donovan Jackson
78 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
“
There were plenty of ups and downs,” says Evans, nodding to a bit of a slow start to 2009. “However, in the end, I managed to finish it off really well.” Clearly not a man who dwells on the past, Evans looks to MTN Energade team owner Doug Ryder for the lowdown. “According to the boss and ‘statistician’, across road and mountain, there were 16 wins, 9 second places and 3 thirds,” he chuckles. This despite the added pressure of becoming a family man for the first time with the birth of daughter Ruby. Erm...road? Yes, Evans is a pretty handy racer on a road bike, and gives and indication that this will receive more attention next year. But the real highlight of 09 was his eighth place at a strife-torn Marathon Worlds in Austria, the highest placing ever achieved by a South African at this event “It was my sixth time competing; I was really focused on a top ten. Last year I came close, but bombed out in the last hour and finished 14th...” Disappointing, but 2009 made up for it on what Evans describes as arguably the toughest marathon course to date. “It was an incredible feeling to cross that line and achieve my goal. That was all made possible by a lot of support from family through to
sponsors and friends,” he says. Evans partially puts his success to the seasonlong MTN National Marathon series which saw him retaining his familiar orange jersey for what is now half a decade. “This year the MTN series saw the introduction of the first ‘Ultra’ events [100km and more, instead of the usual 75km] which played a huge helping hand in preparing for the endurance at Worlds,” he explains.
Onwards and upwards The year 2010 is to be a special year for sport in South Africa. Evans intends to make it special for him, too. The ABSA Cape Epic looms as the ultimate goal for any MTB professional and it is one which he believes he is ready for. That means finding the right partner, following David George’s recent illness. But Team MTN Energade has that sewn up. “We’ve just confirmed that I’ll be racing with Austrian and European champion, Alban Lakata, to race for the overall victory. Alban is an extremely quick technical rider, but as he showed at World’s this year (Lakata was the silver-medallist), he can also climb. The team dynamics should be interesting; he is just as motivated as I am to try win the Epic.”
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Winner with Soul
It’s ALL about the Mojo
T
he long-awaited draw for a prize which we confidently punted as a prize for ‘real’ mountain bikers took place in Bryanston
on the evening of 1 December. Down here
For those of you who feel you’ve lost your Mojo, we understand. And you have. But spare a thought for our winner, Leanie Hartman, who walks away with not only the fully-specced, top-of-the-range Ibis Mojo, but a whole collection of totally cool gadgets, too.
at TREAD, we were joking about how one makes 699 mountain bikers say a rude word: the answer? Give the 700th one a fully-kitted out, highly desirable, full carbon race bike. The first number drawn by Victor Momsen was 210, corresponding to the name of a now-very-delighted Leanie Hartman. Just for everyone who didn’t go home with a whole lotta Mojo, here’s a quick recap of what Leanie gets: • The Ibis Mojo SL, equipped with SRAM X-0, ZTR wheels and a DTSwiss XMC carbon fork. Total value: R88000. This bike has some unique characteristics: Victor tells us it is the lightest per millimetre of travel you’ll get anywhere. With 5.5 inches front and rear, this is a rig ready to soak up serious trails. • A Thule Euroway 947 triple bike rack worth R6000 • Lezyne parts and accessories worth R4000 Pictured is the ever-cheerful Victor Momson of Ibis Bicycles and Sean Badenhorst, your esteemed TREAD magazine editor. Big thanks to the following sponsors for their commitment and for sharing our vision: • Victor Momson – Ibis Bicycles, Stan’s wheels, Titec parts, Lezyne tools and accessories • Graham Hall – SRAM components • Douglas Paterson – DT Swiss fork • William Tyson – Thule bike rack And of course, thank you to all who showed confidence in TREAD and subscribed. As you will have seen on page 40, we’ve put together a brand-new, really cool subscriber competition, geared specifically for mountain bikers with soul... If you’re not Leanie, better luck with this one!
80 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Race with Soul
82 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Race with Soul
Cape Pioneer Trek By Donovan Jackson
If you have been hiding under a rock in the Karoo, you’ll know all too well what the Cape Pioneer Trek is all about. But, for the rest of us, it’s an event new on the calendar which takes you through some truly spectacular terrain in the Southern Cape. TREAD went along to join in the fun.
PHOTO: Karin Schermbrucker TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 83
Race with Soul
F
irst of all, the organisers are
lube, a Helly Hansen top, a spare tube and
not new to the game. Dryland is
tyre levers from Continental and a very
behind the Attekwas Challenge, the
generous helping of Gu for the 608km that
Chandelier Marathon and Red Stone
awaited. (They also got a lekker copy of
Mountain Bike and Trail Running weekend.
TREAD to keep them interested at night!)
Boss Henco Rademeyer has an obvious (and
All very useful stuff.
widely recognised, almost feared) reputation
A champion in our midst
for insisting on excellence. That means the
In a coup for the race organisers, one of the
organisation, even on this first Pioneer, was
best-known – and loved – mountain bikers of all
executed with almost military precision. This
time joined the relatively small field to race
is something that all competitors appreciate
with his manager. Multiple World Champion,
greatly; when you finish a gruelling stage,
Christoph Sauser, took to the start line with
the last thing you want to deal with is food
Specialized marketing manager Bobby Behan,
shortages, queues for toilets and showers or
providing a level of glamour to the race in
difficulty in finding your luggage.
his typical understated way which completely
Riders got off to a good start with an
lacks any pretension, airs or graces.
impressive goodie bag which contained,
But it is all about the bike ride – and this is
among other things, Sludge sealant, Squirt
where the Pioneer really impressed.
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Race with Soul The Character
Like any great race, there have to be characters. In the case of the Pioneer, that character is the curiously named Katot. Katot is the epitome of the ‘camel man’; he drives a beat up Land Rover, cruises around barefoot most of the time, and is a salt of the earth Afrikaner who exudes old fashioned hospitality and values. He is also the man behind the spectacular route which took riders through what this writer certainly considers some of the best terrain for mountain biking: the Klein and Groot Karoo. In a quick chat, Katot revealed that his name means ‘billycan’, and is a ‘noemnaam’ he picked up as a child from his father.
PHOTO: Karin Schermbrucker TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Race with Soul PHOTO: Karin Schermbrucker
Pioneer or Epic? It’s almost inevitable that the Cape Pioneer Trek will be compared with the ABSA Cape Epic. That’s despite the organisers, Dryland, shying away from the notion. But, since TREAD is a crowd which has done a couple of Epics, let’s take a look at what the inaugural Pioneer offered, in contrast to its more famous cousin. Pioneer 2009
Epic 2009
Format:
6 day race
8 day race
Distance:
608km
685km
Climbing:
12 000m
14500m
Entry fee:
R11 800
R16 800
Field:
200 riders
1200 riders
Full board:
Yes (tented ccommodation, breakfast, lunch,
No (tented acommodation, breakfast, supper).
supper, snacks in between) Point to point:
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Yes, every stage ended in a different town.
TREAD SUMMER 2009
No, two nights spent in three locations.
Race The route
nearly struck Sauser on the hand) and
A memorable event
Tracing a broad circle, first towards
compounded by a block headwind, was
Engaging closely with riders in the field
the North East and then bending South
rewarded by traversing some of the most
confirmed what TREAD already
West, the Cape Pioneer Trek kicks off in
stunning fynbos and remote, rugged terrain
suspected. This is a race with soul, where
Oudtshoorn. Stage 1 over 107km took
available anywhere in the world. The
world champion Sauser and teammate
riders up nearly 2000m of climbing to
hardship of a stage which covered 103km in
Behan mixed freely with the average
Calitzdorp; from there on to the dusty
a winning time of 5h36 (backmarkers were
riders. A race where friendships are forged,
enclave of Prince Albert via the spectacular
out there for over 12 hours) was rewarded
not just between riders, but also between
(and back breaking) Swartberg pass. The
by this unique experience.
organisers who clearly share a passion for
third stage ended in De Rust, a tiny town
The brutality of the fourth stage was
mountain biking which translates into an
through which you’d usually blow on the
alleviated by a relatively easy fifth stage
event they are proud of and one in which
push to Oudtshoorn by road; here, after
into George, providing a stark contrast
riders can experience the best of a sport
enjoying perhaps some of the sweetest
of the arid interior with the lush coastal
that throws up an awful lot of good.
20km of singletrack ever served up in the
forests. Courtesy of keen mountain biker
The TREAD verdict? We’ll be back
Karoo, riders camped in and around the
and Taste Holdings CEO Carlo Gonzaga,
next year. And we strongly recommend you
churchyard. Truly a beautiful experience.
riders were also treated to one of the most
get a dose of that Platteland hospitality
Probably the queen of all stages, and
spectacular (and unusual) sights of the
and Karoo mountain biking bliss, too.
tougher than anything ever served up in
race: a bevy of beauties serving up fresh,
the ABSA Cape Epic, Stage 4, took the
hot Scooters pizza. Sauser demonstrated
field through the Kamanassie and on to
his champion pedigree by immediately
Uniondale. This was an eventful one: the
posing for pictures with the lovelies!
front runners spent 2hrs 30min on the
From George, the final short, but
first 30km. The extreme toil, punctuated
sharp stage, took the field back over the
by at least two puff adders (one of which
escarpment to Oudtshoorn.
The inaugural Cape Pioneer Trek was won by the Memory Foundation duo of Johnny Kritzinger and Erik Kleynhans.
WE RODE SO GOOD BECAUSE WE ATE SO GOOD! Scooters Pizza is proud to be associated with the inaugural Cape Pioneer. Congratulations to everyone who participated. You are HOT, TASTY, FAST!
BUY 2 LARGE MARGHERITA PIZZAS WITH YOUR CHOICE OF ANY ONE TOPPING PER PIZZA ONLY
Race
Isuzu 3 Towers Stage Race: Marvellous Mankele By Donovan Jackson
Stage racing is all the rage and there’s damn good reason for that. It’s just so much fun – and what Mankele served up in its first such event, the Isuzu Three Towers Stage Race, confirmed much of what we at TREAD already know (and love). That ‘Moompoomerlanger’ is one of the top destinations for mountain biking in this country, that Mankele is a great facility which you (yes, YOU) really should go and spend more time at, and that a three-stage race is nqa!
A
lmost anywhere you are near the Lowveld means there are going to be tough climbs; similar to the Cape, in Mpumalanga though, you can expect very long, very steep climbs (KZN, by contrast, tends to have short, sharp climbs). What’s really interesting is how the character of the riding differs quite substantially between provinces: the loooong climbs you’ll experience in the Cape Pioneer or Cape Epic are rocky and dry, out East, there is always the chance of mud and clay while the foliage tends towards lush forests. Luckily, the rain stayed away this time. Each day of the event kicked off with a long, hard climb which sorted out the field nicely; the first day covered 75km and was criticised by some as lacking singletrack (owing to a last minute change of heart from a local landowner), but subsequent days quickly made up for it. Highlights of the second stage of 80km included not only a dash through a river above a waterfall, but a very good dose of the trails for which Mankele is legendary. It also had a very good dose of the hills that make Mpumalanga legendary. But, as we all know, what goes up must come
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
down, so there was also a good deal of frenetic descending to keep the adrenalin rushing. Described as flat out fun, a promise on which the organisers delivered, the highlight of the final day is probably the extreme downhill through the Sudwala caves just ten clicks from the finish. Very technical and rocky, it claimed at least two victims: Jeffrey Kriel, a reformed roadie racing in TREAD colours, smashed a collarbone, while Jose de Sousa smashed his scapula. All this on a section signposted (ironically) ‘Speed Kills’. At an entry fee of R3600 (full board), the Isuzu Three Towers race is accessible to most and is just as good for those looking to get a first taste of stage racing as it is for the more seasoned campaigners. Just be careful, though. The folks at Mankele did warn that the last 20km of that last day will make you want to quit your job and take up mountain biking full time. They are right. (And we don’t have any vacancies over here at TREAD!) The DCM Chrome duo of Brandon Stewart and Max Knox won the Isuzu Three Towers stage race.
The dense bush and MTB-specific trails made for a memorable experience for all participants.
Race
Photo: Aubrey JONSSON TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 89
Race
Berg & Bush: Blow your MTB mind
endless vistas so beautiful they look painted. If the beauty of a Berg descent doesn’t quite float your boat (weirdo), then the 60km of Day 2 serves up what must perhaps be some of the most exciting, flowing singletrack ever seen in any race. We mean that, and we race a lot. Through the aptly named Paradise Road and some fairly challenging, but fast and
By Donovan Jackson
B
engaging rocky stuff, to bombing it cheetah-
ack in 2007 the Natro Berg & Bush
The name is all but the same with the addition
style through savannah and acacia trees, this
was my second ever mountain
of a single word: Descent.
is a stage that will blow you away. You’ll grin like an idiot, whoop like a ten-year-old kid. It
bike race. That could very well be
The extra stage is a thrill-filled plummet
among the key reasons why the
down the Drakensberg escarpment, running
sport quickly became a passion. So it was with
some 80km from the foothills of the Berg near
And when you hit the 200-metre long
a great deal of excitement that TREAD noted
Little Switzerland and through some truly awe-
zip line over the venerable Tugela, you’ll be
the introduction of a slightly longer, three day
inspiring terrain. You know the sort, which gets
amazed at the innovation that Gary Green has
Berg & Bush in addition to its two-day sibling.
you singing ‘In a Big Country’ in your head....
put into a race which he clearly regards as his
is that good.
pride and joy. Before tackling the final day, take the trip up to the historic Spionkop, the site of a Boer War clash in 1900. History buff Green brings the battle to life with his colourful description of the action, while around you soldiers lie in their graves. And what a last day it is. It’s ‘just’ 50km, but the charge through Spionkop Nature Reserve is punctuated with an astounding array of wildlife; they had to chase a rhino out of the way before the field made its way through. Zebra, giraffe, many species of buck, galloping alongside you. Truly spectacular. On making your way down to the dam’s edge, pick a fast speedboat for the crossing; local farmers and watersports enthusiasts are on hand to buzz you to the other side where the racing resumes. That takes you on the brutal 22% gradient to the summit of Spionkop...and then along its escarpment, an exhilarating section of flowing singletrack right on top of the world. It’s the first year for the Descent, but expect this race to become as wildly popular as its sister event, the ‘regular’ two day Berg & Bush which takes place on the preceding weekend. The entry fee is not cheap at R6270.00 (full board from the end of day 1 camping on the banks of the Tugela). But is it worth it? Sell your mother in law if you have to*. It is. *No, we’re not buying. The Natro Berg & Bush Descent was won by Merlyn Jackson (Dunkeld Cycles) and Greg Anderson (Cycle Lab). Photo: KELVIN TRAUTMAN
90 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
Race Photo: KELVIN TRAUTMAN
TREAD SUMMER 2009
| 91
Calendar
RACE DIARY
JANUARY
Schedule of South African mountain bike events Place
Date
Race
Dicipline GAUTENG
Distance
Contact Person
Contact
Pretoria North, SVJ Farm
Sat 9th Jan
AmRic-SVJ Series
XCM
30km/15km
Richard Sutton
082-9018703 www.amric.co.za 082-4905061 079-8785379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za 079-8785379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za
Pretoria, Babas Lodge Krugersdorp
Sun 10th Jan Wed 13th Jan
Babas Lodge #1 Moonlight Series
XCM XCO
65km/35km Night Race One hour (1.6km lap)
Andre de Beer Lynne Venter
Krugersdorp
Wed 27th Jan
Moonlight Series
XCO
Night Race One hour (1.6km lap)
Lynne Venter
Port Shepstone
Sun 10th Jan
XCM
Thomas Blom
072-9572220
Pietermaritzburg
Sun 24th Jan
Bobby’s Cycles 4-Hour Team Relay Momentum Health XC Series #1 Ladies Only Challenge Greg Minnaar Mongoose DH Series
XCO
Allegra Wykerd
083-2338768
XCM DHI
Hill2Hill Events Brian Dinkelman
083-4470697 084-6931502
Piet Du Toit
082-5534191
Hennie Verster
083-7021932
KWAZULU-NATAL
Pietermaritzburg, World’s View
Sun 31st Jan Sun 31st Jan
FREE STATE Bloemfontein, Engen Pellissier
Wed 13th Jan - Sat 16th Jan Sat 23rd Jan
Bybeltrap
XCM Stage Race
290km
Engen Pellissier
XCM
Bruintjies Hoogte
XCM Stage Race
Christie Botha
082-6592988
Border Provincial Cross Country Fattracks EP Cross Country
XCO
Antoinette Harding
XCO
EPMBA/Cyclo Pro
083-4411108 www.amatolamtb.co.za 083-2624392 www.fattracks.co.za
EASTERN CAPE Thur 21st Jan - Sat 23rd Jan Sat 23rd Jan Port Elizabeth, Elliot Centre
Sun 24th Jan
Oudtshoorn, Chandelier
Sat 16th Jan
MTN Attakwas XCM #1
XCM
135km/50km
Avendurance
Franschoek
Sat 16th Jan
Franschoek Lions/Porcupine MTB Challenge Hillbillies Summer Series #1 Langenhoven Gymnasium 24 Hours of Wiesenhof
XCM
40km/25km/10km
Lodine Maaske
WESTERN CAPE
Sun 17th Jan Oudtshoorn
Sat 23rd Jan
Stellenbosch
Sat 23rd Jan - Sun 24th Jan Sat 30th Jan
Oudtshoorn
XCM
Rob Lotter
XCM
74km/40km/15km
XCM 24-Hour Race
To Hell and Back - Oneday all the way
XCM Stage Race
Sun 31st Jan
Hillbillies Summer Series #2
XCM
Barberton, Barberton High School
Sat 30th Jan
MTN Barberton XCM #2
XCM
Polokwane
Sat 23rd Jan
Salojee’s Makhulu 5
XCM
Essie Esterhuyse Dirtopia
120km/70km/25km
EcoBound
Rob Lotter
083-3272499 www.advendurance.com 082-3722333 www.info@lacotte.co.za 073-1975161 www.hillbillies.co.za 084-2791065 021-8844752 www.dirtopia.co.za 083-5089642 www.tohellandback. co.za 073-1975161 www.hillbillies.co.za
MPUMALANGA Advendurance
083-3272499 www.advendurance.com
Eugene Laubscher
083-2559405
LIMPOPO
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TREAD SUMMER 2009
Calendar
FEBRUARY Place
Date
Race
Dicipline GAUTENG
Distance
Contact Person
Johannesburg
Sat 6th Feb
MTN SA Cup XCO #1
XCO
Advendurance
Kempton Park, Emperors Palace Johannesburg
Sat 6th Feb
XCM
Sun 7th Feb
Emperors Palace MTB Classic MTN SA Cup DHI #1
DHI
Pretoria North, SVJ Farm
Sun 7th Feb
AmRic-SVJ Series
XCM
30km/15km
Richard Sutton
Krugersdorp
Wed 10th Feb
Moonlight Series
XCO
Night Race One hour (1.6km lap)
Lynne Venter
Babas Lodge Krugersdorp
Sun 14th Feb Wed 24th Feb
Babas Lodge # 2 Moonlight Series
XCM XCO Night Race
65km/35km One hour (1.6km lap)
Andre de Beer Lynne Venter
Port Elizabeth Molteno
Sat 6th Feb Sat 13th Feb
Herald VW MTB Classic Stormberg MTB Race
XCM XCM
85km 85km/40km/10km
Shane Bradfield Annie de Wet
Molteno
Sun 14th Feb
Border Provincial
XC XCO
Annie de Wet
East London, Pine Forest
Sun 14th Feb
Club Race # 2
XCO
Amatola MTB Club
East London
Sat 20th Feb
Garmin MTB Challenge
XCM
40km/20km
Cycling News Advendurance
Contact 083-3272499 www.advendurance.com 011-6622494 www.cyclingnews.co.za 083-3272499 www.advendurance.com 082-9018703 www.amric.co.za 079-8785379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za 082-4905061 079-8785379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za
EASTERN CAPE
65km/30km
Justin Price
074-1144811 082-5589000 www.entrytime.co.za 082-5589000 www.entrytime.co.za 071-1405549 www.amatolamtb.co.za 043-7263116
Wimple Geyer
082-8998970
Louis Lategan
082-3373811
Rob Lotter
073-1975161 www.hillbillies.co.za 021-8723147 alexvds@iafrica.com 072-6252663 www.hillbillies.co.za 083-7524554 johanm@pacmar.co.za
NORTHERN CAPE Kimberley
Sat 27th Feb
Argus MTB/Itec
XCM
WESTERN CAPE Oudtshoorn, Laerskool Wesbank
Sat 13th Feb
Sun 21st Feb
Ton’s Sport/Coetzee & Van der Berg Hillbillies Summer Series Final Bouckaert Soenen MTB
XCM
49km/20km
Dick During
Sat 27th Feb
Oubos MTB Challenge
XCM
45km/15km
Kevin Cushion
Sat 27th Feb
Wilde Fruit Cycle Day MTB
XCM
50km/20km
Johan Murray
Sat 6th Feb
Parys Island Dirtmax Series # 1 Sports Tech Race
XCM
60km/30km/10km/5km
Belinda Basson
083-5958439
XCM
30km/60km
W Maree
083-2877189 072-1252382 www.golovane.co.za 076-6557080 www.wartburg.co.za 083-7447103 www.maxcluer.com 083-6598605 w w w. j o w e t t s c y c l e s . co.za 084-8931502
Sun 21st Feb
XCM
60km/30km/15km
XCO
FREE STATE Parys, Shiloh Shalom
Sat 20th Feb
KWAZULU-NATAL Ballito, Collisheen Estate
Sun 7th Feb
Golovane Xplore
XCM
85km (2-rider team)
Hill2Hill Events
Wartburg, Wartburg School Blythedale, Blythedale Estate Pietermaritzburg, World’s View
Sat 13th Feb
Wartburg Spar MTB Classic Blythedale MTB Classic
XCM
45km/19km/10km
Marie du Toit
XCM
40km/25km
Max Cluer
Sun 14th Feb Sun 21st Feb
Momentum Health XC Series # 2
XCO
Jowetts Cycles Events
Pietermaritzburg, Cascades
Sun 28th Feb
Greg Minnaar Mongoose DH Series
DHI
Brian Dinkelman
Sabie, York Timbers
Sat 27th Feb
MTN Sabie Classic - SA National Marathon
XCM
MPUMALANGA 100km/70km/40km/15km
Advendurance
083-3272499 www.advendurance.com
TO EVENT ORGANISERS Listing of events in this calendar is free but dependent on timing and complete event information. Send your complete event info to info@treadmag.co.za. Event advertising can also be placed. Call 082 8761672 for rates.
TO MOUNTAIN BIKERS This calendar was compiled with information available to us and we assume it is correct. However, we cannot be held responsible for any errors and recommend you confirm event details with the organiser if you’re uncertain. TREAD SUMMER 2009
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Classifieds
TO ADVERTISE IN TREAD MAGAZINE, CONTACT: Donovan Jackson | Publisher | Email donovan@treadmag.co.za | Cell +27 82 495 7828 | Tel +27 11 675 3460 | Fax +27 86 697 1106 | www.treadmag.co.za DIETETICS
BICYCLE SHOP
Dr Christa North
BICYCLE SALES SERVICING ACCESSORIES
PhD (Nutrition)
Registered Dietician (SA & UK)
Cell 073 182 4411 Tel 011 886 3690 Fax 086 502 4717 cnorth@absamail.co.za
Tel:+ 27 11 341 0627
www.dunkeldcycles.co.za
19 Riesling Crescent, Hurlingham Manor TOYOTA MTN CYCLE PARK
• Normal opening times: Dawn til dark – will vary according to season • Night racing will be held regularly at the floodlit BMX track • Night riding will be scheduled occasionally on the trails • Secure parking For more information, visit www.cyclelab.com Riaan La Cock 083 725 BIKE (2453) cyclepark@cyclelab.com
• Toilets and change rooms with showers to be added by Phase 2 • Seattle Coffee Company for refreshments and nourishment • Shimano Tech Centre for bike repairs and adjustments • Cycle Lab satellite store for bike consumables • Motorex bike wash
TREAD SUMMER 2009
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(
Blend
)
Some facetime with real mountain bikers you’d never normally read about.
LAUREN GOULDING
A
ge, location, day job: 31, Joburg, quantity surveying industry You’re pretty involved in sport, but how did you get into MTB? I
was introduced to adventure racing (AR) first and then I rode MTB trails and races as part of training, so it started there. OK, let’s talk adventure racing. Is that like the Cape Epic with more pain? I’m yet to muster up the courage to spend that amount of money on the Epic, but AR varies from sprint to multiday, non-stop races – the longer the better for me. AR includes mountain biking, trail running, hiking, rope work and paddling – throw in sleep deprivation and navigation and it makes for a wicked mix. A quick list of bikes you’ve owned so far:
Giant Boulder and my current bike, an Orbea Quadro. Tell us a bit about your bike setup: My bike is in need of serious upgrading. My LBS (Dunkeld Cycles) has said there’s no more they can do for her. Five years of AR have taken their toll. In AR bikes get thrown over fences (and occasionally off cliffs), they get swum through dams and rivers and dragged under bushes and through mud, so there’s really not much hope for them. I have a hardtail with a Rock Shox Judy fork, SRAM X7 components throughout and Avid V-brakes. Which is your favourite trail? I recently did a six-day multisport race along the Garden Route (www.southernstorm.co.za) and got to ride parts of the well known Harkerville and Homtini Trails and parts of the Knysna Forest trails – all spectacular! Local trails include Groenkloof, Breedts Nek and surrounds and old Joburg faithfuls, Northern Farm and Braamfontein Spruit. What song plays in your head when you’re cranking up a hill? I always find the one I dislike the most popping into my head at the most inappropriate times – so it depends. When you’re 40 hours-plus into a race, it’s enough to drive you mad. Beverage of choice after a ride? A Castle Lite or two. Any special supplements you take for riding? I use USN’s Enduro Sport and Cyto Power with PeptoPro Protein for recovery. Otherwise my normal trail mix and Vooma/Enervit
gels
depending on the length of the ride/race. Is it all about the bike? It’s never all about the PHOTO: Warren van Rensburg
96 |
TREAD SUMMER 2009
bike; it’s about your attitude!