TREAD Issue 8

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M O U N TA I N B I K I N G W I T H S O U L

?!

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29-INCH WHEELS Is bigger really better?

Have we been riding the wrong size all along?

S re peci p orta

TESTED • • • • • •

Giant XTC29 1 Niner E.M.D GT Zaskar 9R PRO Specialized Marathon Epic 29 2011 Serfas XCR 3 2011 SCOTT Scale 3

Chain lube shootout 8 lubricants tested in SA conditions

ISSUE 8 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

NEW SECTION

STARTING OUT

REVEALED:

Confidence-building tips for newcomers Andrew McLean’s training regime Greg Minnaar’s hot new ride The mountain biker’s best weapon ISSUE 8 Sept/Oct 2010 R36.95 (incl VAT)

www.treadmag.co.za

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TREAD

!

M O U N TA I N B I K I N G W I T H S O U L

TODD WELLS ON HIS SEA OTTER WINNING STUMPJUMPER 29ER

O E W T E E IBE FR N SCR FORNSIDE B D ILS I SU A DETA E R

T

BUT 29-INCH WHEELS AREN’T ENOUGH. SO WE MADE THE STUMPJUMPER THE LIGHTEST, STIFFEST AND MOST AGILE 29ER OUT THERE, WITH SHORT CHAINSTAYS, LOW BB, STEEP HEAD TUBE AND CUSTOM ROCKSHOX FORK. SEE TODD’S WINNING PACKAGE AT SPECIALIZED-SA.CO.ZA

TREAD

IMAGINE THE CONFIDENCE AN EXTRA THREE INCHES WILL GIVE YOU

SKILL – Drop-offs made easy TRAILS – three fresh trails

TOP RIDERS | BEST RACES | SKILLS | TRENDS | GEAR | NUTRITION 8/10/10 2:47:55 PM


Contents

REMARK-ABLE “I’ve been riding both wheel sizes this year, and find it far easier and more natural going from a 26-inch bike to a 29inch bike. The other way around just feels like the opposite of progression, which should be an important message.” – Burry Stander ‘Make Da Circle Beega’, Page 32 “Climbing the hills after racing down a glacier is pretty nuts. Your body is in such lactic acid shock from the glacier, the really technical descents and the frenzy of all the people, so when you hit the climbs, it is just such a struggle. A definite must for anyone who loves to ride!” – Anka Martin ‘A beer with…’, Page 15 “I fully believe in function over form, which is why I get annoyed when I read the online MTB fashion police telling me that you can’t/shouldn’t ride with bar-ends on riser bars. It took some searching but I’ve found why there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it, and it is, in fact, better than not having them.” – Barry McCallum ‘Media’, Page 14 “The next morning was my coldest, leaving Rhodes before sunrise it was –10 deg C and later it dropped to –14! I couldn’t feel my fingers and my water bottle and hydration tube froze solid. I actually looked forward to pushing my bike up the steep hills now as it gave me the chance to warm up…” – Glenn Harrison ‘My Challenge’, Page 82 “About 60 % of my training is on my road bike. Very little of my training is done on an indoor trainer; I really do not enjoy it. I like to meet my mates and ride outside, even on a bitterly cold winter morning I prefer to be riding outdoors than indoors.” – Andrew McLean ‘My Fitness’, Page 78

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ’10

CONTENTS 4 8

SOUL PROVIDER Editor’s welcome

DROOL Cool rides in a great country 10 CLUTTER Dept. of Current Affairs

20 STOKE

22

FUEL Good fats and bad

TRAIL 26 Review: Vootrekker Monument, Gauteng

28

Review: King’s Kloof MTB, Gauteng

30 All Out Adventures: KwaZulu-Natal

FEATURE

32

29ers – From Fad to Future?

REGULARS 42 Industry: Who is behind Dryland?

47

Starting out – Removing the mystery from MTB

BIKES & GEAR

51

Gear trends for 2011

and SCOTT

59 64

Tested – 29ers from GT, Giant, Niner and Specialized This vs That – Lubes under scrutiny

69

Reviewed: Hot gear and accessories

PEOPLE

78 80

MY FITNESS Andrew McLean

MY BIKE Greg Minnaar

54 Tested – 2011 hardtails from Serfas

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Contents

That’s what E.M.D stands for – unique name for a unique bike. See the Niner review on Page 61 PHOTO: CRAIG DUTTON

82

MY CHALLENGE Glenn Harrison

EVENTS

87 90

Nissan Series

ON THE COVER A Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29er and a Specialized Rockhopper Expert size up. Photo: CRAIG DUTTON

Fox Mankele Avalanche

93 Calendar of races for September and October 2010

96

BLEND Paul Katzeff

YOUR TREAD SUBSCRIPTION FREE?! Page 38-39 TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Soul Provider PHOTO: DINO LLOYD

Editor: SEAN BADENHORST sean@treadmag.co.za Contributing Editors BARRY McCALLUM, ANDY ELLIS, TIM BRINK Contributing Photographers GREG BEADLE, AUBREY JONSSON, WARREN VAN RENSBURG, RONELLE RUST, DominIc Barnardt, Dion Lloyd, Caroline McClelland, SVEN MARTIN, ZOON CRONJE, TIM BRINK. Creative Director: NOLENE SAUNDERS nolene@treadmag.co.za Contributors: Donovan Jackson, ANDY ELLIS, BARRY McCALLUM, Jason Bronkhorst. Publisher: JOANNE BADENHORST joanne@treadmag.co.za Brand Manager: Christopher Dutton chris@treadmag.co.za Editorial Address: 22 Collins Street Kensington B Randburg 2194 For advertising enquiries chris@treadmag.co.za. Subscriptions info@treadmag.co.za or call 082 876 1672 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.

Big wheel keeps on turning

I

’m not against change, but I do tend to

a different wheel size with it’s own sub-

for opinion – and test riding a whole lot of them

accept it/adapt to it rather gradually,

divisions. For a newcomer to mountain

myself – I have to concede that this is a change

preferring to do some research and

biking, it’s formidable. What’s more,

that we have no choice but to embrace. Don’t

prodding and asking around for opinion

when they ask us enthusiastically which is

judge 29ers until you have ridden one. But ride

before deciding on whether I accept something

the best bike for them, we go and confuse

the right one because just like 26-inch bikes,

new or not. Maybe it’s the cynic in me. Maybe

them even more by asking what kind of

not all 29ers are created equal.

I’m just being sensible. Or maybe I’m just a

riding they want to do… “What do you

Sean Badenhorst

little conservative. I’m sure I’m not the only

mean what kind of riding? I want to do

Editor

one of my generation that manages change

mountain bike riding.”

like that.

But change is inevitable. And whether

NEW SECTION

You can’t blame me – and many others

we like it or not, it becomes part of the

Because we have been inundated with

who have been riding 26-inch-wheeled bikes

world. If we allow it to, it becomes part

questions from newcomers about mountain

for two decades – for being skeptical about

of our world. Sometimes even if we don’t

biking, we’ve added a new section to

this ‘new’ bigger-wheeled platform that’s

allow it to… I’d ridden 29-inch bikes before

TREAD called Starting Out (page 47). We

gradually becoming more popular around the

– about five years ago when they were still

always thought there was enough information

world. I mean we’re not even finished finding

considered quirky, alternative, novel. To

out there already for beginners, but clearly

the best forms of suspension design, tyre

be honest, at the time, I never thought

there isn’t. We’re obviously keen to share our

tread patterns, frame material and so on for

they’d progress past that point. But they

extensive knowledge, especially if it means

mountain bikes and now we have to include a

have. Oh boy they most certainly have!

more mountain bikers getting out on the trails

whole new category of bike in our thinking.

And that’s why we’ve dedicated our

and having fun. Email us at info@treadmag.

It’s bad enough that we have so many

main feature in this edition to the 29-inch

co.za and write STARTING OUT in the subject

choices and sub-divisions in the traditional

revolution. And yes, after having done

field with questions you’d like answered.

26-inch-wheel platform; now we’re adding

loads of research, prodding, asking around

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Drool

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PASS TENSE

B

randon Iverach and Andre Swart descend the Montagu Pass, a popular training and race route for mountain bikers living in and

around George and Oudtshoorn. The gravelroad pass is 15km long and open to motor vehicle traffic, but it’s way better suited to bicycles. PHOTO: GREG BEADLE

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Clutter

PHOTO: GARY PERKIN

Ghost goes all girly Women’s mountain bike racing, usually short on sponsorship support, has been given a boost by the establishment of an all-women’s racing team by Ghost bikes. The German bike brand, which sponsors current Olympic champion, Sabine Spitz and 2009 World Cup champion, Elisabeth Osl, is relatively new to South Africa, but is making its presence felt through the women’s racing team. “We’ve signed a rider in every female age category and it’s been beneficial for both the riders and the brand,” said team owner, Jason Theunissen of Ballistic Bike Trading (BBT). “We’re never going to improve our women’s mountain biking in this country unless we start offering them support. Mountain biking is a tough sport for men and even more formidable for women. It’s amazing how their performances improve with consistent support.” The Ghost BBT team comprises: Saffron Vosloo (Sprogs), Savannah Vosloo (Youth), Simone Vosloo (Junior), Laetitia Botha (Under-23), Sanet Smal (Elite). Follow the team’s progress at www. ballisticbiketrading.co.za

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It’s back! The South African mountain biking community has welcomed the return of a round of the 2011 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup to Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, next April. Pietermaritzburg successfully hosted the opening round of the UCI World Cup in 2009, but the decision by Nissan not to extend it’s global sponsorship towards the end of 2009, forced the UCI to create a more budget-conscious calendar for 2010. This resulted in Pietermaritzburg being omitted from the 2010 calendar due to the high travel costs incurred by the competitors, who hail largely from North America and Europe. But next year the UCI World Cup will again kick off in Pietermaritzburg, which hosts a triple (DHI, XCO and 4X) on 23 and 24 April on the forested slopes adjacent to the Cascades Shopping Centre on the northwestern border of the city. The 2011 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup calendar: ·

April 23-24 - Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (XCO/DHI/4X)

·

May 21-22 - Yorkshire, Dalby Forest, Great Britain (XCO)

·

May 28-29 - Offenburg, Germany (XCO)

·

June 4-5 - Fort William, Scotland (DHI/4X)

·

June 11-12 - Leogang, Austria (DHI/4X)

·

July 2-3 - Mont Sainte Anne, Quebec, Canada (XCO/DHI/4X)

·

July 9-10 - Windham, New York, United States (XCO/DHI/4X)

·

August 6-8 - La Bresse, France (DHI)

·

August 13-14 - Nove Mesto Na Morave, Czech (XCO)

·

August 20-21 - Val di Sole, Italy (XCO/DHI/4X)

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Clutter

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Clutter Obituary: Allan Laudin aka The Dog (1956–2010)

I first met Al when I returned to South Africa from the UK. I thought I was pretty good on my bike. But not good enough to be able to laugh and cycle at the same time. This quirky Lycra-hating mountain biker led us down the winding trail of the Braamfontein Spruit, in a ride that defied time. At the end of it, we all knew what mountain biking was about: good trails, good friends, good times and a good drink spot at the end. Since then I have realised that Al’s position in mountain biking world in SA is unrivalled: in 1997 he co-founded one of the country’s most revered mountain biking clubs, Swampdogs, which has played a hand in launching great rides including Sani2C. His bike apparel reflected off the trails as he headed out in a blaze of golden glory on his Santa Cruz Goldilocks. He helped set up the Fouriesburg Farm with its Holey Trails and Farma Sutra Festival. And every week, as we all sat behind our computers in our ordinary working worlds, Al would send us

The Dog has headed uphill to the Great

e-mails that really are legendary. The last

Big Kennel in the Sky, leaving a huge hole on

was just a week ago where, with his usual

Joburg’s trails and amongst mountain bikers

prose he was enticing us out into the Free

countrywide. His leopard print suit, wide grin

State hills with threats of homebrewed

and relentless humour will be missed.

goodies and promises of perfect trails. How

From us all: Woof to the Dog.

could we resist?

– Kerryn Krige

3 Things… …that never fail to frustrate: 1. getting three bikes on a bike rack 2. getting a new tyre onto the rim 3. sending a text message wearing long fingered gloves …we’re really looking forward to: 1. Easter Weekend 2011 – UCI World Cup 4X in Pmb, baby! 2. Easter Weekend 2011 – UCI World Cup XC in Pmb, baby! 3. Easter Weekend 2011 – UCI World Cup DH in Pmb, baby!

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Surf this…

Media

Looking at a dry and dusty lawn the other day got me seriously considering my eldest son Conor’s request to build a pump track and some dirt jumps in the backyard. Well, there was that and

Compiled by Barry McCallum

remembering that I have a friend who works for Bobcat. So, where to start… http://www.dirtjumping.com/building_dirt_jumps.html is a simple, easy-to-follow guide containing a glossary, and listing all the tools and materials you’ll need to grab some air on your own property. Once the

Read this…

boys and I get busy, I’ll post updates on our progress on www.treadmag.co.za.

I fully believe in function over form, which is why I get annoyed when I read the online MTB fashion police telling me that you can’t/shouldn’t ride with bar-ends on riser bars. It took some

They surpassed their first fundraising target

searching but I’ve found why there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it, and it is, in fact, better

in June, but at the time of going to press Stan

than not having them. In an article entitled The Feng Shui of Mountain Biking, Mike Davis writes:

Engelbrecht and Nic Grobler were still on the

“This is why riser bars feel better than flats even if they’re geometrically identical - the curve of

highways and byways of South Africa shooting

the risers keeps the Ch’i within the bar. It just flows straight off the end of flats. Bar ends help

Bicycle Portraits – everyday South Africans

a little.” Read more at http://www.bikereader.com/contributors/Davis/feng.htmlhttp://www.

and their bicycles – a photographic book. The

bikereader.com/contributors/Davis/feng.html

project, which is aimed at documenting those, who, unlike most of the readers of this mag, use their bike as an “integral tool in their dayto-day existence”. The total cost of the project will be $35000, broken up into three phases: $15000 for the travelling and photography, $5000 for design and layout and $1 000 for the printing and binding. The total print run will be 3000. People interested in being a part of the project can donate at: http://www.kickstarter.com/ projects/bicycleportraits/bicycle-portraitseveryday-south-africans-and-thei. A further aim of the project is one of reaching out and helping the less-privileged by possibly setting up a trust to provide “bicycle maintenance skills, providing necessities like

Listen to this... It’s been three years since Minutes to Midnight was released. Come the middle of September Linkin Park will release the follow-up to that album A Thousand Suns. The band have often been criticised for taking their music too seriously and overproducing their albums, but the break, it seems, has been good for them. In an interview with Rolling Stone, frontman Chester Bennington said: “This time we realised it doesn’t matter what the songs sound like. If we like it and it comes from us…At this point we’re writing such great music that I almost want to go do 50 shows around the world and then get right back into making another record. Once the ball starts rolling, it’s all I want. It’s like a drug.” The first single of the album, The Catalyst, was scheduled to debut in the middle of August, but “audio stems” were available for download at www.myspace.com/linkinpark in July. The reason for this was to give the band’s many fans the chance to contribute to the finished product. Linkin Park, Featuring You is “a contest which gives…you some audio from The Catalyst, and you get to take it from there; you can remix the parts, write something over them, or mute stuff and write something totally new”. Fans will be able to download the submissions and vote for which one they feel should be included on A Thousand Suns. Legendary producer Rick Rubin will co-produce with singer Mike Shinoda.

helmets, tyres, tubes, locks…”.

Watch this…

Engelbrecht and Grobler regularly post

I’ve been wanting to get my paws on The Way Bobby Sees It since

pictures and short stories of the people they

I first watched Bobby McMullen’s hugely impressive segment in

encounter, like Rosebank bank worker Gabriel

Kranked 8: Revolve. McMullen lost his eyesight 17 years ago due

Moloi’s pimped Katty (pictured) – and some of

to complications arising from diabetes, yet went on to compete

their maladies and misadventures – on www.

internationally in disabled downhill skiing. Despite having to

bicycleportraits.co.za, and you can follow

undergo two double transplants – kidney and pancreas – in 1997

them on http://twitter.com/bicycleportrait

and 2003, he decided to hit the mountain bike scene. Although

and http://www.facebook.com/pages/

he tackled some endurance, it was the thrill of gravity that he fell in love with. The award-winning

Bicycle-Portraits/120630434617409

The Way Bobby Sees It chronicles McMullen’s preparation for an attempt at riding the Downieville Downhill Classic, the longest downhill race in the USA at more than 27 kilometres. It’s an intimate

Got a website, book, CD or DVD you

look at a man who is an inspiration to many disabled – and abled – athletes. For more on him, go

think we should check out, drop us a

to: http://www.rideblindracing.com/about.shtml. To watch the trailer or order the film, go to

mail at info@treadmag.co.za and write

http://www.poisonoakproductions.com/, which also has on offer Singletrack MINDS, which is a

‘Media’ in the subject field.

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documentary looking at the early days of the sport in Marin County.

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Clutter

A BEER WITH…

Anka Martin

By Sean Badenhorst

South Africa’s top female downhiller, Anka Martin, finished on the podium at the 2010 Megavalanche, a 30km, 2580m descent (and some tough little ascents) at L’Alpe d’Huez, France. We caught up with her over an ice cold Stella Artois. A podium at Megavalanche, that must rate as one of in such lactic acid shock from the glacier, the really technical descents and the frenzy of all the people, your career highlights right? Yes, it was a tough race battling it out with almost so when you hit the climbs, it is just such a struggle. a hundred girls including three DH world champions A definite must for anyone who loves to ride! and a big field of DH World Cup racers. Standing on You start in the snow at the summit and finish in the podium with Anne Caroline Chausson, is every girl the heat of the valley below. How do you dress for gravity racer’s dream. I was pretty surprised and very a race like that? happy of course to beat some of the world’s fastest You have to be up at the top of the glacier at 6am, and it is usually freezing up there that early. So when girls like Sabrina Jonnier, and Tracy Moseley. you head up, you are bundled up in puffy jackets What are your top three career highlights? Getting 4th place at the Mega Avalanche was definitely and longs, and then you start stripping off the layers one of them. I am also super proud of having stepped when we line up with half and hour to go. You have to onto the podium as a professional while racing wear a full-face helmet and kneepads for the race, internationally in all the gravity disciplines (DH, 4X, which gets really hot and uncomfortable during the Slalom and Super D) and of course representing South climbs. I raced in some nice stretchy TLD shorts, a Africa in DH at the World Champs five times has been thin long sleeved jersey, my hydration pack and yes, a real honor. The other highlight has to be that I am um, my sunglasses (a big no-no when it comes to a three-time Cape Epic finisher and an Amabubesi DH style points), but with all the climbing, it is the way to go if you want to breathe better. By the time member. Your Megavalanche time was 01 hour 18 minutes – you get to the bottom though, you are completely that’s a long time to be going downhill. What is the drenched in sweat. You live in the USA now, are you racing pro there? toughest thing to deal with? It is really a mentally tough race, you have so many Yes, I am still racing as a professional, and I feel like different elements to deal with and you want to give my riding keeps improving every year. I keep pushing up so many times. The tracks are really technical, so myself and my limits to improve as an all round rider. you have to concentrate so much to pass people using I have been competing at various different DH and crazy lines; and because you race on two completely Enduro DH race series, and I’ve also been doing some different tracks (one for qualifying and one for the marathon stage races. It has been super fun to mix up main event), and the fact that they are so long, you the Marathon, DH and Enduro disciplines. My sponsors can’t memorise everything. It is so hard to tell how are Santa Cruz Bicycles, SRAM/RockShox and Crank you are doing during the race, because you can’t keep Brothers, and they have been so supportive in my track of where your competitors are. Climbing the hills decision to pick and choose races and to have me after racing down a glacier is pretty nuts. Your body is compete in these various disciplines. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Clutter

OFF-CAMBER Non-lethal self-defence devices

JPX Jet Protector

Sadly, safety remains our biggest concern as mountain bikers in this country. Carrying a gun just seems plain crazy, but for those who have encountered a near-death experience at the hands of bike-jackers, it’s a strong option. But what about those that don’t want to carry

Guardian Angel

a gun to have some bike riding fun? The JPX Jet Protector is a high-performance non-lethal

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 16

weapon that looks like a handgun (well a brightly

The Guardian Angel looks more like a large

coloured one), feels like a handgun and has

electric gate remote than a self-defence

the capacity to stop an assailant in his tracks,

gadget and weighs just 117 grams. It’s just a

temporarily halting him without any long-term

bit bigger than a Blackberry and discharges a

side-effects (except possibly prison life).

similar irritant-like gel as its big brother, at

It shoots a liquid filled capsule containing an

a velocity of 145kph. We tried out this self-

agent that is designed to irritate and inflame

defence device in the stands at Sharks vs Bulls

the eyes, respiratory tract and skin (think a

Currie Cup match (nah, just kidding). We tried

combination of tear gas and pepper spray). The

it out in a safe place with no other humans in

velocity of this capsule is 430kph. We didn’t

sight.

actually shoot this model, but watched the

It’s easy to use, makes a small pop sound, has

video clip on the website and can see why it’s

no kick and discharged both capsules with

considered so effective as a non-lethal device

impressive accuracy. The manufacturer claims

used by some law enforcement agencies in

that it’s not affected by side or headwind. It

Europe and the USA. It has an accuracy range

has an accuracy range of 4 metres.

of up to 7 metres.

The JPX Jet Protector costs around R2500

At 385 grams when loaded with its two capsules,

(about R400 for two new capsules); while the

it’s a little on the heavy side for most mountain

Guardian Angel, which is disposable once you

bikers, which is why the Guardian Angel, from

have fired both capsules, costs around R400.

the same Swiss manufacturer, Piexon, is a more

For more information, visit www.piexon.com.

practical option.

Local wholesaler: 011 6405019.

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Feature

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Clutter Blast from the past Despite a constant focus on the future and a relentless global quest to find the best combination mountain bike design, it appears nostalgia still has a special place in mountain biking. So much so that the second annual Old World Mountain Bike Championships (OWMTBC) were scheduled to be held in North Wales from 3-5 September 2010. Designed to crown an Old World Mountain Bike Champion, all OWMTBC competitors are obliged to use mountain bikes built before 1996, with extra championship points gained for original features including cantilever brakes, skinwall tyres, race clothing and an old school attitude. It’s not all racing though. In fact it’s more like a remember-when reunion festival with social rides, old-school bike and gear display, a retro quiz, braai (well, BBQ), and beer all listed on the long-weekend schedule. The racing comprises various XC events and a hillclimb. The OWMTBC will end up in its spiritual home when it visits Fairfax, California in 2011. Visit www.owmtbc.org for more details.

CSA LOOKS AHEAD WITH NEW PLAN On 3 August, Cycling South Africa (CSA)

revealed its new strategic plan for the next few years at a press conference held in Sandton. CSA

presented

to

the

media,

administrators and sponsors, what it calls 2020 Vision, referring to both the next decade as well as the optical term given to perfect sight, in which it aims to cater for “both the ‘elite’ cyclist as well as the everyday two-wheel lover.” “The highly impressive plan, backed by all key cycling stakeholders in South Africa, will see Cycling SA take back full control of the sport in the country. Cycling is more than just a sport, it is a lifestyle, which has shown considerable growth in both spectator and participation numbers over the years” said newly appointed CEO, Barry Mocke”. Mocke revealed that extensive research commissioned by CSA shows that in South Africa, cycling ranks as the 15th most popular participation sport amongst adults, and is the 21st most popular amongst juniors. From a mountain biking perspective, CSA’s 2020 Vision strategy will see CSA taking over control of the national mountain bike series, of which there are currently two – the MTN National Marathon Series and the MTN National Cup Series for XC and DH. CSA will also assume organizational control of the 2011 UCI MTB World Cup, to be held in Pietermaritzburg. When questioned about the ongoing issue of lack of rider safety, Mocke said that it was on CSA’s to-do list: “Safety isn’t a quick-fix and is not something CSA can remedy alone. We are, however mindful of the need to improve rider safety and keen to support any safety improvement initiatives,” he said.

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Feature

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Stoke

The Art of Bicycle Maintenance, Part Two

now – the bomb. Given my recent behaviour the sensible response would have been: “Great idea, love. Give me a minute to jump in the shower.” Instead, I said: “Um, I was hoping to strip my bike. I’ve been wanting to spray it black for months.

By Andy Ellis

And the spray guy only works on Saturdays. I can strip the whole bike in 30 minutes, flat. We can stop by my guy on the way to beach.” She paused. Then smiled. “Okay cool.” What a woman. I bolted out of bed. Next second I’m standing over my bike. Naked. No time to dally. I looked at the apron. No time to tie a girly bow either. I charged out of the starting blocks, careful to keep any dangling bits away from the crank. Twenty minutes later I’m staring at the bony frame of my bike. All the parts are scattered across the floor. Just one more component to go – the crank. I scratched for the crank puller and set to work. “I’m done love,” I hollered over my shoulder, smiling like a Cheshire cat. And then, I looked back down. My gut burnt. Sweat blistered my brow. I stared at the

R

cotton-thin thread of alloy coiling around the emember the column in which I

Set it to panic and stormed to Woolworths.

crank puller. “You’ve stripped the thread,

exposed myself as a mechanical

I slumped into the couch, knowing that

you, you doos, you stripped the thread.” My

tit? Probably not. Why would you?

my bike, and my blind obsession with it,

voice quivered. Forty minutes passed. An

It’s not like I’m, ooh, I dunno,

had suppressed my sensitivity, amplified

hour. Two. I tried everything. It was frozen to

Oscar bloody Wilde. So here’s a refresher. At

thoughtlessness and blinded me to the basics

the axle. Rigour mortis.

the end of that story I promised a follow-up

of marriage 101 – yet again. I hate upsetting

on how I managed to untrue a perfectly

this woman.

“What’s taking so long?” She spoke from the doorway. “I stripped the crank. I can’t get it off.”

spinning wheel. And then got punched by a

Months pass. Saturday morning. We’re

woman. Said woman is my wife. And she tore

lovebirds, nesting under the duvet. The white-

a strip off of me for ruining a white-linen

apron debacle is behind us (it didn’t clean, she

cooking apron in the process, a gift from her

gave it me, to wear while working on my bike,

(now deceased) grandmother.

it’s so frikkin gay, but you know, out of respect

She smiled. “Bugger the beach. Lets

for the dead granny… I wear it). Anyway, we’re

get this thing off of the bike and go see the

lying there. Staring at the ceiling.

spray guy.” She must have seen the horror in

Now you’re up to speed. First up, she didn’t really punch me. But I know she

“What can you do about it?” “Nothing, lets go to the beach. I hate this bloody bike.”

wanted to. The intention was blood-shot into

“It’s such a lovely day,” she says.

my eyes. My bike had stolen my attention,

the whites of her eyes. I wish she’d socked

“Lets grab a coffee. Go for a walk on the

again. I’d been selfish, again. I am helplessly

me. The actual retribution was worse:

mountain. Or what about the beach?” My

trapped in a bicycle spell. Maybe she saw

She clutched the grease-stained apron to

mind scrambles. Synapses collide. You see,

that. Or maybe she couldn’t bare to spend

her chest. Took a long, sad, look at the knob

somewhere between the hours of three and

another moment seeing her pitiful man

who is her husband (me) turned her back and

four AM I’d woken up and decided to spray

standing naked, spanner in hand.

reached under the kitchen sink. A bottle of

my bike another colour. Ahh, gloss black. I’ll

Next thing we’re standing at a workbench

Preen emerged. She sprayed. Sprayed and

get a white saddle. Pearly white grips. Hmm,

inside of a silencer repair shop. A kind man

sprayed. The apron foamed. The ozone layer

wonder if I should look for a set of white

flashes his oxyacetylene torch. “Are you sure

thinned. The dog collapsed to the floor –

pedals? Probably a bit much. My imagination

you want to do this?” He asks. “Ja, I say. Heat

goofed on Preen (don’t try this on your dog).

was a glitter globe of restoration romance. I

the bitch. Smack it off. I’ve got a date with

She slammed the washing machine door.

fell asleep, a gentle smile upon my lips. And

my wife.”

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Fuel

FAT CHANCE

To improve your health: Include more nuts and seeds in your diet. POLYUNSATURATED FAT (Good fat) Found mainly in grains, fish and seafood, and the family includes the Omega 3 essential fatty

S

T

acids (EFAs) ALA, EPA and DHA, and linoleic acid,

By Sean Badenhorst

the key Omega 6 fatty acid. These are called ‘essential’ because, unlike other fats, they cannot be made in the body. Some people try to boost their EFA levels with oil supplements, but some research has suggested that EFAs from plant sources are not as bioavailable as those from fish sources. To improve your health: Take an EFA supplement like Omega 3 and 6 (or a combination of the two); and/or eat more fish. SATURATED FAT (Bad fat) Saturated fat is the weapon of choice for the silent killer – cholesterol. Its consumption is linked to hardening of the arteries and heart disease. It’s mainly found in animal products (dairy and meat) and is generally solid at room temperature. If you follow a sensible diet with minimal processed food there should be no reason to cut out saturated fat altogether. To improve your health: Go easy on the dairy and meat products and limit the intake of processed foods.

Love life? Want to ride further and faster? Well then as clichéd as it may sound, tighten up your daily diet – cut down on bad fats and consume more good fats.

D

TRANS FAT (Bad fat) The favoured ally of cholesterol, trans fats occur when monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fat is hydrogenated (the addition of hydrogen

ietary fat gets a lot of bad

flow to occur within our bodies. Cholesterol

molecules) for a longer shelf life; trans fats

publicity. Mostly because the

is largely a product of a poor diet, no

are a side effect of incomplete hydrogenation.

mainstream media cares more

matter how fit and fast you are on the bike.

Think about the oil that gets used and reused

about details of the personal

Cholesterol is fueled by bad fats in our diet.

to fry French Fries at your local takeaway…

lives of celebrities and politicians than what

We know it’s an achingly dull topic and

Trans fatty acids are not essential and provide

constitutes good fats and bad fats. Can’t

that articles on fat are always going to

no known benefit to human health. They raise

blame them really. Fats are fats. They never

mention how we should cut down on French

levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower levels

change and they certainly don’t do anything

Fries and the like. But here’s a basic guide

of HDL (good) cholesterol.

you can photograph and sell to millions…

to at least make you aware of the what’s

To improve your health: Cut right back on

actually good for you – and what isn’t.

French Fries and other fried foods – particularly

operate without some fats in our diet. And

MONONSATURATED FAT (Good fat)

that from fast food outlets. Also go easy on the

to be realistic, it’s almost impossible to

Mainly found in nuts and seeds and their oils,

processed sweet stuff like biscuits, cakes and

eliminate the bad fats, because they taste so

monounsaturated fat is known to lower LDL

most chocolate.

dam good. But we should be able to cut down

or bad cholesterol. Its ability to raise HDL or

on them, even if it is to make it possible for

good cholesterol is still a matter of debate

Want to check your cholesterol level? Most good

you to ride more comfortably because you’re

as is its alleged role in aggravating certain

pharmacies will do a cholesterol test, which is

that much healthier.

diseases. Oleic acid, for instance, may

quick and painless (a pricked finger isn’t that

We don’t know offhand how much

boost memory and reduce blood pressure,

sore!). Also visit www.heartfoundation.co.za

cholesterol is clinging to the walls of our

but is also associated with increased risk of

for tips on how to improve your diet.

arteries, making it tricky for optimal blood

breast cancer.

Bottom line is that we can’t effectively

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SCIENTIFIC TRAINING &

THE UNQUESTIONABLE PROOF Chris Brand, multiple South African masters mountain bike champion, is a dedicated disciple of scientific training. The 53-year-old racer has got the statistics to prove pre-, during and postexercise nutrition really does lead to performance improvement.

Chris Brand – SA Master’s XC Cup series winner 2010 and SA Marathon Champion 2008, 2009, 2010. • •

I

’m a skeptic, which is why shortly after I started cycling six years ago, I decided that guesswork and marketing hype weren’t for me. I wanted scientific feedback from my training and racing so that I could measure where I was and what I needed to achieve in order to improve. For those that don’t know, the best way to measure cycling performance from a scientific perspective is with a power meter. I’m fanatical about keeping records of my power statistics during training and races so am able to objectively track improvements or dips in my performance. I do all my quality training sessions on an indoor-trainer where the conditions are predictable and unchanging. Racing is what motivates me and it’s where I measure my success. I’m 53 years old, which means that any effort I put into my training or racing needs to be very calculated, because recovery at this age isn’t very rapid. I remember doing races and taking days, sometimes over a week, to see my power measurement figures reflecting a full recovery. But one thing that’s made a significant, factually proven difference to my performance is the addition of USN supplements to my regime. I never believed in using nutrition supplements, thinking that they were more marketing mumbo-jumbo than anything else.

USN Epic Pro – during and after long rides (three hours or more) USN Recover Max – after every training session and race (within 45 minutes); and again after an hour if I’m particularly shattered USN 100% Whey Protein – as a ‘snack shake’ in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon and again at night

I’m very lean and have a naturally fast metabolism. This means that I am constantly hungry and in search of food, which really is the best way to get all the relevant nutrients, but it’s far from convenient; and how do you measure it to ensure you have the right quantities and ratios of all the important nutrients? In January 2010, a friend convinced me to try using USN supplements including Epic Pro, Recover Max and 100% Whey Protein. It solved my hunger problem and I felt like I was recovering quicker after hard training sessions and races. But since I’m a slave of science, I examined my power stats to see whether or not these supplements were making any difference. To my surprise, I discovered they were! It’s not easy to improve your power threshold through training alone. But what I found, 12 weeks after I started incorporating the USN supplements in my daily routine, was that my power threshold had improved by 5 watts – from 340 watts where it was for over five years, to 345 watts. And generally, as you age, your power output should begin to drop, not increase! I’d done everything the same year after year and the only change I’d made in 2010 was adding the USN supplements to my schedule.

Power in watts

My supplementation strategy:

345 344 343 342 341 340 339 338 337 336 335

71.5kg

74kg

48

74kg 74kg 74kg 74kg

49

50

51

Age in years

52

53

course direction was reversed in 2010, but had a very similar amount of elevation to the 2009 edition. Last year I crashed and broke my shoulder and came second; this year I won my age group title, but my average watts recorded for my 2010 race was 301 compared to 294 watts in 2009. Seven watts average in a sub-1hr15min race that’s a huge improvement! I’ve also noted that in one of my hardest crosscountry training sessions, where I ride intervals at increasing wattages, how my average heart rate has dropped from 169bpm to 163bpm. My body weight has also decreased since January from being a very consistent 74kg since I started training seriously to 71.5kg (I’m 1.84m tall). Normally, a loss in weight will mean a lower power output, but my power output has increased with my weight loss. This has given me a significant increase in watts per kg from 4.6 to 4.8! Again, I put this improvement down to the USN supplements, which I now list as essential in my quest for improved performance. For product info visit www.usn.co.za

I did the MTN Cross-country National at Saasveld, George in 2009 and again in 2010. The

“But one thing that’s made a significant, factually proven difference to my performance is the addition of USN supplements to my regime.” 10302 SA-TREAD EDITORIAL FP.indd 1 TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 23

2010/07/28 03:16:14 PM 8/10/10 3:20:14 PM


Join now and become part of one of SA’s premium national cycling clubs • R900 joining fee which includes: 1. Membership to end of 2010 2. Club kit – shorts & top 3. CGC affiliation • Monthly skills Clinics • Social activities • Training camps • Racing Teams • Organised SAFE club rides, including Northern Farm • 3 Backup vehicles & Think Bike marshals – the safest club to ride with • Hospitality at major races including 94.7 & The Argus • Interaction with the MTN Pro Team • MTN Nycomed Junior Academy being the feeder for the MTN Pro Team

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Tackle sloping drop-offs Drop-offs are formidable because they’re essentially an open invitation from gravity to fly over your handlebars. You can easily decline the invitation by implementing these five steps. By Sean Badenhorst

Y

Skill

ou get sheer drop-offs and you get sloping drop-offs. We’ll look at the latter in this issue because once you can master a sloping drop-off, you can

add sheer drop-off to your can-do list. There are some key elements to bear in mind when you’re heading off a steep slope. • Centre of gravity – this changes as you point the front of the bike downwards so you need to lean back to counter this. • Momentum – as always is your friend. • Look where you want to go – yep, we know, it’s an age-old tip, but it never fails…

Each drop-off is different and you may need to make minor adjustments to these basic principles, which should get you safely and smoothly down any sloping drop-off, no matter how big the drop is. 1. Moderate your speed. As you approach the drop-off, get your speed just right. You can generally go quite slowly down drop-offs, but those with some sheer steps in them require a bit more speed. 2. Level the pedals. You don’t want to catch a pedal on the lip of the drop-off so level the cranks so that your feet are in the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions. You shouldn’t need to pedal down a drop-off, but you may need to adjust your pedal position slightly on your way down in order to maintain balance and control.

t

3. Lean back. As your front wheel approaches the lip of the drop-off thrust your weight back off the saddle. As you descend, adjust your body’s position accordingly. The steeper the drop, the further back you should hang. It’s not unusual to have your chest on the saddle; and if your arms are long enough, your chin! By doing this, you are moving your centre of gravity back (off the saddle) and down (standing on your pedals), which is essential in keeping you upright! You can never really lean too far back. 4. Look ahead. If you look down at the drop-off while you’re clearing it, you’ll increase your chances of taking a tumble. Look 3-5 metres ahead to prepare yourself for what’s coming and you’ll glide smoothly downwards. 5. Finger on the rear brake. You may not need to brake, but having a finger or two ready to scrub some speed will stand you in good stead, especially if there is a turn at the bottom of the drop-off. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Trail

All out adventures

PHOTO: www.photomarx.co.za

By Hennie Marx

REGION: KwaZulu-Natal CLOSEST TOWN/CITY: Bergville DESCRIPTION: With peaks rising to over 3000 metres, the northern Drakensberg is the real deal if you’re looking for proper mountains. There aren’t many mountain bike trails near the peaks in this part of the Berg, but the idea is catching on. One such forward-thinking venue is All Out Adventures. As the name suggests, it’s more than just mountain biking on offer, but that’s all we were interested in. And weren’t disappointed. There are two route options – 40km and 23km – which comprise a mixture of jeep track, gravel roads, a smattering of tar, rough 4x4 track, cattle paths and some superb singletrack. The 40km route is tough and more technical and suited to fit intermediate and experienced riders. Below you is the Tugela River and above you is the Amphitheatre. Mountain biking doesn’t get much more beautiful than this! You climb towards Mont Aux Sources before descending and hitting the 4km climb up past Alpine Heath, which takes you close to the rugged peaks. Some fast descents back down to All Out Adventures offer serious high-speed fun! Although less testing, the well-marked 23km route never became boring, with fast downhill sections, stream crossings, some moderate climbs and also some tight technical riding. Needless to say, the views are spectacular, even in winter, which is when we visited. Breathing in lungfuls of fresh mountain air is truly one of life’s great privileges and we certainly made a point of enjoying it. DISTANCES: 40km tough; 23km moderate NOVICE: 7/10 INTERMEDIATE: 9/10 ADVANCED: 10/10 TYRES: Allrounders like Geax Sugaro, Maxxis Crossmark or Nokian NBT. BEST THING: Real mountains, big mountains! WORST THING: If you’re not a reasonably strong climber, you’ll suffer on the 40km route! BEST SEASON: Any season, but expect severe cold and possible snow in winter. GET THERE: From Johannesburg (340km) – Take the N3 to Harrismith, then take the N5 towards Bethlehem (Exit 29). Travel 5km on this road and then turn left to Phuthaditjaba for 8km. Turn left towards Bergville on the R74. Travel for 35km on this road heading past Sterkfontein Dame and down Olivershoek Pass. At the bottom of the pass, turn right towards Northern Berg Resorts. About 3km after Tower of Pizza’ turn right and follow the signs to All Out Adventures (along the Alpine Heath road). From Durban (270km) – Take the N3 towards Johannesburg. After passing the offramps to Estcourt, 6km after the Shell Ultra City, take the offramp that indicates Winterton and Northern Berg. Head for 41km on this road, the R74 through Winterton and Bergville. Another 35km after Bergville, turn left towards Northern Berg Resorts. About 3km after Tower of Pizza’ turn right and follow the signs to All Out Adventures (along the Alpine Heath road). COST: R30 per person SECURE PARKING: Yes. BE CAREFUL OF… Brake failure. Be sure before you head off to All Out Adventures that your brakes are in good working order. You’ll need them. BE SURE TO… Try one of the other activities on offer if you’re into variety they include flying trapeze (yes, it is correct), bungee bounce, the King Swing (we kid you not), zip line, paint ball, quad biking and extreme cable canopy tour. Also look out for the Royal Drakensberg Mountain Bike Challenge, which takes place in May on very similar routes. CONTACT: Call 036 438 6242 or 072 386 1344; e-mail info@alloutadventures. co.za; visit www.alloutadventures.co.za

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Trail

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Trail

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Trail PHOTO: ALBERT RETIEF

Voortrekker Monument By Albert Retief

REGION: Gauteng CLOSEST TOWN/CITY: Tshwane/Pretoria DESCRIPTION: The Tshwane Municipality has done a great job of offering safe riding for mountain bikers, with a number of options to choose from. Currently, you can ride between the Voortrekker Monument, the Groenkloof Nature Reserve, Fountains Valley and Fort Klapperkop and be pretty confident of your safety. The trails are all cut through pristine conservation areas, and are immaculately maintained. Pretoria is known for its dolomite, and for those of you who have forgotten your high school geography, dolomite is really, really big rock. Although the terrain around the Voortrekker Monument is extremely rocky, the municipality has put in a huge amount of work to create some very cool singletrack. In the days of the old Fort-to-Fort race, there was a route circling the perimeter of the grounds, but now, after some very serious work, there are tracks intersecting all the steep grades within the grounds. Bridges have been built and many kilometres of track have been cut to create rocky sections, loose dirt and there’s even a small slate deposit to navigate. And if you feel like some steep hill repeats, you can always ride the amphitheatre stairs. The trail builders have cut a course that makes you want to ride faster and faster. Unfortunately, the reality of the hill on which the monument is built, means that your legs will be burning after the first few kilometres. On the upside, the trail is cleverly cut and there are fewer rocks than you would expect, but you still need to be careful. DISTANCE: 15–20km NOVICE: 5/10 INTERMEDIATE: 9/10 ADVACED: 8/10 TYRES: As always in this area, choose something with nice thick sidewalls. Schwalbe Racing Ralph Double Defence is my choice. BEST THING: Fast, loose downhills. Hard, tight corners. WORST THING: Some of the corners are a little too tight. Exercise caution on the first few loops as they can really surprise you! BEST SEASON: Winter. It is dry, bland and dusty, but mud will be an issue in the summer. Also, because it is up on a hill, it is slightly warmer than the surrounds on a cold winter’s morning. GET THERE: From the N14 to Pretoria, take the Eeufees offramp and turn left. You really can’t miss the monument. Just look up to see why locals call it ‘the giant toaster’. COST: R20 per rider SECURE PARKING: Yes BE CAREFUL OF... Bles buck jumping across the trail. BE SURE TO... Catch a coffee at Avokado on the grounds and see the ladies in the old “Kappie” dresses welcoming guests to the monument. CONTACT: www.voortrekkermon.org.za Tel:( 012) 326 6770 TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Trail

King’s Kloof By Donovan Jackson

REGION: Gauteng CLOSEST TOWN/CITY: Krugersdorp DESCRIPTION: Not far from the northern suburbs of Johannesburg lies the craggy town of Krugersdorp. In the surrounds of this high-altitude settlement, a good deal of quality mountain biking can be found; it was, for some time, a destination for ‘secret’ training for TREAD staffers. But now everyone can have a go with the recent opening of the King’s Kloof trail by mountain-biking enthusiast Herman Stander. With safety increasingly becoming perhaps the major concern for mountain bikers in Gauteng, the opening of another quality, highly accessible trail can only be seen as a bonus. While your freedom may feel crimped by having to visit purpose-built trails rather than simply exploring, there is the bonus that this is indeed a purpose-built trail. Located on the edge of the Krugersdorp escarpment, King’s Kloof offers a 15.5km ‘Black’ loop replete with serious descents, tough uphills and technical challenges aplenty. The real treat has to be the characteristically rocky terrain offered up in this part of the country; a moderately fit rider should complete the loop in an hour to an hour and a half. It is that engaging, however, that you will want to go around one more time. When TREAD visited, in the second week of operation, the trail was a little ‘rough’, needing to be ridden in, while some of the lines through corners or tricky bits weren’t yet ideal. However, we definitely felt that with the passage of enough MTB traffic, the course would soon become more flowing; Herman confirmed that he’d take a closer look at the lines and cut the tracks accordingly. What will blow you away, however, is the quality of the views. Krugersdorp is high – its altitude is somewhere around 1600 metres – and that means a stunning gorge into which you descend and beautiful views. It also means a thorough workout as you climb out the other side. Despite the wintriness of it all, one section of the course reminded us a little of the famous ‘Nick’s Pass’ section of the Sani2c – a cutting on the side of a mountain overlooking some authentic savannah and bushveldt. In the design of the loop, Stander and his team have taken pains to make the ride accessible to intermediate riders too, with a 13km ‘red’ route (described as ‘hard’) and a 10km ‘yellow’ route (described as ‘intermediate’) on offer. DISTANCE: 10km Yellow, 13km Red, 15.5km Black NOVICE: 3/10 – even the intermediate route is testing. INTERMEDIATE: 7/10 – good to hone developing skills ADVANCED: 8/10 – you’ll find some decent rocky singletrack to test your skills TYRES: Definitely a tough set; Maxxis Crossmarks, Continental Mountain Kings, GEAX Mezcal were on our test bikes. BEST THING: Rocky, tough ascents and descents. WORST THING: Needs to be ridden in a bit, lines need some work (you can cut the corners yourself, though!) BEST SEASON: We went in winter but are looking forward to checking the view in spring and summer. GET THERE: Find King’s Kloof at the top of the R563 (Van Riebeeck St) Sterkfontein Hill or look on the website for accurate directions http:// kingskloofmtb.co.za COST: R30 per entry, open on weekends only. BE CAREFUL OF: Pinch flats if you don’t run tubeless tyres. BE SURE TO: Tell your Gauteng buddies about this venue, in the interests of their safety! CONTACT: 072 421 7253 or 082 371 2082 of visit http://kingskloofmtb.co.za

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Trail PHOTO: Donovan Jackson

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Feature

MAKE DA CIRCLE

BEEGA Compiled by the TREAD Test Team PHOTO: Craig Dutton

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Feature It’s gone beyond a joke, beyond an experiment, beyond a fad and beyond a trend. Twenty-nine-inch diameter wheel bikes (29ers) are here in force. Some say we’ve been riding the wrong size wheels all along and that 29ers are the bomb. Others think 26-inch bikes will eventually be consigned to the history books. And others still think 29ers are a marketing ploy by the industry to generate more interest and sales. We went in search of fact and opinion to find out more about 29ers for ourselves – and you…

L

Some notable 29-er racing successes Burry Stander 1st 2010 SA XCO National Championships 1st 2010 Sea Otter XCO 3rd 2010 UCI World Cup #2, Belgium 3rd 2010 UCI Marathon World Championships Andrew McLean 1st overall 2010 Magalies Monster 1st veteran (with Shan Wilson) 2010 Subaru Sani2c 1st master (with Shan Wilson) 2010 Absa Cape Epic

ook at the 2011 model ranges and you’ll notice that all the big

Willow Koerber

brand manufacturers have included at least one 29er model

2nd 2010 UCI XCO Women’s World Cup #1, England

in their arsenal. Confirmation that you can only fight like with

Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski

like and conceding that the bigger-wheeled bike is a platform

1st 2009 USA XCO National Championships

that must now be taken seriously, even by the brands that a couple of

3rd 2009 American Continental Championships

years back were rubbishing the concept.

Sam Schultz

Twenty-niners are not new. Gary Fisher, one of the founders of

2nd 2009 American Continental Championships

mountain biking, began telling people a decade ago that 29-inch wheels

Heather Irmiger

were better in many ways than 26-inch wheels, the accepted standard.

1st 2009 USA XCO Women’s National Championships

But few listened. Those who did were mainly small brands that had little to lose by adding a new platform to their small production runs. Fisher may be eccentric, but he’s not stupid; and in 2002 he

BIG BRAND CREDIBILITY

began to manufacture and sell 29-inch bikes in his own stable. One

Specialized, one of the world’s biggest bicycle brands, is a latecomer

of the biggest obstacles was the shortage of tyres, tubes and forks, a

to the 29-inch bike market. In the middle of 2007 it started to invest

significant limiting factor and probably one of the reasons the platform

a considerable amount of time, money and expertise into the R&D of

took so long to achieve the critical mass it now enjoys. Also, the UCI

a quality 29er. The result of that investment, thus far, is Burry Stander

initially banned 29-inch bikes in races, but in 2003, Fisher managed to

challenging for international race podiums – and achieving them – and

successfully lobby for their acceptance.

a whole new category of bikes to sell to the world.

Mountain bike pioneers were very limited by what wheel size they

In finishing third at the second round of the 2010 UCI World Cup,

could use when they first began modifying and designing bikes that

just a few seconds behind World Champion, Nino Schurter and Olympic

would best withstand the rigours of trail riding. Bombers or Clunkers,

Champion Julien Absalon, Stander unwittingly won over a huge chunk

the balloon-tyred 26-inch cruiser-style bikes, were a little more robust

of credibility for 29ers. Fast, tight racing and shorter riders were always

and fun compared to most bicycles of the time. A 29-inch wheel, was

meant to be the bigger-wheeled bike’s Achilles heel, but Stander (who

around at the time, but it was on road and touring bikes, and it was

stands just 1.74m tall) has pretty much put paid to those claims.

way too thin and unstable to consider. Besides, mountain biking was

TREAD spoke to Eric Shuder, 29er Product Manager at

a breakaway division of cycling that represented, freedom, fun and

Specialized, about what went into creating essentially a whole new

well, more fun. The mountain bike pioneers wanted different, not

bike:

the same…

TREAD: Where do you start with a project this big?

So the 26-inch wheel standard was set and a global industry grew

ERIC SHUDER: Well it’s not just a matter of taking bigger wheels

around that standard. Fortunately the mountain bike industry has

and putting them on an existing bike. We had to start from scratch to

always been way less conservative than the road cycling industry,

ensure the suspension was right, the geometry was perfect – different

with a variety of bottom bracket, stem, headset, gear shift, brakes

wheel sizes change the handling of the bike – and getting the front end

and suspension designs emerging over the past three decades. Some

low enough to keep the bike aggressive.

worked, while others were spectacular failures. But all are considered part of the learning curve that is mountain bike development – a dynamic, constant state of evolution – and occasionally, revolution.

TREAD: But you already had a lot of the technology in place right? ERIC: Well, yes and no. We used our most successful bike – a 26-inch

It’s difficult to label the widespread recognition and manufacture of

Stumpjumper FSR – took the skeleton and built up a 29-inch version

29ers we are seeing now. It’s part evolution, part revolution. It’s also

of it, which included having to re-think and re-work the suspension

part I-told-you-so, part let’s-not-get-lef t-behind as brand owners ride

technology. We tried a few prototype frames to work out which was

in circles at the intersection, considering which trail to take. All we

the best geometry for this wheel size. We worked with our product

know is that the 29er is no longer a novelty. It’s here to stay and it’s

managers, our engineers and our sponsored riders. We rode them

going to play a significant role in the cycling discipline we so love.

ourselves and then had lengthy discussions about the handling and feel TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Feature before settling on the best possible option. TREAD: Do you think 29ers will dominate the future of mountain biking?

So how does a 29-inch bike ride? That is the million-dollar question really. So we asked Specialized’s South African wholesaler, Le Peloton, for two similarly-specced

ERIC: I don’t think 29-ers will completely own the future of

Specialized bikes to ride for a few weeks. They sent two medium-

mountain biking, but they’ll certainly have a lasting presence, mainly

sized Rockhopper models (low-to-mid-range), one with 26-inch

the hardtail and the short-travel full susser. The 26-inch wheel

wheels and the other with 29-inch wheels, to allow us to draw our

definitely suits longer-travel bikes with their slacker frame geometry.

own comparisons.

TREAD: Any big improvements we can expect in the near future?

Each bike had the same tyres, hubs, saddle, seatpost, handlebar, stem, grips, brakes, drivetrain and gear shifters.

ERIC: Lighter wheels. Wheel weight is critical. Standard 29er wheel

We set them up identically in terms of saddle height, fore/aft

weights are fine for most riders, but not for serious racers. We’re

position, handlebar angle, stem height/position, fork pressure and

working on new wheel projects with the likes of carbon rims, lighter

tyre pressures and let our test team – and some TREAD readers – ride

tyres and even lighter forks. This technology will no doubt make its

them hard.

way down to the lower models eventually.

We took times, we took notes, we took notice of how each bike felt in every tight turn, wide turn, up steep climbs, down steep descents,

Burry Stander – the South African guinea pig

over ruts and rocks, through sand and mud. We rode them often and we rode them hard. We quickly established that we could run the 29er tyres softer and reduced the pressure accordingly – around a 6-9psi drop. Neither of the bikes had tubeless systems. This gave increased comfort and improved control through the larger sized contact patch between tyre and trail. We also found that the 29er rolled faster, especially on rocky or rutted terrain and also through thick sand and mud. We got our testers to score each bike with a 0 (acceptable), 1 (good)

After having ridden and raced a Specialized S-Works 29er since April

and 2 (excellent). Here’s final average scores from our testers:

2010, Stander, the Under-23 XCO World Champion, is convinced that the bigger wheel is better overall. He is the highest profile XCO racer to

Description

throw his leg over a 29er in the big international races, which attracts plenty of interest. Cross-country racing is tight and technical, just the environment in which 29ers are not supposed to excel. Stander’s results against the gone a long way to at least curbing, if not crushing, any such doubts.

climbs

said Stander shortly after finishing third, just 14 seconds behind current World Champion, Nino Schurter and current Olympic Champion, Julien Absalon at Round 2 of the 2010 World Cup in Houffalize, Belgium.

26-inch 12.4kg

steep

1

2

steady

2

1

steep

1

1

steady

2

1

Short, descents Long,

descents

“I’ve been riding both wheel sizes this year, and find it far easier

Tight turns

1

2

and more natural going from a 26-inch bike to a 29-inch bike. The other

Wide turns

1

1

Banked turns

1

2

Rocky surfaces

2

0

Sandy surfaces

2

1

Muddy surfaces

1

0

Straight gravel/

2

1

Singletrack

1

1

TOTAL

17

13

way around just feels like the opposite of progression, which should be an important message.” Stander believes that once the rotating weight of the larger wheels has been trimmed, the 29er will be even better. “The R&D guys at Specialized are working on a carbon 29er wheelset and lighter tyres. They’ve done so much work on the frame already and it’s really just the wheels where the biggest improvements can still be made. “It’s the future. I give the 26-inch hardtail another year and reckon in five years time 29ers will be the dominant size mountain bike throughout the world.

34 |

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 34

bike

climbs Long,

“To be honest, the only time I find the 29er isn’t as good as the

bike

13.9kg Short,

world’s best riders in World Cup and other high profile XCO races have

26-inch bike is on very slow (less than 10kph) climbs with switchbacks,”

29-inch

forest roads

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

8/10/10 3:20:38 PM


SAS

Feature

SA Seeding

The timeline of the 29er 1982 English off-road cycling pioneer Geoff Apps contacts Gary Fisher and Charlie Kelly with news that he had built a prototype off-road bicycle in 1981. The bike used 700c (29-inch) snow tyres from Finland. Fisher and Kelly were intrigued. However, poor supply resulted in them sticking with the 26-inch platform. 1991 Bianchi’s US division launches Project bikes, three 29-inch models. The Bianchi catalogue raves about the advantages of the larger wheels. But not much attention is paid and Bianchi sticks with 26-inch wheels. 1992 Klein bikes produces a limited number of a model called Adept, a 29-inch version of their successful 26-inch Attitude model, but discontinues it when it never quite takes off. 1995 Diamond Back bikes creates an Overdrive model and Specialized presents a Crossroads model – both brands sport 700c-sized (29-inch) wheels and are more like hybrids with frame and fork clearance for larger tyres. A lack of suitable offroad tyres and forks puts an end to both models quickly. 1999 Wilderness Trail Bikes (WTB) manufactures the first-ever proper 29-inch tyre, the Nanoraptor. White Brothers produces the first commercially available suspension forks for 29-inch wheels. 2002 Gary Fisher Bicycles is the first of the major brands to produce a range of 29-inch bikes. Up until then, some small brands like Willits Bikes and Moots had produced 29-inch bikes in small quantities. The Fisher bikes don’t sell well, but Fisher persists with the larger wheel platform.

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2004 Gary Fisher Bicycles introduces the singlespeed 29-inch model, The Rig, which creates a big interest in 29-inch bikes and improves sales.

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2005 Gary Fisher convinces Rock Shox to design a 29-inch compatible version of the Reba. Retrospectively, this is considered to have become the turning point for 29ers.

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2005-2007 Most major brands continue to dismiss 29-inch bikes as a fad and continue putting their R&D into 26-inch models ranges. 2008 Those same major brands begin to realise that with increased availability of tyres, suspension forks etc, 29-inch bikes could well be here to stay and begin R&D into creating 29-inch model ranges. 2009 Smaller brands start doing impressive numbers with 29-inch bikes as top racers, mostly in the USA, begin topping podiums on 29ers. 2010 Virtually every major bike brand adds a 29er model – or models – to its range, with fine-tuned versions made for the 2011 model year.

FOR INFO & ENTRIES: info@ advendurance.com ww

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TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Feature PHOTO: Craig Dutton

The 3-inch (75mm) difference in wheel size, may sound small, but it makes a big impact on the ride feel. More and more wheel, tyre, tube and fork manufacturers are now firmly focused on the growing 29-inch bike market.

36 |

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8/10/10 3:57:00 PM


OTHER 29er QUESTIONS OUR TESTING ANSWERED

MTB SERIES

Feature

But can you wheelie a 29er? Yep. Actually we found they wheelie really well – more stable than a 26-inch bike we reckon. Just need a slightly bigger lift/pedal effort than with the 26-inch bike to get it to the sweet spot. Do 29ers fit on bike racks okay? Yes, not much different to 26-inch bikes when it comes to transporting them. Do they feel as different as they look? No, not significantly. When you’re on the 29er you feel a little higher up perhaps (and that’s because you are!), similar to a being on a road bike (apparently). Is it difficult to get spares for 29ers? Well, the only real differences are the rims, spokes, tubes and tyres. The fork is different too, but less likely to need replacing. Obviously 29er spares aren’t as widely available as those for 26-inch bikes, but that’s improving by the month! Don’t the heavy wheels make it harder to get going? Well, on the bikes we used for our comparison, the 29er wheels weighed a combined 5080 grams, while the 26-inch bike’s wheels weighed 4140 grams. Accelerating from tight turns and low-speed sections of trail did seem a touch slower on the 29er, but once it got rolling, it made up for that. Surely the gearing is different because of the difference in wheel size? Both bikes were specced with 22/32/44 chainrings and 11-34-tooth 9-speed cluster. We found we needed to ride lighter gears on the 29er than the 26-inch bike, especially at higher cruising speeds. The tech gurus tell us that because the 29er wheels are approximately 10% larger than 26-inch wheels, to optimise 29-inch bike gearing to be similar to 26-inch bike gearing, you need to increase the cog sizes by 10% or decrease the chainring sizes by 10%. Switching the cassette from an 11-34 to a 12-34

MTB SERIES

should get you most of the way there. It’s currently more complicated fitting smaller chainrings due to crank design limitations, which will probably improve with the growth of the 29er category.

DUAL SUSPENSION 29ers The ride of a 29er hardtail has similar characteristics to that of a dual

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suspension 26-inch bike. The bigger volume tyres offer a good bit of cushioning over small bumps and grooves. And because it rolls more easily over rougher terrain, like stones, rocks and ruts, the 29er hardtail goes some way to mimicking the smoothness of a dual suspension 26-inch

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bike. And this is why many believe that for most types of riding, rear suspension isn’t that essential on a 29er. Up until last year, full suspension 29ers were considered too heavy to be fast. But the introduction of the Gary Fisher Superfly 100, a full-

info@advendurance.com | advendurance.com

carbon dual susser weighing under 11kg changed that perception. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Feature Are 29er’s faster? The physics behind the big wheels

Now to the core of the issue, the secret behind the big wheel: contact angle. Contact angle is simply the angle created by the tyre and the ground. A 29-inch wheel has a lower contact angle to the ground than a 26-inch wheel because of the larger diameter. Because of the lower contact angle the 29-inch wheel will cover bumps, rocks, ruts and other obstacles with ease. The 26-inch wheel has a harsh contact angle and will not climb over these obstacles as gradually as a 29-inch wheel. This more gradual climbing nature of a 29er means less energy lost to conquering terrain features. The larger wheel diameter also means that the 29er will not hit every minor bump and rut. Now don’t confuse this with the contact angle principle; the larger wheel simply skips over ruts and bumps. Because the 29er can conquer technical terrain features more easily, less energy is lost to impact with the terrain, and more is preserved in the momentum. Also less energy is required to maintain a current speed, so less energy is required to maintain the level of momentum.

It is easy to see here that the angles created by the 29-inch (red) wheel are much smaller those created by the 26-inch (green) wheel. Note that the 29-inch wheel will conquer the rock and the pothole with less loss of momentum than the 26-inch wheel.

All-in-all 29ers do indeed carry their momentum better than 26s in any technical terrain. Another consideration is momentum capacity. On the trail we have certain sections where we feel comfortable only riding at or below a maximum speed. For instance a very technical, flat run with big exposure might cause us to dial down our speed even though we easily have the energy to go faster. Because a 29er is a bit heavier than its 26-inch equivalent, the momentum equation shows us that the 29er will carry more momentum than the 26-inch when they are both traveling at the same speed. Article courtesy: www.mtobikes.com

The TREAD Verdict There’s no doubt about it, the 29er offers a new aspect to mountain biking. The hardtail 29er certainly fills some gaps that have been left in the 26-inch bike category. Additional confirmation that the bigger-wheeled platform is here to stay is the fact that all the major brands have begun producing 29ers. The concept undoubtedly has reached critical mass. By Matt Brady

Now it’s time to embrace it. Well that’s our feeling. Our test team, which included some 29er skeptics, including the TREAD Editor, went

Are 29er’s really faster? The simple answer is yes, here’s why: I hear

into this ‘investigation’ with some negative preconceived ideas about

a lot of talk about momentum whenever 29ers come into discussion.

29ers. But they all showed varying levels of conversion by the end.

It is in fact true that 29ers carry momentum better than 26’s but

We believe that there will always be 26-inch bikes and that there isn’t

for different reasons than you may think. In classical mechanics,

anything wrong with them. But we do believe that the 29-inch format will

momentum is equal to mass multiplied by velocity.

grow substantially over the next few years and may even become bigger

Let’s say we have a 26-inch bike and a 29-inch bike, both made of

than the 26-inch format at some point.

the same components. The 29er will naturally be a bit heavier due to

For the majority of South Africans that participate in marathons and

the bigger frame to accommodate the wheels, as well as larger wheels,

stage races, we still reckon you can’t go wrong with a dual suspension

tyres and tubes. If we look back to our momentum equation, if both

26-inch bike. However if you’re serious about your racing, you should

bikes traveled at the same speed the 29-inch bike would carry more

consider a 29er hardtail as an alternative racing machine. Expect to see a

momentum because of the extra weight.

considerable growth in the number of 29ers at the 2011 Absa Cape Epic.

However because of this extra weight, more energy would be

And we also believe that for those starting out in mountain biking, a

required to maintain the same speed as the 26-inch bike. In other

29er hardtail is a good option due to the way it rolls better than a 26-inch

words if a rider using the exact same effort rode each bike, the 29er

bike over more tricky terrain and is more stable overall.

would actually be slightly slower than the 26 because of the extra

Different wheel size; different ride feel; same fun!

mass. But the big picture is not quite that simple…

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Feature

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Feature

Your TREAD subscription….

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All you have to do is subscribe to TREAD

K, not quite, but we’ve got something just as good. Subscribe now and receive a R180.00 voucher from Barcelos, the grilled chicken franchise which believes in healthy living and healthy eating. With nearly 65 outlets countrywide, TREAD readers can sign up for a full year’s worth of the only national South African mountain biking mag… and then have a great meal on the house at Barcelos. Visit www.treadmag.co.za take out your subscription now. And receive your Barcelos voucher for R180.00 with your next edition.

magazine, ride your bike to fuel your appetite and head off to the nearest Barcelos outlet armed with your meal voucher. Find your nearest Barcelos franchise here: www.barcelos.co.za/franchise-locator.php

How to subscribe or renew your subscription: Visit www.treadmag.co.za, fill in your details, pay your cash (securely), and keep an eye on your postbox where you’ll find the latest TREAD magazine that will include your Barcelos meal voucher. Use your Barcelos voucher to fuel up for your next ride, or to put a smile on the family’s faces.

MAGAZINE

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40 |

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 40

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8/10/10 3:20:55 PM


NE W

INNER SOUL

Feature

TREAD SKILLS In Partnership with

Cult cycling We

know inspiration is something best taken in regular doses – like on a daily basis. Our website is geared to give you fresh, interesting, informative content to ensure inspiration becomes part of your daily life. It’s also our window to your world and interaction is strongly encouraged. So without delay, bookmark www.treadmag.co.za and...

TREAD and Cult Cycling have teamed up to bring you a comprehensive series of educational modules to master the sometimes tricky art of looking like poetry for the illiterate on a mountain bike.

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M–eet our top editorial team A–sk our experts anything G–ive us feedback and stand a chance to win a spot on a TREAD bike test or trail trip

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WWW.TREADMAG.CO.ZA TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 41

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8/11/10 6:29:09 AM


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Club Benefits

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TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 42

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

The Academy operates out of Johannesburg, Nelspruit, Cape Town and Durban. The Academy caters for youngsters throughout SA from under 12 to 25 years of age. The Academy has a professional under 23 team. The best of these youngsters will be racing in Europe with the aim to making a career of cycling in Europe as a Professional Cyclist.

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8/10/10 3:21:03 PM


Industry Focus

Who is behind: Dryland? By Donovan Jackson

The Southern Cape boasts some of the country’s best and most distinctive mountain biking trails. It tends towards the dusty and the dry, with the unique, lonely beauty of the Karoo as a stark backdrop. Luckily for the rest of the mountain biking world, they also have one of the most thorough event organisers in Dryland, which brings us great events like the Attakwas Extreme Challenge, and more recently, the Cape Pioneer Trek. TREAD found out more from Henco Rademeyer, who, together with Carel Herholdt, is the man behind Dryland Event Management. What races do you organise?

an informed decision. However, I do think

Apart from the well known DCM Cape Pioneer

organisers are going to have to look at new

What makes the Attakwas/Pioneer different?

Trek and MTN Attakwas, we also do the Red

and innovative ideas to keep costs down;

You shouldn’t ask me, ask the riders. But let

Stone Hills trail running and mountain bike

this will benefit everyone in the long run.

me try and answer on their behalf: these

race, and the Chandelier Mountain Bike Challenge. There are some new and exciting events on the horizon...

What makes a great race? It is very simple, keep your customers happy and they look after the rest.

(

“...these events belong to the riders, we take their input very seriously, and I think the success lies in the interaction with riders at the start, water points, and after the race.”

)

How important are sponsors to getting an event off the ground?

events belong to the riders, we take their

The financial contribution of a sponsor is

lies in the interaction with riders at the

You have to compare the price you are paying

very important in launching a new event.

start, water points, and after the race. Both

to the service you receive. It’s similar to

A lack of capital in the early years can

these events create a sense of journey with

the hospitality industry where star ratings

inhibit growth and ultimately result in an

regards to the start and finish always being

correlate to the costs. With many events to

event’s demise. On the other hand, nothing

in a different location, and a dynamic ever-

choose from, riders at least have a measuring

stimulates creative ideas like a lack of

changing route. There is nothing better than

stick to compare events and costs to make

capital!

starting an event knowing that there is a

We hear a lot about the high cost of racing. Are high entry fees justified?

input very seriously, and I think the success

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Industry Focus What are the rewards for a race organiser, other than any potential monetary ones?

journey ahead. While you know the general

New additions include Mossel Bay as a stage

direction of the route, it is only when you

location...

cross that last mountain top and see your

method in the madness. Both events also have

You’re known as someone with almost fearsome attention to detail. What’s this mean for the riders in your events?

a strong social responsibility element. We

Fearsome is probably taking it too far, but

up to you and tells you how his participation

associate with several different community

thanks, it sounds like a compliment. I like

changed his life or when a school has generated

partners at the DCM Cape Pioneer Trek, and at

detail, it shows the riders we care about their

enough revenue to support some needy scholars

the MTN Attakwas we partner the Vryburgers,

riding experience and safety. I think the detail

– that is true reward. Money has never been the

a locally-based charity organisation.

lies within the team at Dryland.

The Pioneer is coming up soon; it’s the second edition of the race. What’s changing, what’s new, what stays the same?

Tell us what can go wrong when organising a major event...

motivating factor for us at Dryland.

planning stages in the 10-12 months leading

Joberg2C has just run its course for the first time in 2010. Is there enough space on the calendar for all the events we’re seeing?

The route will definitely change, this year

up to the date, and then the actual days of

I believe so; it is a question of supply and

and for every year to come. Katot, our route

racing. During the planning phase there is

demand. If you as a race organiser can constantly

designer, wants to keep it new and fresh each

usually enough time to make corrections, but

supply that which the riders demand, then you

year, and he demands a top quality route – he

the crunch time comes during the event when

will stay in business. The stronger will prevail.

will rather make us change a town at a late

a crisis can arise. I think the biggest challenge

Give your customers constant quality service,

stage than give riders a substandard route.

lies in those things you cannot control; for

new and exciting routes, and make them feel

The race has to fulfil that sense of journey I

instance when you have severe flooding or

safe and at home, and you will be fine.

mentioned earlier. Our new start venue will be

a runaway veldfire during a race. One can

Chandelier Game and Ostrich show farm near

overcome most challenges, but where rider

For more on what Henco and his team

Oudtshoorn. Immediately, this gives us access

safety is at stake, then things can seriously

are up to, visit www.dryland.co.za

to the Attakwaskloof, the route for Stage 1.

go wrong.

the days’ effort is realised. There should be

There are two facets to an event. The

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44 |

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 44

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

The thing that outweighs the monetary gain by far is the recognition from riders and community partners after an event. When someone walks

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destination below that the real worth of

8/10/10 3:21:06 PM


Feature

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 45

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8/10/10 3:21:06 PM


2 0 1 0 © S R A M , L LC

Marco Aurelio Fontana, Nino Schurter, Julien Absalon

THE RIGHT GEAR The world’s top MTB athletes have chosen SRAM 2X10. SRAM 2X10 delivers maximum functionality and minimum complexity with faster shifting, more efficiency, lighter weight, and simplicity across a full range of gears. Taking advantage of technologies like X-Glide shifting, X-Dome cassettes, and wide range gearing, SRAM 2X10 gives you a drivetrain ready for any XC, Trail or All-Mountain adventure. SRAM 2X10 doesn’t mean more gears, it just means The Right Gear, right now.

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2X10 Ad_2.indd 1 TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 46

4/29/10 3:28 PM 8/10/10 3:21:07 PM


Advice

STARTING OUT Removing all mystery from mountain biking Compiled by Tim Brink

Think about whether you really need a full, heavy hydration pack.

NUTRITION

SKILL

GEAR

When you start out mountain biking, you

LOOK WHERE YOU WANT TO GO

are unlikely to want – or need – to ride for

Ever noticed how you will always ride into

Specialized Align R630

more than an hour and a half at a time.

that one exposed rock or low tree branch,

Two hours, including stops, to take in the

no matter how hard you concentrate on

views maybe. Why, then, would you want

missing it? Think of it the way a rabbit does

to mix up two or three litres of high-carb

headlights: get stuck on the oncoming

energy drink, slap its bulk on your back and

danger, and bunny stew is on the menu;

complement it with a handful of energy

focus on the safe zones on either side of

bars and sachets? The reality is that an

the evil human, and bunny hops off to do

hour and a half is just about the threshold

what bunnies do best. So, the best way

where you can happily ride on plain water,

to avoid trail obstacles is not focusing on

and you will only need one 750ml bottle

them at all! You should be scanning the

(or the same amount) decanted into your

trail as far ahead as you can – up to 10

hydration pack. And carb-crazy energy

metres for every 10kph – and not fixating

Specialized’s helmets meet all the required

drink will only help you on the drive home

on individual impediments. Plan where

safety standards, and a few more, without

– you will be running on the energy you

you want to go (not where you don’t want

sacrificing style or comfort. The Align is

got from breakfast, so leave the snacks

to go), accept the plan, move onto the

light on your head, comes with reflective

behind. Losing two kilos or more, you will

next plan, and by the time your wheels

webbing, for that dash home from the

instantly feel lighter and faster. And justify

reach the trouble spot, your instincts will

forest after your past-work ride, and one

the slice of chocolate cake with the post-

guide you through safely.

of the simplest strap-adjustment systems

LESS IS MORE

ride espresso.

3 GOOD BUDGET-PRICED HELMETS

on the market. We like the extra-deep TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

| 47

:28 PM TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 47

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Advice protection on the rear of the helmet, which can come in useful in low-speed learning-to-ride falls! www.specialized. com Bell Slant R755

Perfect for South African mountain biking, with large vents – 21 of them in all – keeping your head cool in the blazing sun, and four decades of experience keeping heads safe. The fitting system is supereasy, and comfortable, and the visor is removable, should you ever want to cross over to the dark, tarmacced side. www. bellbikehelmets.com Lazer X3M R499

The Toyota MTN Cycle Park in Bryanston is safe enough for women to ride alone, any time of the day. Photo: DOMINIC BARNDARDT

Just when we thought Bell had been at it

purpose-built trails, a wide perimeter

on offer too. The only challenge is to get

for a while, along comes the Italian Lazer

road, on-site mechanic, medics and a

there, and that is a physical, not technical

company, which has been making helmets

Seattle Coffee. Start with the Green trails

issue. The climb up the main forest road,

for 90 years! The X3M is its entry-level lid,

and progress to the Blue as you become

which leaves from the entry gate, is a long,

but is as stylish as any of their top helmets,

more confident. Open from dawn until

exposed one, but with a look-at-the-view

with 13 vents to keep you cool, and one

dusk the park is the perfect pre- or post-

stop or two, it is manageable. The good

of the neatest visors around managing

work riding spot. If your friends/family

news is that once you have made the first

to keep the sun out of your eyes without

members are more experienced, they’ll

1.5km, the road splits, and a final burst of

making you look like Barry Manilow. www.

be properly challenged by the variety of

energy as you veer right, around the tight

lazersport.com

Blue and Black trails, which are constantly

corner, will pop you out onto a network of

maintained to ensure the park lives up

wide, open logging roads. There is plenty of

to international mountain bike park

variety, just on these major thoroughfares,

TRAILS GAUTENG

The Toyota MTN Cycle Park in Bryanston offers everything a newcomer needs – personal safety, single-direction,

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standards. www.cultcycling.co.za

to keep it fun and to learn on, and then

WESTERN CAPE

there are always the tempting deviations

Tokai Forest is a Mecca for mountain bikers

into the limitless single-track sections that

of all abilities. Don’t be intimidated by the

interconnect everywhere. The way back

tattoo-crew unloading their DH bikes in the

down the hill is super-fast, so take it easy.

car park – there is plenty of novice riding

www.sanparks.org.za

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Advice KZN Holla Trails is fast becoming the place to ride in KZN, with a great mix of trails, from beginner to nutter, on offer. The riding is a mix of open-road (Gravel. Of course) stuff through the sugar cane fields, forest-canopy paths and trails and even some North-Shore-type bridge and boardwalk trails, for the braver/ younger/’experienced’ riders. For starters, Holla’s green route is a 15km, relatively flat ride, with some tricky sand sections to catch the unwary, and plenty of opportunity to cut the ride short if you are struggling (the summer heat can be oppressive!). Next up, once you have some fitness, tackle Holla’s red or orange routes, both of which are short enough (28km and 13km, respectively), but slightly more technically challenging. www. hollatrails.co.za

RACES

Mongoose Tyax Super

fork. www.omnico.co.za

WESTERN CAPE

Serfas XC3 R7 995

Giant’s aluminium frames are super-robust,

Wellington Gravel Travel: 28 August,

A triple-butted aluminium frame, which is

without weighing a ton, and the Terrago is relaxed and fun – perfect for learning

Diemersfontein Wine Estate 30km option offers a good mix of non-

your craft. Suntour shocks, Shimano Deore

technical open road riding, and mildly

components and disc brakes complete the

challenging singletrack – great intro to MTB

package. www.giant-bicycles.com/en-ZA

racing. www.graveltravel.co.za

KWA-ZULU-NATAL Sunday Tribune Jeep Hill2Hill – 15 September – Shongweni Polo Club

JARGON

40km option gives a taste of one of the best events on the SA calendar; terrain is mainly open, and hilly – so make sure you are a little

Hardtail

fit. www.hill2hill.co.za

GAUTENG Redstone MTB Race Series – 12 September –

both light and strong, mated to a 2011-version

Redstone Private Country Estate

27-speed Shimano Alivio groupset, and a

A single lap of the 30km loop, mainly

custom RockShox fork with remote lockout.

on dirt roads and jeep tracks, with a small

Comes with Maxxis/Stan’s tubeless wheelset.

amount of singletrack, makes for a better

Designed specifically for the South African

option than the quite basic 20km route. www.

market. www.serfasbikes.com (see full

redstoneestate.co.za

review on Page 54).

BIKES

3 GOOD BUYS UNDER R8000 Mongoose Tyax Super R5 999 One of the older names in mountain biking, Mongoose hits the spot with this great value

– mountain bike with no rear

suspension

Giant Terrago Disc R6 795

Triple-butted frame

– aluminium

bicycle frame, thickened in areas that undergo significant forces

Lockout

– a switch or lever on the fork

or shock that locks out the suspension movement

Remote lockout – a lockout lever/switch on the handlebar

Tubeless – when the tyre fits into the rim creating a sealed unit, which doesn’t require tubes

Hydraulic disc brakes

– disc brakes

that operate with hydraulic fluid in a sealed unit

aluminium frame, with hydraulic disc brakes, SRAM X5 components and a 100mm RockShox TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Cycling J&J (Pty) Ltd Doing it for the love of the sport

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Gear PHOTO: Craig Dutton

WHAT’S HOT – NOW So mountain biking continues to enjoy global growth and in South Africa we’re seeing a proliferation of new bike and gear brands, established global and local brands embracing new ideas and the maturing of an increasingly discerning mountain bike riding market. It’s all good; but man it’s bit of minefield. Here’s a look at what’s hot for 2011 in terms of trends and technology. By the TREAD Test Team *Gear prices supplied: RRP TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Gear 29-ers Our main feature in this edition should leave no questions unanswered about the acceptance of a bigger wheeled bike. The movement towards 29-inch wheels isn’t new. Mountain biking is just over 30 years old, which means it’s still in a dynamic state of evolution. And in the unrelenting quest to create a bicycle that’s lighter, faster, more comfortable and more stable, almost every major brand has dipped its toes in the 29-er pond. Some have moved beyond just testing the water to wading in waist deep, inspiring designers, engineers and manufacturers with the biggest challenge since rear suspension…

Adjustable headsets Cane Creek has made it possible to adjust your front-end geometry by introducing the AngleSet headset. According to Cane Creek, the AngleSet allows you to transform the head angle of your mountain bike with ease, as the low-stack-height AngleSet offers up to six offset angle adjustments. With steeper or slacker adjustments from 0.5 to 1.5 degrees. The patent-pending design of AngleSet is head-tube length independent and fits most popular head tube standards. A self-aligning feature between the bearings and the steerer tube ensures a perfect fit and makes fork installation a snap.

Carbon fibre frames It’s by no means new, but it’s increasingly becoming the material of choice for mountain bike manufacturers. Aluminium remains the staple, due to its strength and longevity, but new technology in carbon fibre manufacture is allowing for lighter without sacrificing strength and durability. Once the domain of only top-end models, carbon fibre can be seen more and more on mid-range models, never more evident than with the 2011 ‘harvest’, with MTB brands taking the material out of hardtail and short-travel bikes and into longtravel and even DH territory.

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Gear

Hardtails

The hardtail isn’t dead after all. It’s been revived from a coma. There’s a core movement in the UK towards hardtails with long-travel suspension for those wanting to make tame trails more challenging. Because a hardtail doesn’t have the forgiveness of the dual susser, you’re more challenged, especially on unpredictable terrain. And there’s something really satisfying about making your local trail into a fresh challenge. Then there’s the XC and marathon-racing scene where most of the world’s top racers are still on hardtails. Stefan Sahm and Karl Platt won the Absa Cape Epic on Bulls hardtails; Max Knox put seven minutes into Kevin Evans and Burry Stander (both on dual sussers) on a 7.5kg Cannondale Flash hardtail at the MTN Barberton Ultra Marathon earlier this year. And of course 29-er hardtails are making a statement that’s difficult to overlook.

Split Pivot Design Dave Weagle, the genius that created the DW-link that makes the rear suspension on Ibis, Pivot, Independent Fabrication and Turner bikes so incredibly efficient, has been awarded a US patent on Split Pivot design, possibly the next big thing in the quest for better rear suspension action. In summary, Split Pivot sees the separation of the chainstays and seatstays in the rear triangle, allowing them to pivot around the rear axle, essentially separating acceleration and braking forces. This opens up design options to place the rear shock in horizontal, vertical or floating positions. Trek’s ABP (Active Braking Pivot) design launched in 2009 is similar and successful enough that Trek is launching a refined version of it on their 2011 dual suspension designs. At this stage, Weagle has licensed the patent to six bicycle brands – Spooky Cycles, Seven Cycles, Devinci and Pivot. The other two brands, expected to be more mainstream, were scheduled to be revealed at Eurobike in September.

10-speed shifting

At first, 10-speed was SRAM’s way of gaining oneupmanship over the global accessories giant that is Shimano. And that was only last year… Those Japanese only look like they’re half asleep because a year later, they don’t just counter by introducing 10-speed, they do so on three of their groupset models – SLX, Deore XT and XTR. And in their own advance in the one-upmanship battle, they hit the market with triple-chainring 10-speed. Of course when we say 10-speed, we’re just referring to the cluster with its 10 sprockets – so SRAM’s weighing in with 20 gears and Shimano with 30. That’s a choice of 30 gears on one bike. Incredible. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Tested

SERFAS XCR 3 | R7995 Serfas calls it “the Ultimate South African Bike”,

Alivio 2011 set-up.

upgraded package and freeing up cash for

designed and specced specifically for the needs

THE RIDE

decent pedals and shoes.

of the majority of the local recreational riding

To eliminate prejudice, we never weigh test

GEOMETRY

market. A unique approach considering this

bikes until we’ve finished riding them and

SIZES: S, M (tested), L, XL

country forms only a tiny part of the global

were surprised that the XCR3 tipped the scales

TOP TUBE LENGTH: 580mm

market, but an approach, which, judging by the

as high as 14kg. While it felt a little weighty

SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 457mm

increasing growth of the budget-wary entry-level

when we first did the old two-handed lift,

HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 71 degrees

category, could well succeed.

it certainly didn’t ride with any noticeable

SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 73 degrees

THE BIKE

sluggishness. In fact it climbed with a measure

CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 427mm

The downtube and toptube of the hydroformed

of agility and accelerated smoothly under

WHEELBASE: 1061mm

triple-butted 6061 Series aluminium frame

pressure. The neutral geometry (71-degree

SPECS

have curves in the all the right places to give

head and 73-degree seat), responsive fork and

PRICE: R7 995

it strength and stiffness. It also gives the frame

predictable braking all combined well to make

COLOURS: White; Gloss Black

a more refined look than the straight-tubed/

descents controlled and quick, while cornering

WEIGHT: 14kg without pedals

gusseted bikes most common at this price point.

stability was very good. We found the saddle

FRAME: Hydroformed, triple-butted 6061

Our test bike was white, a colour that unwittingly

quite spongy, but then for a newcomer, a

aluminium

carries the strongest ‘wash-me’ reminder of

bit of extra comfort is always welcome. The

FORK: Rock Shox Toro 100mm travel with

all. We appreciate the thought that’s gone into

shifting was faultless and surprisingly crisp for

remote lockout

colour-coding the rims, stem, saddle, fork and

a ‘recreational’ groupset – it just shows how

GEARS: Shimano Alivio 2011

brakes (all white) and grips (red). The fork is an

far technology has advanced in the past few

BRAKES: Shimano M445 hydraulic disc with

air-damped Rock Shox Toro with 100mm of travel

years. It’s worth noting that where other bikes

160mm rotors front & rear

and remote lockout. The hydraulic disc brakes

in this price range spec no-name hubs, Serfas

CRANKSET: Shimano Alivio 2011 44/32/22

on our test bike were Tektro Auriga Comp, but

has gone with Shimano’s M475s both front and

WHEELS: Alex DP17 rims, Shimano M475

we had an early factory release bike. The XCR3

rear. Know this: good hubs roll more smoothly,

hubs

will come standard with the more respected

which means less effort in your pursuit of

TYRES: Maxxis Crossmark Lust tubeless 26 x

Shimano M445 hydraulic disc brakes (in white!).

fun.

2.1 front & rear

The tubeless-ready wheelset comprises Alex

THE VERDICT

COCKPIT: Serfas alloy bars, stem & seatpost;

DP17 rims, Shimano hubs and Maxxis Crossmark

Tubeless tyres with conversion kit, hydraulic

Serfas Tegu saddle

Lust tyres and comes with a Stan’s tubeless

disc brakes, air-damped fork with remote

CONTACT: www.twowheelstrading.co.za;

conversion kit (valued at R700). Quite a set of

lockout on a sub-R8000 bike – very impressive.

highlights for an entry-level bike! The bars,

Serfas has taken value-for-money to a new

stem and seatpost are, not surprisingly, from the

level in South Africa. The XCR3 is the ideal

Serfas stable, while the gears are a full Shimano

entry-level bike, giving the buyer an already

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Tested

PHOTO: Craig Dutton

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Tested

SCOTT SCALE 30 | R22 900 It wasn’t easy, but we made a plan to get

one tubular unit with carbon dropouts. The

seatpost plushness (as used by some other

hold of the first 2011 SCOTT Scale 30 that

rear disc brake mount has been moved inside

brands) isn’t effective when the rider is

landed in the country. Nino Schurter won

the rear triangle to remove braking forces

standing on the pedals, which is on descents,

the 2009 World Championships on a SCOTT

from the seatstay, which is now oval shaped

through most turns, when accelerating and…

Scale, which is fast-becoming a legendary

in order to offer some vertical compliance

come to think of, seated time is very limited

race model.

(comfort/give). In the main triangle, there’s

on a racing XC bike. Braking and shifting

THE BIKE

increased integration of the tubes using

were both predictable and sharp. SCOTT has

For starters, SCOTT, known for it’s unrelenting

SCOTT’s IMP (Integrated Moulding Process),

definitely achieved a new level of performance

pursuit of making bikes lighter, has shaved off

which results in a lighter, stiffer frame than

with its 2011 design improvements.

over 30 grams on the frame of it’s flagship

the 2010 edition.

THE VERDICT

model, the 899, which is named after it’s

THE RIDE

Light, stiff, agile, a little give in the right

weight – 899 grams, making it the lightest

The incredible stiffness when accelerating

places. What more could you want from a

hardtail frame in the world. The Scale 30,

and climbing didn’t surprise us because

hardtail XC race bike? Perhaps something even

the lowest model in the Scale carbon range,

we expected that from a bike with such

lighter, but expect to pay a small fortune for

boasts a similar frame, which looks striking

advanced race pedigree in its DNA. What we

those saved grams as you move up the SCOTT Scale range (over R80000 for the 7.48kg Scale 899). For most XC racers, the Scale 30 offers all you need in a high-performance race bike – at a reasonable price. GEOMETRY SIZES: S, M, L, XL TOP TUBE LENGTH: 595mm SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 450mm HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 69.8 degrees SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 73.5 degrees CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 422mm WHEELBASE: Not given SPECS PRICE: R22900 COLOURS: Matte charcoal and white WEIGHT: 10kg FRAME: Integrated Moulding Process (IMP) carbon fibre FORK: Rock Shox Reba RL 100mm travel with

with a mostly matte charcoal and white

were impressed with is the cornering, finding

remote lockout

colouring, with some subtle naked carbon

ourselves able to really attack singletrack

GEARS: Shimano Deore XT 10-speed

‘windows’ in selected high-visibility sections,

curves with aggressive speed and not feel

BRAKES: Avid Elixir R hydraulic disc with

such as on the top of the top tube. The thought

like we might overshoot, or slide out, at

185mm rotor front & 160mm rear

that went into the detailing is impressive,

any second. Could it be the additional bit

CRANKSET: Shimano Deore XT 42/32/24

with the white curved decaling emphasising

of ‘give’ in the rear stays, helping add some

WHEELS: DT Swiss XR30 rims and hubs

the 2011 frame’s sleeker lines. White pedals,

‘bite’ in the bend? Hard to tell, but we liked

TYRES: Schwalbe Rocket Ron 26 x 2.1 front

fork, brakes, saddle, stem, grips and hubs

the feeling regardless. Descending didn’t

& rear

complete a classy package. The Rock Shox

throw up anything noticeably exceptional

COCKPIT: SCOTT Hot Rod OS flat handlebar,

Reba fork has 100mm of travel with remote

but we did find it useful to have remote

SCOTT Comp OS stem, SCOTT RC seapost,

lockout. The wheelset comprises DT Swiss

fork lockout, which worked smoothly. It

SCOTT Racing saddle

XR30 rims and hubs and Schwalbe Rocket

wasn’t consciously evident, but the vertical

CONTACT: www.probike.co.za;

Ron tyres, while the shifters, derailleurs and

compliance in the rear stays, which SCOTT

041 4048500

crankset are Shimano Deore XT (10-speed).

claims to be 20% more than the previous

A newly designed rear triangle using Tubular

design, would have been in action. SCOTT

Structure sees the chainstays and seatstays as

makes a good point in its observation that

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Tested

Photo: DINO LLOYD

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Since 1972, riders have earned their wings aboard GT Bikes. Tim Bentley earned his by winning the Junior Downhill SA Title on a GT Fury full carbon DH bike. To earn yours, check out the new 2011 line arriving soon.

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BIG •

Tested Photo: TIM BRINK

REVOLUTION As part of our research for our main feature on 29inch bikes, we spent a lot of time test riding 29ers. We reviewed four of them: • GT Zaskar 9R Pro • Niner E.M.D. • Specialized Epic Marathon 29 • Giant XTC29 1

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Tested

GT ZASKAR 9R PRO | R23 500 GT has always reserved the Zaskar name for

to provide is the legs.

FORK: Fox 32RL 100mm travel

its top-end XC machines, and won just about

GEOMETRY

GEARS: Shimano Deore XT Shifters and

every major trophy in world mountain biking

SIZES: S, M(tested), L, XL

derailleurs

in the process. So we were quite keen to see

TOP TUBE LENGTH: 604.5mm

BRAKES: Shimano Deore XT hydraulic

how they would fare, taking 20 years of top-

SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 470mm

CRANKSET: Shimano Deore XT

level design experience, and applying it to

HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 72 degrees

WHEELS: Shimano Deore XT Centerlock hubs/

bigger wheels.

SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 73.5 degrees

Mavic TN-719 rims

THE BIKE

CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 44.45mm

TYRES: Kenda Nevegal 29x2.35

They started by steepening up the angles –

WHEELBASE: 1 087mm

COCKPIT: Ritchey Pro bars and stem; Fizik

half a degree on the head, compared to the

SPECS

Gobi XM saddle; Ritchey Pro seatpost; Crank

Giant XTC 29er we tested alongside it, and

PRICE: R23 500

Brothers Candy pedals

a full degree on the seat, which shortens

COLOURS: White

the cockpit area – so you immediately feel

WEIGHT: 11.35kg, as ridden, incl. pedals

more compact, upright and racey, and

FRAME: Hydroformed Kinesis Superlight

makes the bike slightly more responsive in

aluminium

CONTACT: www.omnico.co.za; 021 691 0110 X C - M A R AT H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E

the twisty stuff. It never feels twitchy – like some pure race rigs do – but that is partly because the larger wheels are so much more stable anyway. It is finished off with a full XT groupset – always the hallmark of a reliable race rig. THE RIDE On the climbs, we loved the aggressive position, and the super-grippy Nevegals (for pure racing, swap them out for something with a little less rolling resistance, maybe the Kenda Karma). Testing bikes in the Cape winter highlights climbing traction, and the Zaskar is as sure-footed as you would ever want over wet roots and rocks. The front wheel stays put, too, but then we haven’t tested a 29er yet that struggled with front wheel lift on the gnarly climbs. Descending fast, open forest roads is fun, but, as with all race-oriented hardtails, requires concentration. But drop into the technical stuff, and you will find that GT has got the fork rake/head angle combination spot on, particularly if you are an aggressive descender. The XT brakes are as powerful as ever, and a perfect complement to the handling – leave your braking to the very last moment, drop the bike through the turn, and hang on for dear life as you shoot out the other side. THE VERDICT This is a totally race-ready 29er; the full XT gruppo is the industry standard for reliability and value for money, the finishing kit does the job perfectly, and the bigger wheels will keep the Zaskar on the podium. All you need

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Tested

NINER E.M.D. 9 | R6300 (frame only) Niner only makes 29-inch bikes. There’s a

and sealed-bearing hubs.

stiffness that the 7005 aluminium frame

whole lot of credibility that comes with

THE RIDE

offers when standing out of the saddle to

that fact, and a refreshingly simple, yet

Can you feel refinement? We actually think

attack a climb, is neatly tempered by the

refined, riding experience on the E.M.D

you can. Of all the 29ers we’ve ridden in

comfort offered by the vertically compliant

(which stands for Eat My Dust).

the past few months, the E.M.D. felt the

s-bend curves in the rear triangle over

THE BIKE

most refined. By that we mean sharp when

uneven ground. Descents were the only

The root beer brown metallic colour is

it needed to be, forgiving when it needed

area we found some room for improvement,

attractive and appropriately earthy. The

to be; smooth, quick, comfortable, fine-

but that would be easy enough to remedy.

7005 aluminium frame is neatly finished

tuned…

Our test bike came with a Pro Koryak, flat

and mated to a Rock Shox Reba fork with

When all those elements fall so neatly

bar, which was fine for short XC-style riding

90mm of travel. Our test bike had the

into place, there’s plenty of space for fun.

descents, but which we’d swop it for a

new 10-speed SLX groupset (look out for

And that’s what stands out most about the

Koryak riser bar for increased control on

an upcoming test), Pro Koryak stem, bars

E.M.D. We enjoyed it on climbs, turns,

more gnarly descents.

and seatpost. The wheelset is from an

rough, smooth – you name it, we enjoyed

THE VERDICT

Australian brand, Velocity, with VCX rims

riding it on this bike. The motivating

There probably isn’t a brand that has as much experience with making 29ers than Niner. That focus shows in the E.M.D, which was the test bike most responsible for the attitude adjustment of the 29er skeptics on our test team. Highly recommended for the discerning rider. GEOMETRY SIZES: S, M (tested), L, XL TOP TUBE LENGTH: 603mm SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 419mm HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 72degrees SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 73 degrees CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 445mm WHEELBASE: 1094mm SPECS PRICE: R6300 (frame only) COLOURS: Root beer; Moondust Grey WEIGHT: 12.5kg FRAME: 7005 Aluminium FORK: Rock Shox Reba with 100mm travel with lockout GEARS: Shimano SLX BRAKES: Shimano SLX hydraulic disc with 160mm rotors CRANKSET: Shimano SLX 44/32/22 WHEELS: VXC Velocity rims and sealedbearing hubs TYRES: Michelin Racer 2.10 front and rear COCKPIT: Pro Koryak bars, stem and seatpost CONTACT: www.coolheat.co.za; 011 608 2003 X C - M A R AT H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E

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Tested

SPECIALIZED EPIC MARATHON 29 | US$6100 (about R55000) Specialized arrived late for the 29er party, but

shifting was slick, but braking wasn’t fantastic,

SPECS

made a big entrance with a race-ready dual susser

but we reckon the brakes were in need of a

PRICE: US$6100 (about R55000)

that’s brimming with podium ambition.

service because we’ve never had issues with

COLOURS: Anodised black

THE BIKE

Avid Elixir-R brakes before.

WEIGHT: 11.9kg

First off, this model isn’t actually being brought

THE VERDICT

FRAME: M5 manipulated aluminium

into the country by the importer. However, it can

Simple really: if we were riding the 2011 Absa

FORK: Rock Shox Reba S29

be ordered if necessary. In our 29er investigation,

Cape Epic, the Epic Marathon 29 would be right

GEARS: SRAM X9 shifters and rear derailleur;

we wanted to sample a top-end dual-susser and

at the top of our wish list! It’s perfectly suited

Shimano XT front derailleur

this one was made available. At US$6100, it’s

to the terrain and toughness of the event. The

BRAKES: Avid Elixir 5 hydraulic disc with 160mm

Specialized’s second most pricey bike…

Epic Comp will be the closest 29-inch model to

rotors front and rear

The M5 manipulated aluminium frame is well

the Epic Marathon that will be widely available

CRANKSET: Rotor XC2 40/26

made with smooth joins. The dropped top tube

in South Africa – it’s less than half the price (R31

WHEELS: Stan’s ZTR 335 29er rims with Hope Pro

offers good stand over clearance, but a tight

995) Look out for a test soon.

II hubs

space below the shock for a bottle, especially for

GEOMETRY

TYRES: Continental Mountain King 2.2 front;

the smaller sizes (we tested a Large). While it’s

SIZES: M, L (tested), XL

Specialized Control 2.0 rear

got an unmistakably Specialized Epic look about

TOP TUBE LENGTH: 596mm

COCKPIT: Thomson Elite seatpost, Ritchey WCS

it, it’s more businesslike and understated than

SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 483mm

flat bar, Aerozine stem

you’d expect from a bike in this price category –

HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 70.5 degrees

CONTACT: www.specialized-sa.co.za;

probably as a result of the sullen anodized black

SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 74 degrees

0861 SWORKS

colouring. It has a 90mm travel Fox SBC Mini-

CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 448mm

Brain shock, which is undoubtedly part of the

WHEELBASE: 1136mm

X C - M A R AT H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E

reason for the high price – well, more accurately the technology that went into creating the ideal suspension platform that has worked so well for Specialized in it’s 26-inch ranges. It weighed in at 11.9kgs which, for Large aluminium-framed dual suspension bike isn’t bad. Specialized claims it can specced to under 10kg. Our test rig belonged to a Specialized customer and sported Stan’s ZTR 335 29er rims with Hope Pro II hubs. The Rock Shox Reba S29 fork had a carbon crown and steerer tube and 100mm of travel with lockout. THE RIDE Specialized has now got Fox to handle its rear suspension after some shortfalls with it’s own Future Shock. We find it more reassuring that a shock specialist brand is now involved. And really, the importance of the rear shock cannot be over-emphasised, especially on a 29-inch bike that’s built for speed. The shock worked like a dream, intuitively switching the rig between comfortable cruise mode and hasty hardtail-like agility – just like it’s designed to do. After some fork adjustment we got the front end sweetly in sync with the rear, which made for some really quick, efficient riding over rough terrain. In fact we found ourselves able to pick out tighter, more rugged lines on descents because they were quicker – the benefits of bigger wheels AND good suspension! Cornering was sure and predictable,

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Tested

GIANT XTC29 1 | R17 995 Giant was one of the first mainstream

THE RIDE

bits too. 29ers have a reputation for being

manufacturers to commit to the 29er

The first impression when you climb

sluggish, but we are becoming more and

‘fad’, with a well-specced, budget-

aboard is how roomy the cockpit feels –

more convinced that is marketing-nonsense

conscious hardtail.

the stock bars are nice and wide, and the

from manufacturers who won’t tool up for

THE BIKE

long-ish top tube, matched with a stubby

it; this was the first SLX-level one we have

Let’s start with the stuff that punches

stem, make you feel like you are on a

properly thrashed, and it was as nimble as

above its price point: the frame is light

free-ride bike. Once you are rolling, it is

any similarly-priced and specced ‘normal’

enough, and stiff, with a slightly relaxed

all hardtail, though, and the stiff, light

bike. It is more than just a racey hardtail,

seat angle and a superb Fox fork, complete

frame makes this a climbing machine of

though, as the 29” wheels offer enough

with a front-end stiffening Thru Axle. Right

note, despite the weight. Short – for a 29er

comfort to turn it into a comfortable all-

on form is the component spec: a mix of

– chainstays and a relaxed seat angle make

day plaything too.

Shimano SLX – bulletproof, but not the

for unlimited traction, and the 29-inch

THE VERDICT

lightest around – and XT, with Avid Juicy 3

Karma tyres, which, on a 26-inch bike,

This is a great bike if you are looking to

hydraulic discs. Speedy Kenda Karma tyres

are pretty much race-only, were happy

enter the 29er market, but are not ready

and a Fizik Tundra perch finish it all off

to attack the gnarliest terrain. Tight and

to commit fully yet. The basic chassis is

nicely. Ripe for an upgrade, however, are

twisty, however, is where this bike excels,

supremely good, and with some careful

the wheels, which are stiff and robust, but

with the smooth Fox fork, super-stiff

upgrading, this is a bike you could race day

add a reasonable amount of weight to the

front Thru Axle and wheels, and wide bar

after day.

package. They are just what we expected

setup allowing the rider to muscle through

GEOMETRY

at this price point, but Giant has done such

rough corners, over roots and rocks, and

SIZES: S, M, L(tested), XL

a good job with the rest of the spec!

keeping it all in shape on the fast, smooth

TOP TUBE LENGTH: 615mm SEAT TUBE LENGTH: 508mm HEAD TUBE ANGLE: 71.5 degrees SEAT TUBE ANGLE: 72 degrees CHAINSTAY LENGTH: 440mm WHEELBASE: 1084mm SPECS PRICE: R17 995 COLOURS: Black/blue WEIGHT: 12.6kg, as ridden, incl. pedals FRAME: ALUXX SL-Grade Aluminium FORK: FOX 32 F29 RL-100 w/15QR Thru Axle and tapered steerer GEARS: Shimano SLX shifters; XT Shadow rear derailleur; Deore front derailleur BRAKES: Avid juicy 3 CRANKSET: Shimano Deore WHEELS: Giant P29 rims; Giant Tracker/ Deore hubs TYRES: Kenda Karma, 29x2.0 Folding COCKPIT: Giant Connect SL bars, stem and seatpost; Fizik Tundra saddle CONTACT: www.dragons.co.za; 021 461 6252

X C - M A R AT H O N - T R A I L - F R E E R I D E

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This vs That

FRICTION FIGHTERS Compiled by Donovan Jackson

A

long time ago, on a trail far, far away, someone came to

degreased with Bike Medicine Golden Degreaser, washed with soap to

the realisation: “THIS ORDINARY 3-in-1 stuff is dodgy!” Or

remove any residue, then coated with lube in accordance with the

that’s how we imagine the folk who make chain lube got

instructions on each bottle of goop. Each lube was assessed on the

the idea that the available oils weren’t up to the task. And

following points, rated from 1-10, 10 being tops.

so an industry was born which has delivered an enormous range of

1. Cleanliness (wet lubes tend to be messy, but long lasting)?

lubes in all colours, consistencies and with various claims of incredible

2. Longevity (how many kays covered before reapplication)?

characteristics. We rounded up some of the more popular locally

3. Effectiveness (how smooth is the drivetrain with this goop on it)?

available lubes and put them to the test.

4. Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions.

Some general findings are that you can’t really buy a ‘bad’ lube, but that there are options out there which will allow you to find the

5. Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions 6. All round suitability for general use (you never really know what

lube that suits your riding best. Even the worst of the lubes is ideal, better even than the ‘best’ lube, for certain circumstances. The other noteworthy finding is that nearly every lube claims to be a lot ‘longer lasting’ than you will experience in reality. And also that you should follow the instructions provided on the bottle for best results.

you’re going to encounter) DISCLAIMER: Bear in mind that these are TREAD’s best approximations of performance: The only thing properly scientific about the advice that follows is the use of the word ‘scientific’ in this sentence. You may, therefore, disagree with our assessment; this serves

How we did it: The test procedure is simple. The chain of a regular bike was thoroughly

as a guideline.

Lube

Cleanliness

Longevity

Effectiveness

Wet/muddy

Dry/dusty

General use

Total

Squirt

8

2

4

3

4

5

26

Pedro’s Ice Wax

5

8

5

7

4

6

35

Motorex Wet Lube

2

9

9

8

10

8

46

Rock n Roll Blue

8

3

6

5

5

6

33

Pedro’s Synlube

2

9

9

8

10

8

46

Boeshield T9

7

7

7

5

7

8

41

Finish Line Wet Lube

3

8

8

8

4

6

37

Bike Medicine Purple Extreme

8

7

7

5

7

8

42

PHOTO: Craig Dutton

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This vs That THE CONTENDERS

worst we tried, but it is also

4. Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions 7/10 (surmised – we did not get to test in such conditions) 5. Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions 4/10 6. All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter): 6/10

one of our favourites.

Motorex Wet Lube

Worst, because it

Somehow, if something – anything

is

– is made in Switzerland,

Squirt As a lube, Squirt is probably the

a

wax/water

emulsion.

Unlike

you kinda assume it’s

oil, wax doesn’t

good. Cheese, clocks,

flow once displaced,

chocolate,

so that means it

accounts – you get

doesn’t

the picture. Motorex

last

long

bank

at all. Reapplication

doesn’t disappoint.

should happen frequently

Its Wet Lube is our

or you’ll be squeaking around

top choice for racing,

the place in no time. We love Squirt,

whether a soggy day or

however, because it is super-clean and has a consistency that makes

a dry one. Why? Slather this

it super-easy to, ah, squirt onto the chain. After a ride, you can wash

stuff on your chain heavily and

and rinse your chain with nothing more than soap and hot water. It is

it very quickly resembles the Louisiana

found in the top of our toolboxes again and again.

coastline. It’s a mysterious greenish, viscous stuff that lasts long-ish

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

in the wet and really long in the dry. Epic stages saw the passage of

Cleanliness 8/10 Longevity 30km 2/10 Effectiveness 4/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 3/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions 4/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter): 5/10

Pedro’s Ice Wax Ice Wax was quite...tricky... to get onto the chain, a

sometimes 80km or more before it was necessary to reload. It’s evil stuff that really lasts longer than anything else. But it is as messy as a major ecological disaster, even though it’s biodegradable. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

bit of a process really, which

rendered

Cleanliness 2/10 Longevity 50km 9/10 Effectiveness 9/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 8/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions 10/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter): 8/10

Rock and Roll Blue

it not the most

Just the name has us loving Rock

convenient.

and Roll. This is a very ‘light’

We tested it up

lube; it’s almost like a

at King’s Kloof near

solvent. The idea with

Krugersdorp – a dry,

this one is to shake it

dusty day which, to

up then lash loads of

be honest, had us a bit

it onto your chain. Be

disappointed,. The goo, you

indiscriminate. The

see, attracted plenty of dust.

solvent evaporates

There was a visible film of the stuff redly

and lets the suspended

settled on the chain and cassette. While it lasted long – over 50km –

lube particles crawl into

the presence of that dust had us thinking it’s not best for those sorts

the places where they

of conditions.

should. On your chain, that

One thing about this stuff: it’s really hard to get it off the chain

is. This stuff rates highly on the

once it’s on. Not Golden Degreaser, not soap and boiling water, not

cleanliness scale, but not so highly on the

turps. It’s a tenacious gunk which counts against it in the cleanliness

longevity one. It will keep your chain clean and squeak free, but needs

stakes. But, no doubt a consequence of that tenacity, it’s also one of

a reapplication every 30km or so.

the longest lasting lubes we’re ever encountered – the sort you just

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

can’t get rid of. We’d give this the nod to try on really long stage races. 1. Cleanliness 5/10 2. Longevity 50km + 8/10 3. Effectiveness 5/10 (in the test conditions)

Cleanliness 8/10 Longevity 20km 3/10 Effectiveness 6/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 5/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions 5/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter): 6/10 TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Pedro’s SynLube This is, similar to the Motorex Wet Lube, some nasty stuff designed and suitable

Making Cycling More Affordable

for those days when staying in is a distinct possibility. But you’re

Rudy Project Zuma Helmet & Rydon Special

a mountain biker, so you’re out there. Before that, though, you would have busted out some of this green

WAS R4,499.00

NOW R2,399.00 Richey WCS Wet White Cockpit WAS R3,111.00

2011 RockShox Reba RLT WAS R4,850.00

NOW R2,311.00

NOW R3,799.00

ooze and liberally coated the chain with it. Good job, too, because Pedro’s SynLube will keep your chain slick and smooth for a good few grubby miles. It claims to have extreme pressure additives in it, and any fool knows that this is just what you need to get you through the mudpit and over the hill. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Cleanliness 2/10 Longevity 50km 9/10 Effectiveness 9/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 8/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions 10/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter): 8/10

Boeshield T.9 Bicycle Lubrication Owing to the psychological phenomenon

Continental UST Race King WAS R595.00

known

as

‘closure’ (where you read what you want to

NOW R510.00

see and not what’s actually there), we initially

thought

this stuff said ‘Boes Held’, Afrikaans for

Volcan FS2 Carbon Full Suspension MTB WAS R33,500.00

NOW R29,200.00

Bush Hero. Then the importer

explained

that it’s made by Boeing, that company that gave us the jumbo jet, and therefore is awesome. We did briefly consider the fallacy of false appeal to authority, but then thought, ‘what the heck’ and squirted a bit of this high-tech lube onto the chain. It’s a nice, light chain lube, which (worryingly, beware a man for all seasons) claims to be ideal for a range of other applications. Reminiscent, some may say, of 3-in-One. But the Boeshield delivers: it’s clean and pretty long lasting. However, the recommendation is that

• • • • •

Free shipping on orders over R3,500.00! No Grey imports - Full local warranty backing from importers Quick delivery through local courier company 7 Day exchange policy No hidden costs

it should dry for two hours before you go ride, for best results. Chances are that you, like us, lob lube on at the very last minute... 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Cleanliness 7/10 Longevity 40km 7/10 Effectiveness 7/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 5/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions: 7/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter) 8/10

086 199 0001 | info@buycycle.co.za | Making Cycling Affordable

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Feature Bike Medicine Purple Extreme Purple Extreme is new on the South African scene. The one thing that stands out about it is that it is indeed purple and for that alone it deserves to be loved. A synthetic lube, it reminded us immediately of Rock and Roll in nature: it is solventlike and wants loads of it to be applied to the chain (make sure the chain is clean before you lube away). Nice and clean it is; long-lasting it is not. On a MTB in mixed conditions, you’ll do maybe 40km before you’re ready to reapply. The bottle claims ‘hundreds’ of miles between applications, but that’s for cosseted road bikes, not the sort of dirt busting fun stuff we have in mind for the average weekend. Mind you, Purple Extreme did quite well, thank you very much, on a 175km road race, so the claims on the bottle aren’t necessarily inaccurate. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Cleanliness 8/10 Longevity 40km 7/10 Effectiveness 7/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 5/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions: 7/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter) 8/10

BIKE MEDICINE

Finish Line WET Lube (Cross Country) When the boys at Finish Line decided to make this one, they didn’t hold back. They know that when it gets ugly out there, cleanliness isn’t a concern, so they brewed up a viscous mess and described it thus: ‘A heavier, wetstyle lubricant that requires a little more attention to drivetrain cleanliness, but delivers the ultimate in lubricity and protection.’ Lubricity? Apparently, yes. They call it the strongest, longest lasting, most water resistant lubricant in their lineup. We call it a horrible mess that will do a really good job of protecting your drivetrain through proper muck weather. And it comes in a nice small bottle so it can come with on

Emergency medical treatment for your bike

the journey... It isn’t great in dry, dusty conditions, as its gluey nature means it will attract dust and grit. But in the wet, which it is designed for, it’s some properly decent lubrication. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Cleanliness 3/10 Longevity 60km 8/10 Effectiveness 8/10 Ability to withstand wet/muddy conditions: 8/10 Ability to withstand dry/dusty conditions: 4/10 All round suitability for general use (you never really know what you’re going to encounter) 6/10

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 67

BALLISTIC BIKE T

R

A

D

I

N

G

Exclusive Importers and Distributors of Ghost Bikes, ESI Grips, Halo Headband, Chamois Butt’r, Buh Bump, SockGuy, Bike Medicine, Bike Brake, SDG Components and Zero Goo Hydration Dryers. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010 Office: +27 11 023 4478; Email: info@bbtrading.co.za | 67 Website: www.ballisticbiketrading.co.za

8/10/10 3:22:10 PM


Feature

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Gear RUBENA SCYLLA AND CHARYBDIS TYRES Greek mythology buffs will note that the names refer to legendary creatures, which protected a narrow channel of water: Scylla and Charybdis. Get away from the one, and you get too close to the other, hence the expression ‘caught between Scylla and Charybdis’. The more prosaic version is ‘stuck between a rock and a hard place’. You figure out which one sounds more romantic. Anyway, onto the tyres. If you’re caught between the rubber Scylla and Charybdis, you’ll probably have the Scylla up front and Charybdis out rear. Its ‘1 for 3’ technology means Rubena delivers a tyre suitable for tube or tubeless with any rim type. A decent sidewall means reassuring protection, while a fairly soft compound offers loads of grip. Scylla has quite closely spaced knobs arrowing forward; Charybdis, meanwhile, has a similar pattern but wider spacing between the knobs. Low and firm, these knobs also mean predictable cornering. At 500 grams apiece, that’s a very competitive weight. We tried them out in the joBerg2c – that was nearly 800km over varied terrain without a puncture; mud wasn’t a problem, but these aren’t the best ‘rollers’, so long dirt road stuff (not real mountain biking) is probably the biggest drawback. PRICE: R497 CONTACT: www.cyclelab.com; 021 7027880 PHOTO: Craig Dutton

SPECIALIZED VICE HELMET The large vents are an outstanding feature on this classy looking trail lid, not just when you look at it, but when you feel the cooling effect as you whizz along. The lower back coverage gives you a touch more confidence in the case of an unplanned dismount. The dial operated Headset SL adjuster, situated at the base of the back of your head, allows you to tighten or loosen with one hand while riding to make the necessary comfort tweaks. It worked well, even with long-fingered gloves. Like almost all in-molded helmets these days, it’s passed a few minimum safety standards tests and the colour-matched visor has a ‘bolt-on’ look, but is really just a clip system made to look more robust, which we like. We also like the matte black colouring – understated yet stylish. SIZES & COLOURS: S, M, L in white; M, L (tested) in matte black PRICE: R1350 CONTACT: www.specialized-sa.co.za; 0861 SWORKS TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Gear

BARBIERI TYRE SEALANT

From the maker of high quality bicycle tyre inflators like floor pumps, mini pumps and CO2 bombs, comes a pressurised tyre sealant, useful for those times when, well, when you have puncture and want to get going again quickly. We only tried it in tubeless tyres and were pleased with its ability to fill the hole. Expect to add a few pump strokes as it’s not got enough pressure to inflate the tyre too well. It gets the sealant in without fuss though – just shake well, screw the tube onto the valve and release the sealant by pushing the button on top of the canister. PRICE: R96 CONTACT: jjcycling.co.za; info@jjcycling.co.za TIME ROC ATAK XS CARBON PEDALS If you ride regularly in mud and/or have knee concerns, then this is possibly your best pedal option. Mud management has always been a strong point for Time’s MTB pedal system and this model continues that tradition. The ATAC system, which allows separate adjustment of spring tension and foot release, works well, as does the 13°/17° adjustable cleat (just swap the cleats over to the other shoe). Perfect for those with knee issues needing additional float. The sealed bearings are buttery smooth and the seals work really well. We’ve ridden the model up before, with the titanium axle, but actually prefer this model because the steel axle doesn’t squeak like the titanium one tended to. If you’re not used to Time’s system, it takes few rides to adapt to, but becomes second nature and a lot more accurate overall than Shimano’s smaller SPD system. If you choose the bigger float option, uncleating requires a bigger twist, which you also become quickly adjusted to. PRICE: R1335 CONTACT: www.jjcycling.co.za; info@jjcycling.co.za

ELITE BOTTLE CAGE CLIPS Got a bottle cage-mounting problem? This could solve it. Elite, one of the world’s leading bike bottle and cage makers, has bottle cage clips, which allow you to attach a bottle to any reasonably positioned tube with a 25-50mm circumference. Seatposts are the most popular spot for an extra bottle mount. It’s a relatively simple system that’s easy to assemble. The serrated edge nylon straps secure the nylon mounts, while a screw tensioning system gets the fit nice and firm. There are also anti-scratch rubber pads that fit between the straps and your frame or seatpost. The straps sit firm on even the bumpiest terrain and really are a fantastic solution to a recurring problem. PRICE: R150 CONTACT: www.emotioncycling.co.za; 011 2626512

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Gear

ETXEONDO DAILY BIB SHORTS It’s pronounced Esht-chay on’-doh, which means ‘next to the house’. This is because brothers Paco and Marie Jesus started this cycling clothing business in the building next to their home, in the Basque region of Spain. Well funny that because never have we felt so at home in pair of bib shorts as we did in these! We were super-impressed at the comfort and fit of the Daily. We liked the shorter leg, an Etxeondo trademark, but should warn that sizing should be carefully considered as our Medium guy found the L best and our Large guy opted for the XL. But that’s not unusual with European clothing brands, which tend towards sizing down. Our testers didn’t have any complaints whatsoever about the Daily, which is made with nine panels of ergonomically cut and shaped soft, yet durable Lycra with Meryl Skinlife fibres that are claimed to wick away sweat faster. We tested them from late summer through to winter and can confirm they’re as comfortable in any season. The padding is perfect – not too bulky, not too thin, while the big straps are wide with no sharp edges making for good torso comfort. The Etxeondo logo is embroidered in silver across the lower back, adding what some may call bling and others class… SIZES: S, M, L, XL, XXL PRICE: R1950 CONTACT: manny@maestroimports.co.za TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Gear PHOTO: Craig Dutton

ATERA STRADA BIKE RACK

The Strada is a tow-bar mounted aluminium system. It comes standard as a two-bike rack but you can add an additional rail to hold a third bike. Installation on the tow bar is simple. Once in place you then lift a frame, which holds the securing arms, that have rubbery loops that ratchet securely around the bike’s frame. They twist, so can be angled appropriately and they also lock with a key to ensure some peace of mind should you need to leave your vehicle unattended. The base has u-shaped holders for the wheels, which are adjustable, making it possible to fine-tune bike positions to avoid contact. As with most three-bike racks, the bikes are in close proximity to each other and there’s always a risk of scratching or rubbing. We suggest that you put a pool noodle or similar cushioning between the bikes if you are transport three. The rack comes standard with rear lights and a number plate holder, which ensures you aren’t breaking any laws. For storage, the rack conveniently folds up to be quite flat. A well-designed rack that works well and won’t break the bank. PRICE: R5440 (2 bikes); R6300 (3 bikes) CONTACT: 021 7039476

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Gear

LAZER NIRVANA HELMET Mathias and Lukas Fluckiger of Trek World Racing, kept cool heads in hot conditions to win two stages of the 2010 Absa Cape Epic. Keeping their heads cool and protected were Lazer Nirvana lids. The Belgian helmet brand only opted for two sizes – XXXS–M and L–XL – of the Nirvana, made possible largely because of the advanced Rollsys retention system, which cradles your head rather comprehensively, all by rolling a small barrel adjuster on the top of the helmet. Lazer claims this is the most advanced fitting system because it tightens symmetrically with no pressure points. It was noticeably different to other fitting systems we’ve tested and undoubtedly very effective. Lazer says the top-mounted adjuster mechanism frees up the rear of the helmet to accommodate ponytails of riders with long hair – thoughtful. We were sent a L-XL to review and one of our testers that usually wears a medium-sized helmet found it fitted him firmly too. At 260g it’s light and the red and white colours add to its racey looks. The peak is quite short, but some of our testers prefer that and it comes with a carry bag, which is always a nice touch, especially if you travel a lot. SIZES: XXXS–M; X-XL COLOURS: Red/White, Red/Black, Solid Black, White/Black PRICE: R1899

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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Gear

Sweat Block Technology. A watertight, nonslip seal built into each Halo Headband directs sweat away from your eyes and keeps the headband in place, even when saturated. US Patent 6,567,991.

SPECIALIZED ROVAL CONTROL AL DISC WHEELSET It’s all very well wanting a super-light wheelset, but with super-light comes longevity risks. That’s why the Roval Control AL wheelset from Specialized (weighing in at 1575 grams) makes sense to us. It’s light enough for all but the most hardcore XC racing set, but more importantly offers durability and can be used for XC or marathon racing and even some adventurous trail riding. Made from E5 alloy, the rims are tubeless compatible and are mated via DT butted spokes (24

Our simple three step solution. 1: absorb sweat 2: evaporate moisture 3: upon saturation, redirect sweat away from your eyes

in the front and 28 in the rear) to quality hubs – the CNC-machined rear hub has high-quality Swiss-made internals. They’re obviously disc brake compatible and Future Shock (Specialized’s own brand) compatible, but can be used on most makes of bike. We didn’t actually test ride this set, but a few months back put a Roval Traversee Trail Wheelset, similar in weight but, slightly wider and intended for more robust riding, through its paces and were suitably content with its performance and durability no matter what where we aimed it… In our experience, Roval wheelsets offer good quality at a good price and the Control AL is unlikely

Exclusive Importers and Distributors of Ghost Bikes, ESI Grips, Halo Headband, Chamois Butt’r, Buh Bump, SockGuy, Bike Medicine, Bike Brake, SDG Components and Zero Goo Hydration Dryers.

to deviate from that. PRICE: R5300 CONTACT: www.specialized-sa.co.za; 0861 SWORKS

Office: +27 11 023 4478 | Email: info@bbtrading.co.za Website: www.ballisticbiketrading.co.za

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Gear BUZZ SKIPPER BIKE RACK The Skipper is unique in that it is a platform bike rack but does not require a tow bar for mounting. It secures to virtually any vehicle by means of 6 straps that hook onto the boot or hatch (securing points top, bottom and sides. The rack has high-density foam to protect the vehicle at the contact points, which are fairly wide apart making the rack very stable. The bikes stand on the platform, wheels fit into u-shaped holders to prevent movement and the rack has a padded support beam in the centre of the rack, to which you secure the bikes. Mounting the rack on the vehicle and bikes on the rack is a fairly simple process (anyone should be able to do it). However, we did find that if you are using an SUV, the height of the rack may be a problem for shorter people. Once on, the rack is stable and you hardly notice it except when using your rear view mirror. The bikes do protrude above the vehicle so they do catch some wind. For storage the rack folds up or dismantles very easily and takes up very little space. A versatile, well-priced rack suitable for any vehicle. PRICE: R1995 CONTACT: www.buzzrack.com; 011 8059951

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Gear

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Gear SPECIALIZED SUB-ZERO GLOVES Only one of our test team feels the curious need to ride in the dark and cold of a Highveld winter, so we sent him the Sub-Zero gloves to review. Sub-zero temperatures are the norm when you add in the wind-chill factor and our man found the double-glove system did a superb job in keeping his hands warm, which we kind of expected. What is great is that the inner glove, a more-snug fitting mit, is great for chilly, but not freezing rides. Our iceman said he was able to shift and brake with ease, helped by the grippy pads on the inner fingers. “The inner glove also repels water to an extent which makes it ideal for chilly, damp riding conditions,” said Mr. Cool. He said that it took a bit of getting used to having an outer glove that is slightly loose and actually works so well that it makes the hands sweat. But that’s that beauty of this design, because as soon as it’s warm enough, the outer glove can be whipped off and pocketed. SIZES: S, M, L (tested), XL, XXL COLOURS: Black PRICE: R750 CONTACT: www.specialized-sa.co.za; 0861 SWORKS

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My Fitness PHOTO: SPORTZPICS

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My Fitness

Andrew McLean He’s 45 years old now, but Andrew McLean is still a podium threat in any race he enters, often beating riders young enough to be his sons in the process. We waited for a rare rest day to ask McLean about his fitness. By Sean Badenhorst

Y

ou made the conversion from

I can accurately predict my TSS (Training

range of vitamins. It’s not so to say there

roadie to mountain biker quite

Stress Score), which is critical, if you use

aren’t other good nutrition brands, but I find

swiftly. Your technical skills

Power to monitor your training. So even

the Biogen products work for me.

are now above average. Did

when I race and don’t use a Power Tap

On average, how many hours a week to you

you have to incorporate a lot of technical

wheel it is not a problem.

train?

riding in your training/conditioning

You are still an active road racer. What

I train between 12-14 hours a week. For

schedule to achieve this?

percentage of your training is done on the

those that use Power a TSS of between 800

Yes I did, I even built a bike park near

road bike? How much of your training is

and 1000 per week.

(

my house! I was instrumental in the

done on a stationary trainer?

I like to meet my mates and ride outside, even on a bitterly cold winter morning I prefer to be riding outdoors than indoors.

)

Do you do any supplemental conditioning such as yoga or weights or massage? Three times a week I do some cross training, which includes weights and core strengthening work. I also try to run once a week because in mountain biking, dismounting and running are part of racing

establishment of the Toyota MTN Cycle

About 60% of my training is on my road

and I don’t want to be caught unprepared.

Park, which is 1km from my house. It has a

bike. Very little of my training is done on an

You’ve achieved most of your mountain

network of trails that vary in difficulty and

indoor trainer; I really do not enjoy it. I like

biking success in marathons and stage

I spent – and still do spend – a lot of time

to meet my mates and ride outside, even

races. Any plans to do some XC racing?

there working on my technical abilities. I

on a bitterly cold winter morning I prefer

Yes, absolutely, it is spectator friendly and

also converted early to a Gary Fisher 29er,

to be riding outdoors than indoors.

really tests your skills. It’s certainly on my

which has undoubtedly given me a technical

What is your diet like? What do you eat

to-do list.

advantage over the youngsters on their

more of and what do you avoid?

You live in Joburg and team up with Cape

26-inch bikes.

My diet is simple – everything in moderation.

Town-based Shan Wilson for stage races. Do

You’re very specific about your training,

And I mean everything, including beer and

you co-ordinate your training schedule with

basing much of your conditioning on

red wine.

him, or do you each do you own thing?

power training. While this works well for

Which sports nutrition supplements do

We each do our own thing. We both know

road racing, it’s not quite as simple for

you use and why?

what is required to arrive on the start line

mountain biking. How have you solved

I use Biogen. They have a wide range of

in the best possible condition. There is

this?

endurance-sport specific products for pre–

absolutely no need to check on each other,

I have a Power Tap wheel for my mountain

during– and post-training and racing. They

it is all about trust and communication both

bike. I also know my body really well and

also have a very comprehensive wellness

before and during races. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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My Bike

The King’s Steed PHOTO: GREG BEADLE

G

reg Minnaar, winner of more international titles than any other South African cyclist, made more history recently by becoming the first rider to win a downhill World Cup title on a carbon-fibre framed bicycle. The 28-year-old Pietermaritzburg native tells us more about his Santa Cruz Nomad V10.4

Greg Minnaar’s progress on his website: www.gregminnaar.com and find out more about his Santa Cruz bikes at www. santacruzmtb.com

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My Bike You’ve always ridden aluminium-framed bikes. Are there any noticeable differences on a carbon-fibre-framed bike? If so, what? Oh, there definitely are differences and you can feel them. I find the carbon has a lot softer ride than the aluminium and is a bit more responsive on the pedals, which comes down to it being stiffer. The reason for using carbon is more about strength than lightness apparently. But the V10.4 is over 500 grams lighter than the V10.3. Is it notably lighter to ride? Is it noticeably stiffer? The stiffness is certainly noticeable but the weight difference isn’t that evident. Santa Cruz has managed to take off a chuck of weight but still maintain the stability of a heavier bike. You don’t want a DH bike being too light, otherwise you lose that stability, which is key. GT is the only other brand currently making a DH bike from carbon fibre. Do you think carbonfibre is going to be the dominant material of choice for DH bikes in future? I do think it’s going that way. I’ve been hearing recently that ‘bigger’ bike brands are trying to make carbon DH bikes now. I don’t think carbon is the future for DH bikes, I think it’s the present! The VPP lower link on your bike has a flippable oval shock mountain bolt to adjust your suspension between 8.5 inches and 10 inches. Which is your bike set on most of the time and why? To be honest, I have never ridden the V10 on the 8.5-inch travel setting. I don’t feel the need as the VPP linkage does a great job. So I always keep it set on 10 inches. The headtube geometry is adjustable (64-66 degrees on 10-inches of travel and 63-65 degrees on 8.5-inches of travel). Does the angle depend on the type of course you are racing, or do you have a preferred geometry setting? I do change the angle from course to course – normally just slight changes though – but I never make a note of what number of degrees I set it at. I like to set up my bike by feel. What else about the V10.4 do you really enjoy? Well I love the VPP (Virtual Pivot Point) suspension design. It lets you use 10 inches of travel while being able to pedal better than most 6-inch travel bikes. The World Champs course in Canberra last year required a fair bit of pedalling and with Steve Peat and I getting the gold and silver medals on V10 bikes, just confirms the effectiveness of the VPP design. TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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My Challenge

ONE GIANT RIDE

Not one to conform to the norm, Glenn Harrison decided to tackle the annual Freedom Challenge, the toughest mountain bike race in the country, on a singlespeed bike with a rigid fork. What was he thinking? By Glenn Harrison

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“T

My Challenge hey said yes…”

the way – these are then delivered to the

of the more difficult decisions to make was

designated support stations all along the

what gear ratio to use, as you cannot change

about three weeks before

race route, before the start.)

it during the race – after riding a friend’s bike

the start of the 2010

THE BIKE

with a 32x16 gear ratio to get a feel for it, I

Freedom Challenge. It was David Waddilove,

Giant did not have a dedicated singlespeed

eventually settled on 32x17. This combination

the race director, confirming that Giant had

bike in their range, so I had to take a

of gear ratio, big 29er wheels and fast rolling

agreed to sponsor me in an attempt to break

perfectly functional, geared XTC1 29er,

tyres resulted in a bike that felt light and fast

the singlespeed record for the Race Across

strip it of the gears, wheels and fork and

and I could maintain about 20km/h along the

South Africa (RASA), a record set in 2007 by

build up a lightweight, rigid, singlespeed in

flats at a comfortable cadence. I was also

Andre Britz, who covered the 2300km distance

its place. Using a rigid carbon front fork was

able to stand up and pedal it up moderate

in 21.5 days.

not entirely necessary but it was in keeping

gradients, which was encouraging.

The call came through

The next three weeks were a blur: I was

with the way the original record had been

I decided to use a Murray Orthoped Saddle,

going to race on a Giant XTC1 29er but still had

set and it saved a bit of weight. I also had

a locally made product, which had been

to convert it to a functioning singlespeed and

some extras to factor in – a dynamo hub in

recommended by other long distance riders.

get my other kit ready in time for the start in

the front wheel to power a headlight and

This proved to be a wise choice as it was

Pietermaritzburg on the 16th June. I also had

a charging unit to keep my phone charged

really comfortable and resulted in no pain or

to set up a blog and figure out how to post to it

for blogging. This meant building a new

discomfort, even after some of the really long

from my phone so that people could follow the

wheelset. The dynamo hub and charger

riding stretches I ended up doing. All prepped

adventure online.

were ordered from Europe and the Hope

and ready to ride, the bike weighed in at

And then there was the task of preparing

singlespeed rear hub was kindly sponsored

10.3kg and after strapping a spare tyre under

and packing my support station containers

by International Trade, the local Hope

the seat, adding a water bottle with tools and

and getting them down to the race office in

agents in SA.

spares in it and another for drinks, the final

Cape Town in time for them to be dropped off

Never having ridden a 29er before, I

race weight was around 11.5kg fully loaded.

along the route before the race. (Each rider is

phoned around to get advice on tyre and rim

The bike was finally ready two days before

allowed to fill 26 x 2l plastic containers with

choices and once the parts had all arrived,

the start which meant no time for any long

whatever food, snacks, bike spares, maps and

the wheel building was done by Johan

training rides on it so it was all a bit untested

other items they think they may need along

Bornman from Yellow Saddle Cycling. One

but I was fairly confident that there would be no major issues. THE STUFF Since the Freedom Challenge is an unsupported event, apart from whatever you send ahead in your 2l containers, you have to carry everything else with you, either on the bike or in a backpack. Saving weight is important but so is having enough warm clothing as the race takes place in the South African winter and the route takes riders through some of the coldest parts of the country. The weather can change quickly and you need to be prepared to keep riding through the cold, wind, rain and sometimes snow. I rode with an 18l backpack and another 1.5l pouch strapped to my chest. The backpack held a 2l hydration pouch and once fully packed with night clothes, first aid, shell gear, extra base layers, toiletries, extra food and spares, it weighed just over 6kg. The chest pouch held all the items I needed to get to easily on the move – snacks, energy bars and sweets, maps, route narratives and compass, camera, phone and race tracker – and weighed about 1.5kg. Because I was planning to wear the same outer clothes every TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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My Challenge day, I was dependant on doing laundry at the

in the dark. We proceeded up the portage

The next two days went the same way:

support stations to keep them clean but this

together until the village of Vuvu where

start riding early for a few hours before

wasn’t always possible. I was however changing

Blackie then stopped to rest and recover.

sunrise, stop for breakfast at the next

my base layers every day and rinsing them out

I had a quick snack and headed off for the

support station, push on afterwards for

when I could.

next portage over Lehana’s Pass. This three-

more riding, portages, lunch and riding,

Hands and feet are usually problem areas,

hour hike-a-bike takes one straight over the

always racing the sun to get over a tricky

which get cold easily but thanks to the use of

Drakensberg mountains, passing the high

portage or through a tricky navigation

Sealskinz waterproof socks, my feet stayed

point of the whole route along the way at

section before it got dark and then riding on

warm and dry. For my hands I had four pairs of

2700m. Snow and ice lay in patches on the

into the night for a few more hours before

different gloves, a lightweight liner glove, thin

ground from the previous cold front and the

stopping to sleep at a support station.

rubber washing-up gloves, windproof winter

road leading down to Rhodes was slippery

The big days were starting to add up and

MTB gloves and Sealskinz waterproof outer

and wet. But it had been a good day and I

I was now comfortably ahead of schedule

gloves. When temperatures were –10 deg C or

arrived in Rhodes just before sunset.

to beat the record. At this point, I was only

below, I was using all four layers together and

Rhodes to the Baviaanskloof

about 3 hours behind Alex Harris, the overall

still getting cold but most of the time I rode

The next morning was my coldest, leaving

race leader, who had started on the same

with the liners and one outer glove layer.

Rhodes before sunrise it was –10 deg C and

day as me, so I decided to try and catch up

THE RACE

(

later it dropped to –14! I couldn’t feel my

Pietermaritzburg to Rhodes Due to the limited accommodation at some of the support stations, riders start in batches on different start days spread over a week. Our small group of six started on Day 4, which meant that there were other riders ahead of us, and more to come after us. Because the race is a

)

and surprise him. From then on it became

The next morning was my coldest, leaving Rhodes before sunrise it was –10 deg C and later it dropped to –14! I couldn’t feel my fingers and my water bottle and hydration tube froze solid.

fingers and my water bottle and hydration

a bit of a cat and mouse game, some days

non-stop event, riders are not restricted to one

tube froze solid. I actually looked forward

he would pull away from me and sometimes

stage per day and can keep going if they like.

to pushing my bike up the steep hills now as

I would claw back some time on him. This

Rolling out of Pietermaritzburg that morning,

it gave me the chance to warm up but I got

kept me moving along at a good pace and

I was glad to finally be on my way after the mad

really thirsty as I couldn’t drink anything for

made the racing more interesting and fun.

rush leading up to the race. I tried to settle

the first few hours. Once the sun came up,

In an attempt to make up some more

into a good riding rhythm but the terrain made

things improved and I ended up riding until

time, I took a bit of a gamble on Day 11

it difficult on the singlespeed, the hills were

22h30 that night, covering 160km, which

by leaving the Bucklands support station

usually too steep to ride which meant I walked

included three portages and eventually

at 02h00 to try and get over the tricky

a lot. Strong headwinds from an approaching

stopping at another emergency stopover on a

Perdeberg portage in the early morning

cold front made the going even harder and

farm called Moordenaarspoort. The next day I

darkness. It backfired on me though when

left me very tired after the first day’s 105km

was tired so stopped riding just before sunset

I took a wrong turn and climbed up onto a

stage. I had wanted to push on beyond the first

at Brosterlea but the previous day had been

ridge, only to find a huge valley and even

support station but had to stop and rest. Day

a turning point, both physically and mentally

bigger ridge on the other side. Instead of

2 was much the same. My body eventually got

and I now felt ready for some bigger pushes.

going around these, I was tiring myself out

over the initial shock and settled into the task

Leaving well before sunrise the next

going over them trying to follow indistinct

at hand because after an easier Day 3, I started

morning, I wasted some time trying to find

tracks and paths. Working on a compass, I

to feel better and was able to start pushing a bit

the correct path off the Stormberg portage

knew I was heading in the right direction

harder. Day 4 was a great day out with much of

in the dark but the early morning light solved

but definitely not by the easiest route.

the riding being along technical singletrack with

the puzzle. Later in the day I was surprised

Eventually I had to stop and rest and

incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

to see some snowflakes drifting down around

wait for first light to solve the puzzle

This lifted my spirits and I finally found that

me, even though the sun was shining; but to

again. I probably lost 5 hours here but

elusive rhythm.

my relief, they soon disappeared. The terrain

more importantly, I’d blown the chance

After an interesting night spent with local

was also changing, after the Aasvoelberg

of doing a double stage that day. I headed

hosts at an emergency stop near Tinana Mission,

portage at midday, I dropped down onto

slowly across to Cambria, the start of the

I left before dawn the next day. At the start of

the flatter plains near the town of Hofmeyr

Baviaanskloof section and during the day

the day’s first portage, soon after sunrise, I

and the riding surface and average speed

was caught by other riders who had slept

came across another rider, Blackie Swart from

improved. The day ended with a final portage

late and left Bucklands at first light. It was a

Cape Town, who had spent a freezing cold night

in the dark to get to the Elandsberg support

frustrating and demoralising day and it was

camped out in the valley after getting a bit lost

station, where I arrived at 20h30.

totally my own fault.

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My Challenge Baviaanskloof to the finish

The top of Osseberg jeep track

The only way to make up the time lost at Perdeberg was to start early again the next morning and push harder. The next stage through the Baviaanskloof to Willowmore went well and I found myself getting stronger as I came into Willowmore with daylight to spare, so decided on supper and a short nap before pushing on through the night to Prince Albert. Initially, it seemed to be working and I made good time along the sandy roads but at around midnight, the fatigue caught up and I was falling asleep on my bike. I stopped for a quick power nap, no alarm, just sat next to my bike on the side of the road and woke up shivering a few minutes later. Amazingly, the short nap was enough to make my mind alert enough again to continue riding for another hour or more. At some point

The summit of Naude’s Nek Pass

along that road though, it stopped being fun – the road deteriorated into a badly corrugated sandpit and it started to rain. It was probably the worst part of the race for me; a cold, wet night in the middle of the Moordenaars Karoo, with no signs of any life or people anywhere near me. At about 05h00, I came across some thorn trees and lay down under them in the drizzle and slept for about an hour. First light woke me up and I slowly went on to Prince Albert, only arriving there at 14h20. The 165km stage had taken me 16.5 hours. By now my sleeping patterns had been totally disrupted so I saw no problem with another short sleep before pushing on into the night towards Gamkaskloof. I only left Prince Albert at 21h30 but went up the Swarberg Pass on a perfectly clear night, illuminated by the full moon. At about 02h30 I saw some headlights approaching and out

Singletrack at Maparane

jumped Tim James (current race record holder) with hot coffee and biscuits! Not riding this year, he was staying with his family in Gamkaskloof for a few days. He and his son Murray joined me on the hike up The Ladder at sunrise and then said goodbye and headed back down. I pushed on to Rouxpos, where I enjoyed a nice lunch and then on to Anysberg, arriving just after dark after being slowed by a nasty headwind and more sandy jeep tracks. I wanted to keep going to Montagu but realised how tired I was when I nearly fell asleep while eating my supper. So I stopped, had a bath and went to bed. The next morning the wind was still howling so it made for slow progress to Montagu, TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

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My Challenge which became my lunch stop. Pushing on

The start of the Stettynskloof portage

to McGregor, the wind got even worse and eventually I was walking and pushing, even on the flats. Luckily it died down after sunset so I pushed on over another portage section to the Kasra support station and stopped there at about 22h00. I was still 145km from the finish but knew if I started early enough, I would be able to make it by the next evening. Leaving at 03h30, the first portage in the dark went well until my left shoe started falling apart, the sole separating from the upper. A patch-up job with cable ties and duct tape kept me moving but I had to keep fiddling with it every few hundred metres, which was annoying. I got to the last support station at Trouthaven, had a quick meal and carried on to the final hurdle, the Stettynskloof portage. The 8km valley was bathed in sunlight and the rough path made the going through the fynbos much easier. Even my disintegrating shoe couldn’t get me down. I was making good time and knew I would get through the kloof before dark. Once through and back on my bike, the last 30km of riding passed quickly and I rolled across the finish line at Diemersfontein Wine Estate outside Wellington at 20h20 that night. A small group was there to cheer me home, including Alex who had finished the day before. Race director David Waddilove handed me my finisher’s blanket and congratulated me on the new singlespeed record: 15 days 14 hours 20 minutes. For a detailed account of Harrison’s achievement, visit his blog http:// onegiantride.blogspot.com

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By the numbers Day 1: Pietermaritzburg – Allendale 109km / 10hrs30min Day 2: Allendale – Ntsikeni 100km / 15hrs Day 3: Ntsikeni – Masakala 87km / 9hrs Day 4: Masakala – Tinana Mission 95km / 11hrs Day 5: Tinana Mission – Rhodes 85km / 11hrs Day 6: Rhodes – Moordenaarspoort 160km / 17hrs Day 7: Moordenaarspoort – Brosterlea 88km / 9hrs Day 8: Brosterlea – Elandsberg 190km / 17hrs Day 9: Elandsberg – Vanderventerskraal 208km / 17hrs

Day 10: Vanderventerskraal – Bucklands 154km / 13hrs30min Day 11: Bucklands – Cambria 80km / 15hrs Day 12: Cambria – Willowmore 165km / 14hrs30min Day 13: Willowmore – Prince Albert 168km / 16hrs30min Day 14: Prince Albert - Anysberg 215km / 22hrs Day 15: Anysberg - Kasra 153km / 14hrs Day 16: Kasra – Diemersfontein 145km / 17hrs Average distance per day = 142km Average time per day = 14hrs45min Shortest ride = 80km / Longest ride = 215km Shortest day = 9hrs / Longest day = 22hrs

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Nissan MTB Series

Race with Soul

Photos: ZOON CRONJE

I

sn’t it ironic that South Africa’s largest mountain-bike riding population lives in the country’s smallest and most built-up province, Gauteng? Open spaces used for riding over the past couple of decades are disappearing fast, making way for housing

developments, new roads and office parks. And that is why the Nissan Series is so popular and necessary! Five marathon events between June and November give Gauteng mountain bikers the chance to ride on some superb trails, many of which traverse private land, opened up specifically for the events. At the time of going to press, the first three events in the series had been held successfully, attracting (per event) over 500 entries for the marathons (70km) and around 1000 for the half-marathons (35-40km), with another few hundred participating in the 20km fun events. The Nissan Series also doubles as the Gauteng Provincial Series, giving more serious racers the opportunity to compete for championship titles in Elite, Junior, Youth and Veteran categories. For full results of complete events or for more information, visit www.mtbseries.co.za

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Race

Ben Melt Swanepoel grins as he wins the Nissan Diamond Rush

Top roadie, Neil Macdonald, heads for second place at the Nissan Hazeldean

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Race with Soul Adrien Niyonshuti (men’s winner) and Mariske Strauss (women’s runner-up) share a joke at the Nissan Hazeldean

Philip Buys pursues eventual winner, Ben Melt Swanepoel at the Nissan Diamond Rush

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Race with Soul

Fox Mankele Avalanche •

Photo: Courtesy Fox South Africa

A

h, finally. A downhill stage race in South Africa! Imagine that, just point your bike downhill, let go of the brakes and wheeeeee… Okay,

so that’s not exactly how it happened, but the Fox Mankele Avalanche made a lot of sense to a lot of mountain bikers. This was the second edition of the event (held on 10 and 11 July), but the first with a sponsor, confirming the event’s credibility and potential. Riders did two runs each on three stages. The fastest time of the two runs on each stage counted towards the General Classification. Of course the venue, Mankele Mountain Biking near Nelspruit, played big role in the success of the gravity-appreciation event. The purpose-built mountain bike park has some seriously exciting descents, which made for challenging, but fun race action. Interestingly, the overall winner was a XC racer, Bryce Munro, riding a feathery light Cannondale Scalpel. Munro is known for his skills and took the opportunity to show them off, winning all three stages. “It was a bit risky using such a light bike and there were moments where I was on the limit, but it paid off in the end,” said an elated Munro afterwards. There were some flattish sections and the occasional rise on the way down the routes, which had up to 340m of descent in 4.5km, with up to 27m of ascent. Eventual winner, Bryce Munro, is all concentration as he starts one of his runs

“My heart rate was near its maximum at times so it was still a highly physical challenge, but still, loads of fun,” smiled Munro. Elja van Urk won the women’s title. For full results and more detailed event information, visit www.mankele.co.za

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Race with Soul

Dry and dusty conditions were part of the experience

The variety of terrain and vegetation at Mankele gave the gravity-loving participants a superb setting for the event

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Calendar

RACE DIARY

SEPTEMBER

Schedule of South African mountain bike events Place

Date

Race

Discipline

GAUTENG PROVINCE

Distance

Contact Person

Pretoria, Smuts Museum

Sat 4th Sept

NISSAN # 4 Down & Dirty

XCM

60km/30km/15km/2km

Advendurance

Pretoria North, SVJ-Farm

Sat 4th Sept

AmRic-SVJ Series

XCM

30km/15km

Richard Sutton

Fourways, Riversands

Sun 5th Sept

Eqstra Spring Classic

XCM

40km/20km/10km

Tanjent Events

Krugersdorp

Wed 8th Sept

Moonlight Series

XCO

One Hour (1.6km lap)

Lynne Venter

Pretoria, Fountains

Sat 11th Sept

XCO

Deon Steyn

082-320 8878

Krugersdorp, Silverstar Casino Muldersdrift, Kloofzicht

Anatomic High School Series Silverstar MTB Classic

Sun 12th Sept

Pelindaba

Sat 18th Sept

Sat 11th Sept

Kloofzicht Corporate MTB Challenge OUTsurance MTB OUTride

XCM

40km/20km

Cyclingnews

XCM

45km

Rob Jackson

XCM

40km/20km

Cyclingnews

Krugersdorp

Wed 22nd Sept

Moonlight Series

XCO

One hour (1.6km lap)

Lynne Venter

Magaliesburg, Bekker School Magaliesburg, Warthogs Game Reserve Pretoria, Babas Lodge Johannesburg, Northern Farm

Fri 24th Sept

Bekker Bundu Bash

XCM

65km/30km/±15km

Angus Campbell

Contact 083-327 2499 www.advendurance.com 082-901 8703 www.amric.co.za 011-463 2743 www.springclassic.co.za 079-878 5379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za 011-662 2494 www. cyclingnews.co.za 082-550 1628 www.leveragecorporation.co.za 011-662 2494 www. cyclingnews.co.za 079-878 5379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za 084-484 8844 www. bundubashmtb.co.za 082-414 1739 www.cradlequest.co.za 082-490 5061 082-414 8604 www.northernfarm.co.za

Fri 24th - Sun 26th Sept

Cradle Quest

XCM Stage Race

40km/70km/70km

Cradle Quest

Sun 26th Sun 26th Sept

Sept Babas Lodge # 9 Johnson Cycle Works Northern Farm Challenge

XCM XCM

65km/35km 72km/37km/20km

Andre de Beer Kim Johnson/Simon Nash

Parys, Shiloh Shalom

Sat 4th Sept

XCM

60km/30km/10km/5km

Belinda Basson

Bloemfontein Bothaville

Sat 11th Sept Sat 18th Sept

Parys Island Dirtmax MTB Series # 8 Trophy Series 2 Bothaville Wedren

Willie Owlofse 60km/30km/10km

083-256 9724 Willie Stoman

Vanderbijlpark, Vaal Race Course

Sat 25th Sept

BESTmed Campus2Campus MTB

XCM 40km/20km

Cyclingnews

Bronkhorstspruit, Ezemvelo Nature Reserve

Sun 19th Sept

BIKE4BEAST Ezemvelo

63km/25km

Lycaon Logistics

083-657 1551 www.lycaonlogistics.co.za

Weenen, Weene Game Reserve Ixopo, Lynford School

Sun 5th Sept

40km/20km

Brian van der Bank

082-779 8406

45km/25km

Mark Hauff

105km/40km/20km/10km/4km

Hill2Hill Events

079-498 5450 www.lynford.co.za & www.roag.co.za 072-125 2382 www.hill2hill.co.za 083-327 2499 www.advendurance.com 083-659 8605 www.jowettscycles.co.za

Sun 12th Sept

Hillcrest, Shongweni Polo Club Hilton, Hilton College

Sat 18th - Sun 19th Sept

Pietermaritzburg, Ashburton Hilton

XCM

MPUMALANGA

KWAZULU-NATAL

Husquvana Weenen Game XCM Reserve Classic Lynford Clover Super Clas- XCM sic # 13

Sat 25th Sept

115km/75km/45km/25km/ Advendurance

Sun 26th Sept

Jowetts Classic

XCM

45km/25km/10km

Jowetts Cycle Events

Thurs 30th Sept - Sun 3rd Oct

Hilton Experience Stage Race

XCM

Hill2Hill Events

083-447 0698

Sun 5th Sept

St Francis Bay MTB Challenge Club Race # 8

XCM

60km/30km/15km/5km

Fattracks/St Francis

Sat 11th Sept

Rhodes

Thurs 23rd - Sat 25th Sept

Nelsons Creek

XCM XCM

Sunday Tribune Jeep Hill 2 XCM Hill MTB Marathon MTN Fifty Miler XCM # 6 XCM

Francis Bay, St Francis Links Golf Course East London, Pine Forest

Citrusdal, Sportsgrounds

FREE STATE

Sat 4th Sept

EASTERN CAPE

XCM

Amatola MTB Club

Rhodes Extreme Stage Race

XCM Stage Race

Citrusdal MTB Challenge

XCM

WESTERN CAPE

70km/43km/80km

Willem Jansen

50km/30km/15km

Steven le Roux

Fri 10th - Sun 12th Sept

Nelsons Creek MTB Festival FR

Sat 11th Sept

Eight Bells

EN

Oudtshoorn Uniondale-Knysna Showgrounds

Sat 18th Sept Sun 19th Sept

XCM XCM

60km/30km 100km

Essie Eserhuyse Zandile Meneses

Montagu, Rietvlei

Fri 24th Sept

XCM

24-Hour 7km lap

Mitzi Knipe

Oudtshoorn, Gymnasium

Fri 24th - Sun 26th Sept

ODN Moedergemeente Talisman Herald Karoo to Coast Mountain Bike Challenge 24Hrs at Rietvlei Holiday Farm Oudtshoorn MTB Marathon

SR/EN

98km/103km/96km & 52km/48km/60km

Essie Eserhuyse

Tour #3 (25 riders)

600km

Arno Botha

XCM XCM

Wimpie Geyer Stage Race John Filmalter 35km/118km/112km/75km Wimpie Geyer 082-899 8970

Dirtopia Johannes Bisschoff

NORTHERN CAPE

Springbok

Sun 5th - Sat 11th Sept

Kimberley Kimberley, Marrick Game Farm Kimberley

Sat 11th Sept Big Five (5) Thurs 23rd - Sun 25th Sept Marrick MTB Challenge Sat 25th Sept

Marrick MTB Race/Kumba Iron Ore MTB

Polokwane

Sat 4th Sept

Lente Trap MTB Race

XCM

Gaborone, Yacht Club

Sun 26th Sept

Pick ‘n Pay Mokolodi Scorpion

XCM

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 93

Namaqualand Tour

various

LIMPOPO BOTSWANA

60km/20km

083-595 8439 082-412 4606 www.nfscycling.co.za 011-662 2494 www.cyclingnews.co.za

083-760 8968 www.fattracks.co.za 071-140 5549 www.amatolamtb.co.za 082-789 5519 082-829 1033 www.citrusdalmtb.co.za 021-884 4752 www.dirtopia.co.za 082-416 5069 www.hillbillies.co.za 081-279 1065 082-851 3622 www.knysnacycle.co.za 084-549 7700 www.makadasadventures.co.za 084-279 1065 083-95 9038 www.kkkcycle.co.za 082-899 8970 084-250 2082 www.mtb-challenge.co.za

Eugene Laubscher

083-255 9405

Marius de Wet

00 267 71811472 www.gcc. orb.bw

8/10/10 3:24:11 PM


Calendar

OCTOBER Place Pretoria North, SVJ-Farm

Date Sat 2nd Oct

Race AmRic-SVJ Series

Discipline

GAUTENG PROVINCE

XCM

Distance 30km/15km

Contact Person Richard Sutton

Krugersdorp

Wed 6th Oct

Moonlight Series

XCO

One Hour (1.6km lap)

Lynne Venter

Krugersdorp

Wed 20th Oct

Moonlight Series

XCO

One Hour (1.6km lap)

Lynne Venter

Pretoria, Sammy Marks

Sat 23rd Oct

Sammy Marks

XCM

Telkom Satellite MTB night ride Telkom Satellite MTB Challenge Babas Lodge # 10 Kievits Kroon Corporate MTB Challenge Buffalo Marathon

Pretoria, Hartbeesthoek

Sat 23rd Oct

Pretoria, Hartbeestoek

Sun 24th Oct

Pretoria, Babas Lodge Pretoria, Kievits Kroon

Sun 31st Oct Sun 31st Oct

East London, Gonubie Farmers Hall Dordrecht Farm Avondson Loerie, Ottoford Forest

Sun 3rd Oct Sat 9th Oct Sun 10th Oct

Bonthoek MTB Challenge XCM Steel Tek EP Half-marathon XCM Champs

East London

Sat 16th Oct

Charity Ride

XCM

Queenstown, Longhill Game Park Aliwal North, Primary School

Sat 23rd Oct

Hangklip Classic

XCM

Sat 30th Oct

Buffelfees Fun Ride

XCM

Sun 31st Oct

Mondi Addo MTB Marathon XCM

Advendurance

XCM Night Race

18km

Peter Zeelie

XCM

57km/36km/10km

Peter Zeelie

XCM XCM

65km/35km 45km

Andre de Beer Rob Jackson

XCM

70km/42km/35km/15km/5km Amatola MTB Club

Nelspruit, Mankele

Fri 15th - Sun 17th Oct

Isuzu 3 Towers Stage Race

XCM Stage Race

Volksrust

Sat 30th Oct

Volkrust Classic

XCM

Somerset West, Lourensford Wine Estate Wilderness

Sat 2nd Oct

Lourensford MTB Classic

XCM

Sun 3rd - Sat 9th Oct

KKK Tour #9 Tour 4 (50 500km riders) Lion of Africa De Grendel XCM MTB Mountain to Mountain MTB Apple Blossom MTB (TBC) XCM

Sun 3rd Oct Cellar

Sun 10th Oct

65km/35km 42km/21km/10km/5km

Petro Avondson Steeltek/Fattracks

70km/40km

Bruce Raasch

30km/3km 85km/35km

Wiehan Janse van Rensburg Shane Bradfield

45km/25km/10km/4km

Mankele MTB Mark & Geoffrey Tobie Malan

082-338 9532/082-338 9533 www.mankele.co.za 082-346 0601www.volksrustclassic.co.za

Dirtopia

021-884 4752 www.dirtopia.co.za 083-395 9038 www.kkkcycle.co.za 082-575 8067rboshoff@ merlingroup.co.za www.slanghoek.co.za 082-658 0112tntpromotions@xsinet.co.za 083-447 7844 072-713 1148 www.ngkerkstellenboschwes.org.za & www.ngkstbwes.org.za 082-379 1177 www.capepioneer.co.za 021-884 4752 www.dirtopia.co.za 083-508 9798 083-285 7285 bemarking@ durbanvillehs.co.za www. maniccycles.co.za

EASTERN CAPE

MPUMALANGA

Amatola MTB Club

WESTERN CAPE

Arno Botha 60km/30km/10km

Riaan Boshoff

46km/26km/12km

Theresa Kingcome

Stellenbosch, Oude Libertas Amphitheatre

Sat 16th Oct

MTB Challenge Devon Valley Hills MTB Challenge

XCM XCM

80km/25km 48km/35km/13km

Ladismith Toerisme Jaco Opperman

Oudtshoorn, REC sports grounds Grabouw

Mon 18th - Sat 23rd Oct

Cape Pioneer Trek

XCM Stage Race

650km/6-day

Dryland

91km/60km/30km 13km

Thys Meyers Odie Heunis

Wimpie Geyer

082-899 8970

60km/30km 101km

J Van Der Merwe Ride Magazine

Sat 23rd Oct

Outride weekend

XCM

Oudtshoorn

Sun 30th Oct Sat 30th Oct

Laerskool ODN Noord Durbanville High School MTB

XCM XCM

Kimberley

Sat 23rd Oct

Rotary Night Ride

XCM

Parys

Sat 9th Oct Sat 9th Oct

Future Floor/Spar MTN Ride Crater Cruise XCM #7 Ride Dirt Flirt #1

XCM XCM

Parys

Sat 9th Oct

Parys

Sun 10th Oct

Parys

Sun 10th Oct

Dirtopia

NORTHERN CAPE FREE STATE

Contact 082-901 8703 www.amric.co.za 079-878 5379 www.goldfieldscyclingclub.co.za 079-878 5379 www.godlfieldscyclingclub.co.za 083-327 2499 www.advendurance.com 082-825 0250 www.totalindex.co.za 082-825 0250 www.totalindex.co.za 082-490 5061 082-550 1628 www.leveragecorporation.co.za 071-140 5549 www.amatolamtb.co.za 045-944 1014 083-760 8968 www.fattracks.co.za 071-140 5549 www.amatolamtb.co.za 082-773 6279 www.queenstown.co.za 082-560 44737 071-114 4811

057-352 1906 011-888 8288 www.cratercruise.co.za 011-888 8288 www.cratercruise.co.za 011-888 8288 www.cratercruise.co.za 011-888 8288 www.cratercruise.co.za 082-770 1112 082-412 4606 www.nfscycling.co.za

XCM

28km

Ride Magazine

MiWay Ride Crater Cruise XCM #7 Ride Dirt Flirt #2

XCM

56km

Ride Magazine

XCM

15km

Ride Magazine

Heilbron, Free op’ie Vlakte Sat 16th Oct Kroonstad Sat 16th Oct

Riemland MTB Race Kroon Wedren

XCM XCM

65km/40km/20km/1.5km 60km/30km/15km

Louis Kleynhans Willie Stpman

Ladysmith Balgowan, Michaelhouse School Hilton College

XCM XCM

40km/25km 50km/25km

Angie Stuart Heidi Mocke

082-828 3395 072-244 6061

Fri 8th Oct

Lake Eland Reserve

Sun 10th Oct

Kambonambi

Sun 10th Oct

Durban, Midmar Dam Bartlett Estate

Sat 23rd Oct Sun 31st Oct

The Nguni Classic Michaelhouse MTB Super Classic #14 Energizer Corporate Adventure Night Relay Lake Eland Super Classic #15 Kwambo Lion MTB Challenge MTN Asishova St Mary’s MTB Classic

XCM XCM

Zebula, Zebula Golf Estate Sat 30th Oct

Dylan Victor Cup # 4

XCM

Mbabane-Manzini

Inyatsi Construction City- XCM City Extreme MTB race The LOGICO Swazi Frontier XCM Stage Race

Sat 2nd Oct Sun 3rd Oct

Sat 2nd Oct Wed 13th - Sat 16th Oct

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 94

KWAZULU-NATAL

XCM Night Race

10km

Max Cluer

XCM

40km/25km

Thomas Blom

033-386 0815 www.maxcluer.com 072-946 0656

XCM

50km/25km/10km

Kwambo Dirt Trackers

083-631 9582

75km/40km 40km/25km

Melissa Felt Laurence Haw

031-312 8896 083-308 9542

75km/35km

Sharlene

083-452 6191

70km/35km

Amapushpush cycling club

180km/3 days

Peak Outdoor (Pty) Ltd

00 268 6110681 www. adventuresport.co.sz info@theswazifrontier.sz www.theswazifrontier.sz

LIMPOPO SWAZILAND

8/10/10 3:24:11 PM


Classifieds

TO ADVERTISE IN TREAD MAGAZINE, CONTACT: BrandAM Manager 98mm x 112mmmmChris Ad Dutton 8/2/10 |11:41 Page|1Email chris@treadmag.co.za | Cell +27 82 8761672 | Fax +27 86 657 5142 | www.treadmag.co.za GAME LODGE

MOUNTAIN BIKING ADVENTURES EASTERN CAPE

Bring your rods, bikes, boardgames and books and relax amongst the game, a mere 230km from Johannesburg towards Harrismith

TOYOTA MTN CYCLE PARK

Composite

• 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 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 95

| 95

8/10/10 3:24:23 PM


(

Blend Some facetime with real mountain bikers you’d never normally read about.

)A

Paul Katzeff PHOTO: GREG BEADLE

ge, location, day job? I’m a

to deal with a growing gut and from there

49-year-old lawyer operating out

started spinning classes at gym. I used to ride

of Cape Town as a commercial/

about 20 years ago and did two ‘Argus Cycle

property lawyer. I’ve been

Tours’ then, but hadn’t touched a bike since.

with C and A Friedlander Attorneys since I

While spinning, I used to look outside at this

finished law school at UCT and now am the

beautiful city and thought I have got to get

CEO, which I thought would mean I would

back out there. So a mate and I bought road

get more time to ride – but it hasn’t turned

bikes in February 2009 and did ‘The Argus’

out that way.

a month or so later. About a week after the

Why mountain biking? I did a stint at the

race, having seen all the mountain bikes

Sport Science Institute three years ago

around, I bought a mountain bike. I also used to ride moto-cross in Pretoria where I grew up and it seemed a natural progression for me… hiking in the country on wheels - wow! Favourite riding spots? I did a lot of racing initially – Knysna, Karoo-2-Coast and others. I still do ‘The Argus’ on a road bike but mainly ride my mountain bike in Tokai, Grabouw, Citrusdal, anywhere really. I’m more into riding with friends and family now and do the occasional race. Is your family riding with you now? I just returned from two weeks with my family at The Haven in the Transkei. My 8-year-old twin daughters also have mountain bikes and got their baptism in the hills and on the beach in the ’Skei. My wife Anthea is now also begging for a bike, I’m thinking four bikes – big trailer! Fortunately my son is only 3, but no doubt he will be next. Most memorable ride? Had the privilege of meeting Farmer Glen (founder of the Sani2Sc stage rage) at the Haven in the Transkei. He was doing the Imana Wild Ride race route with his family and invited a few of us to join them one day. It was undoubtedly the best ride I’ve ever done – on singletrack in the forest then onto hard sand at low tide on the beach. We passed an old wreck, huge shells on the beach over green mounds. Even passed cows on the beach… it doesn’t get much better that that. It was a tough ride. What bike are you riding? A Giant Anthem XO – it’s got great components, is very light and handles very well. Any other sport in your life? I still spin when the weather is dodgy and occasionally play golf but not nearly as much as I used to before I started mountain biking. I still watch the golfers teeing off at Steenberg, only these days I’m watching them while standing astride my bike on a contour path at the top of Tokai Forest at sunrise…

96 |

TREAD_ISSUE 8.indd 96

TREAD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

8/10/10 3:24:37 PM


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