The right bike for the job

The Boknes Woody Cape Cycle Challenge on Saturday December 27 is mostly on gravel and for a comfortable ride, the right bike matters. Here are some tips from the race committee.

The choice of bike for the 10km is not very important. The distance is short and in case of breakdown you are close to the start/finish. There is also a sweeper vehicle that will collect you along the way if your bike or your body has had enough.

The 54km is more demanding: a mountain bike is recommended. For this distance, road bikes are a no-go because the road surface for most of the route is uneven gravel and stones. Where there is paving, there are also serious potholes. Gravel bikes for the more experienced riders are acceptable, provided you can control it on uneven terrain.

We recommend:

• A 26- or 29-inch MTB. Front suspension will help a lot to absorb shocks caused by potholes and uneven surface, helping you stay in control.

• Tubeless tyres fitted that are filled with slime to block punctures during your ride.

• Carry a puncture repair kit: plugs and needle for tubeless; glue and patches if you’re still on regular tubes and tyres. Tyre levers, pump or small gas canister for both.

• Make sure you can safely limit your speed with good disc brakes. There are some challenging downhill sections, so have your brakes serviced before the ride. Unless you’re experienced, you will find it difficult to stay in control at a downhill speed of more than 20km/h.

• Never use front brakes on a downhill! (Google ‘MTB OTB’).

• Consume sufficient water and carbs to remain hydrated.

• Keep at least 3 metres from the rider in front of you to avoid a pile-up, especially close to the start.

The start time is 6am for the 54km route and 6.30am for the 10km route.

ENTRY, PAYMENTS & NUMBER COLLECTION

All entries must be made online through the Boknes Ratepayers Association’s website www.boknesratepayers.co.za/cycle-challenge. Payments are to be made electronicaly into the Boknes Ratepayers bank account. Bank account details will be furnished after entry is submitted.

54km race: R290 per person.
10km race: R100 per person for ages 13 and older | R50 per person for those 12 years and under.

A boerewors roll and a soft drink are included with each entry. The race number will serve as payment.

Entries close strictly at 17:00 on Friday, 26th December. No new entries will be accepted after 17:00 on 26 December. This website will shut down at 17:00 on 26 December.

Number collection is at the Boknes Community Hall on Friday, 26th December, from 9am to 8pm. No numbers will be  issued without proof of payment.

Late collection penalty:

A charge of R 50.00 will levied for late number collections on the  morning before the race. The R 50 can be paid in cash or by electronic transfer with PoP. WiFi facilities are available at the start venue.