Secret Trail riding. Grabouw, South Africa.

The climb was brutal, but once we disappeared into the clouds and the trail leveled out, it was as if we were in heaven. Trail riding heaven that is! The trails were tricky, rocky and scary at times.

Stewart, Paul the Plumber, Malcolm, AD (not pictured) and I. (behind the camera)

At the trail head, a quick glance at the men and their steeds, and I knew I was in trouble. The bikes had 5 inches of travel, adjustable seat posts, 2.3 to 2.5 knobblies and chain guards. The riders wore baggies, had hairy legs, carried Camel Backs with warm gear, emergency food and probably flares and a satellite phone!

I wore Lycra – red & rainbow !?!(NOT cool)- rode a Stumpjumper 29er with 80mm of travel and had Specialized’s 2.0 The Captain tires. To me a burly tire, but in these conditions they are Marie Biscuits! And also I had 4 Clif Shots and water. For a 5hr ride!

These guys are hard men. They all raced (or still races) down hill and they take fitness seriously.  This is an epic trail ride and I was stoked to crack an invitation. It was cool to see how the “other half” of mountain bikers do things, I learnt a few skills, found some more respect for the 29er and only crashed twice. But most of all, it was great fun.  Thanks guys!

Paul stalled on a steep step-up, put his foot out, the rock rolled from under him, and he tumbled far far down the mountainside. Landing amongst the pretty pink flowers. Malcolm had to go rescue him.

Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.