JuliBoB

@ 1.85m go for XL. I am 1.79, with longer leg length and literrally on the borderline with my Fuel EX 2022 model size Large. So go for the XL and not the L.

Irma is very good = she is honest and will "sommer" tell you if your frame is not right for you!

Looks cool and like the HTA @ 68deg

Unfortunately had the same experience two weeks ago ;( Had to follow up after the 3 day waiting period ended. Then only receive a response 2 days after my second email. It’s a bit disappointing, I am aware about the whole stock issue in SA/world, but no need to wait so long to get a Yes/No response…..... Inquired today from a LBS in Stellies, about the release of a certain new/2021 model MTB. In 4 hours the sales rep got back, with an answer, release date and apology due to the delayed availability (due to Covid). I know it’s not right to compare the two scenarios, but makes me wonder how they liaise with their suppliers and clients. Seems there is a serious delay/issue somewhere in their value chain. Hope they can iron out these delays.

I am new to Gravel, but what I've noticed on my Trek Checkpoint when I ride on rugged roads/trails, a rear derailer with a clutch would be nice. So what ever you decide gears wise, just keep this in mind....

I am not sure about the second owners coverage.....BUT trek is discontinuing the Stache and no new release for 2021. I am also a Stache owner and I joined a Stache Facebook group, with 99% Yanks on the page They (members) confirmed a few weeks ago that Trek US confirmed the line has been discontinued. I am aware (via TrekSA webpage) that they still have Carbon Stache Frames available in SA Hopefully they will be able to assist/replace. Also, it would help if you could liaise with the original/first owner, if you can? Think it would help with the replacement.

Very nice and looks lekker. Hope pricing will be okay

Thank you. It's a bit crap, use to Fantasy League and SuperBru that allows until the next day or just before the round/stage starts ;( Was in 15th and would've wanted to bring in some GC guys. Anyway, no point in moaning.......But maybe BH should consider extending the sub time period to before the next stage starts.

Were we only allowed to sub Yesterday (Tuesday)....?

Go to your LBS and let them assess the damage (maintenance costs). I will bet you, it wont be nearly as costly as MTB services/maintenance. Personally, I would advise you to keep it and the bike looks really cool!!! I used to ride on the road with alu & carbon road-bikes. Started MTBing and for years I didn't do any road-bike riding. Started riding a bit on road again in Nov'18, with a very old Steel frame Hansom, with fairly good components (like yours). The bike handles perfectly fine and is a breeze to ride, compared to what you get & feel on rough MTB trails. And I must admit, now and then passing the gents on their Fancy Carbon road-bikes gives me great pleasure!

Only had a good experience there, had to return mtb shoes due to sizing issues and no problems. Assistance I received via phone and in-person was great, my wife had to return it on my behalf and they were very helpful (she knows nothing about Mtbs). A buddy bought a new Spez there recently, had very good service pre & post buy. Its not my go to LBS, I prefer smaller shops, BUT seems to be a very good & professional setup.

I also had a similar experience 3 years back. It started when I took a GU during a road race and I haven't used this type of GU previously. So I thought it might have been the GU that didn't work well with my system (or heart). After that it would happen randomly, on the trails, road or Spinning bike. One day it happened in the Gym, so I just got off the spinning bike, shaking and HR sky high. I called my GP and scheduled a appointment, GP referred me to a Cardiologist. All was normal and no issues could be detected after various tests. The Cardiologist did mention that it could be various factors contributing to it happening, but I was in tip top shape. A contributing factor (he alluded to) could definitely be stress & anxiety, which we all experience daily. After the incident happened a few times, it probably became a "mental thing" and kept on happening more frequently. Trust me, if it is in your head, it will take some time to go away. It took months to get over it. Everytime I would push really hard, I would often start to stress and think, "what if it happens again and I get a heart-attack, I am only 29 years old!!!. Long story short, it took months for my head to faze out the negative thoughts. It hasn't happened in over 2 years and I have pushed my limits on various occasions. I am sure that medical fraternity would have better explanations then a random weekend warrior, however, I feel a incident like yours (and mine) is often mainly due to stress and easily leads to anxiety. BUT, better safe than sorry, so rather keep on seeking medical advise and guidance if it would make you feel more comfortable. Your training schedule seem a bit "full", maybe a chill here and there might do you good as well Good Luck!

Go for Bontrager XR3/4, both really good tyre options. XR4 will have a higher rolling resistance due to it being more trail orientated, but the grip is really good.

Your current fitness sounds fine and your muscle memory will be sufficient. As mentioned, post stage protein and carbs intake, very important. Also kinda stick to what your stomach is use to! Keep an eye on your sugar levels as well, during and post stages. One thing that did wonders for me on my first 3 day stage race was Core Strength Training 3 times a week. I started 8-6 weeks prior to the race and it really helped a lot, physically and mentally. Saddle sore cream also important, I have only used it during stage races and I am glad I did! Good Luck

I think currently the market is also a bit flooded with good secondhand bikes. Seems the extensive new tech developments of late, like Boost hubs, slacker Geometry for XC bikes and wider rims - bigger wheels, has all played a role in more and more people wanting to upgrade. Recently sold my Trek Superfly FS 2012/13 model for a "Appel en 'n Ui!!!" After already going into the sale and posting the add way below what some people are advertising the same type/models for. It was in a great condition and well looked after, etc. Had over 400 views and only two possible buyers, where the one gentlemen indicated he loves the look, state, components & wheels on the bike, however the HT angle is just too steep and a bit outdated compared to the new Geometry trends. Could be an Isolated incident, appreciated his honesty, BUT I feel more and more people tend the want to pay for a more modern tech bike. Oh and ended up selling to a big secondhand dealer. Some people are also taking chances with their asking price, way too high and just silly. As mentioned in earlier post, some sellers also add the sentimental element to the asking price, which pushes their price up. I feel the current “tech development fueled consumerism atmosphere” supply is kind off outpacing the demand in the market, especially in and around Western Cape, Gauteng and KZN.