Bike Check: Dave's Cape Epic Bike
The Absa Cape Epic is finally here, back in its normal calendar slot in a year where events are returning to a somewhat normal atmosphere.
"The Absa Cape Epic not only attracts professional racers, but aspiring amateur riders wanting to test themselves against the best. It is a full-service race, meaning that everything is taken care of from the start - all riders need to think about is riding."
www.cape-epic.com
Dave George, a former professional cyclist, is no foreigner when it comes to the Cape Epic with 7 finishes to his name as he sets his eyes on an 8th finishers medal to his name. At his last participation at the Cape Epic, they finished a solid 17th overall in 2017.
In 2022 Dave will be racing on his custom built Trek Top Fuel 9.8 laced up to some Bontrager Kovee XXX boost TLR 29" wheels and a bunch of tweaked out gear, some old and some new.
"Top Fuel 9.8 is a full suspension carbon mountain bike for riders who don't settle. Not for parts nor for one style of riding. It combines a high-end parts package with a low-weight carbon frame for one unbelievably fun rig that's fast on flow and fun to ride on techy singletrack." Trek Bikes
Dave's cockpit features the new Bontrager RSL Handlebar/Stem with an integrated Garmin mount. The RSL bar is an integrated handlebar/stem that delivers aesthetically pleasing performance, looks and best of all a lightweight solution to the modern bike.
More on the RSL bar here.
The Groupset
A SRAM XX1 AXS rear derailleur with a 10-52 cassette allowing for more than enough range over the brutal Cape Epic terrain.
The Crankset: An older Sram X01 170mm with a 36t CSIXX chainring.
The Fork: A beautiful Fox 34 Step-Cast, with orange racing livery.
Tyres, always the big debate... Dave's been on the Bontrager XR2 Tubeless tyres for a few years now and has decided to not change a winning formula. (he'll be on some fresh new tyres at the prologue)
Gebiomized Saddle - A product Dave swears by and that just works.
#NextLevelFit
#NextLevelFit
Sram's Level Ultimate Brake Set
We wish Dave all the best for the 2022 Absa Cape Epic. Follow our social pages for updates throughout the Cape Epic.
See the bike here on our facebook page.