Cape Town Cycling

Despite my fear and hesitation, this was one of the best decisions I have made in a really long time. I originally had found a bike to rent via a local shop, and was in touch with a local tri group to join some of their group training. But with limited time and a very tight work schedule, I really only had Wednesday for some personal time, and I decided it was worth the extra money to simply hire a guide and leave it up to a professional. Through some googling, I found iRideAfrica, a smaller touring company with guides who had some major road and mountain biking credibility. It was refreshing and made me comfortable booking - many of the tours I was finding were the 'hybrid, 12-mph, picture taking' type of tours, and while there is a time and a place for that type of cycling, it wasn't what I was looking for.

I have nothing but glowing things to say about iRide Africa, and my riding partner for the day, Jennie. She is a local, very competitive pro cyclist and knew just about everyone on the road.I booked an 'all day' tour, but told Jennie up front i was looking for 3ish hours, 45-60 miles in the saddle. Looking back, I would say this is my one regret. I booked all day, I really should have stayed out there much longer! We did about 75km, but to go all the way down to the Cape of Good Hope (where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet) is about 120km round-trip, and I was trying to be smart and avoid doing my first century ride of the season 1) 4 days after racing a half marathon, 2) less than 2 days after flying from DC to Cape Town, and 3) in the middle of a really intensive and important week of work. So I'm bummed I didn't do more, but at the time, and looking back, it was likely the best decision.

Despite my worries, the bike was amazing. It had a nice, cushy saddle and was perfectly set up! It was a mens Giant, and the only thing was towards the end of the ride my shoulders and hands started to hurt, as I am used to the more narrow handlebars/grips of my women's frame.

My trusty ride for the day! Surprisingly totally comfortable!

I got picked up at my hotel, which is not a very conducive neighborhood for cycling (GREAT for running though!) and we drove and parked in Sea Point. We headed south through Camps Bay (quintessential surfer town), Hout Bay (simply stunning) and the highlight of the ride was riding up and over Chapman's Peak. The road I can only describe as similar to the PCH along the California coast.

Climbing South up Chapman's Peak.

I was so happy with my cycling fitness, and was able to not only get in some solid climbing, but also enjoy the views and go a bit camera happy while riding. After descending the other side of the Peak (which I realized was quite a bit steeper/longer than the ride up!!) We added some more kms on through Fish Hoek, avoiding the baboons and tourists in Simons Town and Boulder Beach.

We stopped for the obligatory cycling cappuccino and scone, and headed back, where I did decide to play tourist and make a few stops to enjoy the views and snap some photos. We also got joined by a friend, who proved that you can find 'those type' of male cyclist anywhere - I don't think I need to elaborate.

Fresh cream? Why not :)

Back up!

You can see the road along the mountain. so amazing.

Climbing back up Chappie's - we made a friend.

Me and Jennie - Top of Chapman's Peak overlooking Hout Bay.

Looking back towards Hout Bay area.

After all was said and done, a post-ride Fanta (so good and so much better in South Africa!) with a view finished the day off.

El fin!

I have always said Cape Town is my favorite city, hand down. I gush about the city and the culture. Getting out on the open road only cemented this fact and I am already scheming about getting back.