We get a lot of questions regarding what bikes and cycling gear we’d recommend to purchase. So we took this opportunity to put together a list of bikes and gear we’d recommend you buying, if you’re racing in the Cape Epic.
The Cape Epic is probably one of the world’s most challenging and brutal MTB XC stage races. But at the end of it all you will be a changed person, having experienced amazing views of the Cape and the pure thrill of untamed XC stage racing!
Our 2016 bike buyers guide for the Cape Epic:
- Momsen Vipa XT
Designed and built with the purpose of taking down tough trails, manoeuvring through the most technical of sections, and with a light-weight carbon fibre frame, the Momsen Vipa XT is our top choice. It is specially designed for South African conditions, and reasonably priced too!!!
Price: R 56 000
- Pyga Stage
Featuring Pyga’s own twist on geometry and the RS-1 fork, this bike will be competitive no matter what. It is exceptionally beneficial if you plan on spending long hours in the saddle. Plus, it has one of the most innovative and uniquely designed frames we have ever seen!
Price: R 94 000
- Specialized Epic
The Epic hardly needs an introduction to the Cape Epic. Just the fact that this bike has been on the podiums for so many Cape Epics, should convince you to buy this bike. It goes to show that Specialized are doing something right.
Price: Contact your local dealer.
- Merida Ninety-Six Team
The return of a legend, looking to draw first blood against the harsh conditions of the Cape Epic. The 2016 model hasn’t tasted the soil of the Cape Epic yet, but it has all the features necessary for such a race, and is more than capable of getting you through the race.
Price: R 162 000
- Scott Spark 900 RC
Probably the most competitive bike out there, with a super light-weight HMX carbon fibre design and good looks, the Spark 900 RC is bound to attract attention. With Matthys Beukes and Phil Buys having won multiple stages on this machine, it rivals the Specialized Epic it-self!
Price: R92 500
- Giant Anthem X Advanced 29er
Claimed to have incredible traction and stability on climbs, without comprising on speed. Well, the Anthem sure lives up to that description. This bike has endurance to spare and speed enforced with Maestro Suspension technology.
Price: R 71 000
- Trek Top Fuel 9.9 SL
If you want a bike with style and high-class quality, then the Top Fuel is the bike for you. Yes, it might look bulky, but don’t be fooled. This bike has power and is light-weight. Although not the most manoeuvrable, it makes up for that on descends, packing a pretty fast pace!
Price: R 150 000
- Cannondale Scalpel 29
The main feature of the Scalpel is the Lefty. Surprisingly stable and confident, the Scalpel 29 is a popular bike at Cape Epics. And with Cannondale’s SI technology it will be an extremely competitive bike on XC races.
Price: R 120 000
- Santa Cruz Tallboy CC
Last but not least, the Tallboy. This bike also has an incredible history in XC stage racing. The carbon frame, FOX Shox and Shimano drivetrain, altogether make a deadly combination. We personally would not have built this bike any better!
Price: from R 85 000
This bike buyers guide can be applied to any MTB stage race, not just the Cape Epic. These are just bikes that we picked out based on thorough research about their technology.
So if you are doing the Cape Epic good luck! SPARK BIKE REVIEW wishes you all the best.
