Cyclists making the daily trip from Diepsloot along Winnie Mandela Drive to work in Fourways, received an unexpected early Christmas gift, when a community-driven safety initiative rolled out on the roadside on December 12.

The effort was led by the Pringle family: Robert, Lindsay, and Charlotte, together with Smish Burge and Charlie Paige Thompson, from the Chain Gang Mountain Biking (MTB) Club.

After seeing the risks faced by cyclists who use their bikes to travel to work, the group felt something had to be done. That feeling grew into a warm, community-led effort to gather helmets, reflective gear, and other essentials for riders who rely on their bicycles, not only for sport, but for survival.

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Every day, these cyclists navigate the busy route without adequate protection, turning an already demanding commute into a risky journey. “At this time of year, we’re normally planning festive rides,” said Lindsay Pringle, “but we see the cyclists out there whose rides aren’t for fun, they’re essential. If we can help keep them safe, that’s the best Christmas gift we can offer.”

As word spread, local riders and families joined in. Drop-off points turned into pockets of generosity filled with new and gently used helmets, shoes, gloves, pumps, cycling glasses, shorts, and shirts.

Through a Back-a-Buddy campaign, funds were raised to buy reflective vests and additional helmets. Garth Mes, from Bidon Bistro, members of the Cradle cycling community, Gauteng riders who attended the provincial awards ceremony, Chain Gang MTB Club members, and anonymous donors all contributed.

Hermien Steyn, of Hoërskool Florida, added warmth to the drive by supplying soup, porridge, and lunch parcels that were eagerly received.
The scale of the need became clear as more and more riders arrived from the Diepsloot side.

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“We didn’t realise how great the need was until the cycle-commuters began pouring in,” said Burge. “Cyclists know the value of safety. We wear helmets for sport, but others need them for survival. Being able to give back is the true spirit of cycling.”

To share the donations, the team set up a gazebo on Winnie Mandela Drive. Cyclists heading to work stopped to collect helmets and visibility gear, while enjoying hot coffee and fresh flapjacks, small touches that added festive warmth to a meaningful morning.

Ward 94 councillor David Foley joined the event, which has already sparked conversations about ongoing safety support, regular gear drives, and possible partnerships with local businesses.

“I was amazed by the team’s enthusiasm to help the cyclists who rely on their bikes to get to work each day. Safety is everything, and wearing a helmet is non-negotiable. We were able to hand out quite a number on the day. The donation drives will continue, and I’m hopeful this becomes a regular event.

“I joined the initiative because we all know how often taxis use the pedestrian and cyclist walkway, and I wanted to be able to call JMPD if needed to protect the team. The weather was perfect, and the cyclists were incredibly thankful.”

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