HOEDSPRUIT: Cyclists keep the MTB rubber side down

Mountain Biking (MTB) Trails are in short supply around Hoedspruit.

When I first moved here nearly 3 years ago, I would climb on my MTB and ride on tar to get to the popular ‘Three Bridges’ off-road trail. I don’t like tar!

The newest trail we have eliminates the need to ride the 3km of R40 from the Le Bamba intersection towards Phalaborwa to join the railway service road.

Cyclists can now enjoy about 4km of mixed single, quad and jeep track with a little gnarly thrown in for those who can/can’t or want/need for adrenaline or simply the challenge.

Building and maintaining trails is labour intensive and was made possible by private individuals and local companies.

A special thanks to Silver Wings Spur, Djuma Game Reserve, Stuart Woodhead, Tony Patten, Frazer Small and Patrick Green for their contributions of finance, materials and time. Silver Wings Spur also kindly gave cyclists on the first two orientation rides free drinks.

Their breakfasts are highly recommended and good value for money.

A “Three Bridges” return ride is about 50km from town and can be surprisingly challenging. Several riders come back having had an easy outward ride as it’s mainly downhill and cooler in the mornings if one leaves early enough.

The last 3km of the outward there-and-back route is fairly challenging for the novice as it includes several steep inclines on gravel.

Winds are common from the SSE which blows frequently on the uphill return on one’s nose, and combined with summer Lowveld temperatures can make the ride demanding.

Early starts are recommended. We have had three group rides with up to 16 participants leaving at 530am at the Silver Wings Spur. Visiting riders from Letsitele, Phalaborwa, Kampersrus, Johannesburg and Centurion have joined locals on the exciting new track.

The rains brought mud puddles, deeper ruts and some sandy sections, so be prepared for some challenges and pushing if you are prepared to ride all the way to the Olifants River. Wildlife spotted includes several raptors, duikers, impala, kudu, bushbuck, tortoises and those speedy Gonzales lizards!

My vision is to keep finding new trails to places of interest such as Jessica Hippo, 24° South, Klaserie village and Blyderivierspoort Dam at Swadini, the world class natural museum at Timbavati Headquarters.

Let’s make Hoedspruit a MTB’ers destination and offer an affordable activity for both residents and visitors to our town.

We are currently in need of signage to mark out the trails and need your assistance to make this happen.

If you can assist in any way – labour, finance or materials, please contact me on cacofonix@jcsafrica.com or 0823339113.

All the best for 2019!

Keep the rubber side down….