Some of the world’s top cyclists have interesting nicknames.
Eddy Merckx, ‘The Cannibal’, for his insatiable desire to win.
Bernard Hinault, ‘The Badger’, for his fighting spirit.
Mark Cavendish, ‘The Manx Missile’, a famous sprinter from the Isle of Man.
Fabian Cancellara, ‘Spartacus’, for his incredible strength and power.
Laurent Fignon, ‘The Professor’, known for his intelligence and glasses.
Our own Jan Montshioa deserves only one name: Dynamite!
The former pupil of Makhathini Primary and Sozama High School is a small package with big explosive power.
When you meet him, you would never think his pair of short legs could pedal a bike like that.
But his records speak for themselves.
Jan is a dedicated cyclist known for his exceptional performances across a variety of competitive cycling events.
He is currently putting his knowledge back to work at Basson and Beyers Cycle Works.
Best Achievements
• Absa Cape Epic (10 times)
Jan has participated in the prestigious Absa Cape Epic, a gruelling race that is often considered one of the hardest mountain bike races in the world. His participation has solidified his status in the global cycling community.
• Exxaro Jersey Wins (2013, 2015)
In both 2013 and 2015, Jan claimed the Exxaro Jersey at the Absa Cape Epic, an award given to the best-performing rider from the Exxaro Development Team.
• Tour of Taiwan (2013)
As part of his international success, Jan participated in the Tour of Taiwan, representing his South African colours.
• Continental Championships (2014)
In 2014, Jan represented South Africa at the Continental Championships in Rwanda. Competing at an elite level, he showcased his abilities on the international stage by riding with the South African National Team.
• Tour of Rwanda (2014)
As part of his international success, Jan participated in the Tour of Rwanda.
• Tour of Schrader, Dubai (2016)
In 2016, Jan competed in the Tour of Schrader in Dubai wearing his South African national colours, earning recognition for his strong performances in this challenging race.
• Tour of Eritrea (2014)
Jan also participated in the Tour of Eritrea in 2014, representing South Africa.
• Wines2Whales (W2W)
Jan has proven his strength in the Wines2Whales race, one of South Africa’s most renowned mountain biking events. He has participated four times, with his standout achievement being his win in the 2024 Amateur’s jersey. He also claimed 8th place in the W2W in 2025.
• Gauteng Champs (2024)
In the 2024 Gauteng Champs, Jan finished 4th, showcasing his consistent performance in competitive cycling.
• South African Champs (Road Bike, 2024)
Jan secured 4th place in the 2024 South African Road Bike Championships, a testament to his all-around cycling skills and his versatility in different cycling disciplines.
• Amashova (2023, 2024)
He competed in the Amashova in the VA category, finishing 4th in 2023 and improving to 3rd place in 2024.
• Dischem Classic (2024)
In the 2024 Dischem Classic, Jan secured a strong 3rd place finish, adding another podium to his collection of impressive results.
• Tour of Panorama (2024)
At the 2024 Tour of Panorama, Jan placed 4th.
• Ride Joburg 94.7 (2024)
Jan has participated in the Ride Joburg 94.7 event eight times, with his best finish in 2024, placing 8th in the VA group.
2025 94.7 4th.
2025 Road bike SA Champs on VA top 10
2025 XCO MTB Number 1 in VA
2025 XCM MTB Number 1 in VA
He started cycling seriously in 2006 with a team called the Saleta Cycling Team in Middelburg with his coach, Ryan Hokhlemberg.
Favourite
Bike: Scott and Pinarello.
Do you still ride seriously? Yes, in VA.
Best time? Ride Joburg 2020, time 2:12:00.
Favourite race? Dubai, Taiwan, and the USA.
Advice for young riders
- Skills before speed.
- Learn to handle your bike.
- 4–5 times per week, even if it’s only 45 minutes.
- Clean your chain, check tyre pressure, and learn basic maintenance.
Favourites
Favourite soccer teams: Sundowns and Manchester United.
Favourite other sports: Golf, soccer.
Favourite music: House music.
Favourite sportsman/woman: Candice and Matthew Beers.
Anything else: When I do something, I do it with love, and I love to give people advice about cycling.
