Stance bikes: Vibrant, colorful and unique

Typically, you see elements of spinning, and some will include a sound system.

April 4, 2024

Liezl Scheepers, Parys Gazette 1 minute read

They amaze you with their colourful bikes and ingenious tricks as they line up in Boom Street for a photoshoot. You need not watch them show off on their stance bikes for too long to realise this is a shared pride and joy for these secondary learners who form part of a vibrant and emerging sub-culture within the broader cycling community.

It is all about customising the bikes – not only for performance but also for aesthetic appeal. Each bike reflects the style and individuality of the owner, blending functionality with artistry.

Typically, you see elements of spinning, and some will include a sound system. They explain that the mudguards, blades, colourful frames, handles, and rims are equally important.

YouTube videos taught them what they need to know to build their stance bikes, but the true joy is gathering – sharing tips, showing tricks and celebrating the engineering skills and creativity that are part of the stance culture.

As it is expensive to build stance bikes, they sell the spares of their old bikes, do odd jobs or get help from family members.

All are learners at Barnard Molokoane Secondary School and Parys High School and are part of the Big Rock Cycling School, sponsored and maintained by Anatomic Sportswear, with the help of volunteering coaches from the community.