Kaapsche Hoop CMA ride - December 2008

Mags and I and a group from the CMA, Menlyn Chapter did a loop through parts of the Eastern Transvaal this past weekend.

Saturday:

Bapsfontein ... Delmas ... Witbank ... Hendrina ... Carolina ... Badplaas ... Baberton ... Nelspruit ... Kaapsche Hoop. 396km.

Mainly nice roads, but some potholes encountered. The road between Baberton and Nelspruit is under construction, but ride able at reasonable speeds. Kaapsche Hoop Road between Nelspruit and Kaapsche Hoop is awesome to ride and in a great condition.

When getting closer to Kaapsche Hoop, slow down and look out for the wild horses that may be on the road. They are part of the only pack of wild horses in South Africa and one of only two in Africa, possibly the world.

Sunday:

Kaapsche Hoop ... Nelspruit ... Sabie ... Lydenburg ... Roossenekal ... Stoffberg .. Groblersdal ... Bronkhorstspruit ... Bapsfontein. 440km.

Very nice ride, but extremely hot and sweaty. Long Tom Pass and Steenkampsberg Pass, as always a jol. Avoid Groblersdal and the road from Groblersdal to Bronkhorstspruit. The town and the road, both are just crappy.

I wonder if I have any leave time left .... hmmm ....