MANIC cycles: servicing the ABSA Cape EPIC for the last 18 years

Keeping EPIC bikes in tip-top shape for almost 2x decades

Speak of the devil. As I type these notes I received a WhatsApp photo (above) from the main man from MANIC cycles himself, Francois Estherhuizen. And guess where he is? At an undisclosed location, but I can tell you that it is for the crew of the 2026 ABSA Cape EPIC. Where MANIC cycles will once again take the main spot as tech support provider to the riders and look after our bicycles. Dankie, Francois!

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MANIC cycles is the OFFICIAL tech support partner at the EPIC since 2017

It is no wonder that #bicyclecouriers voted MANIC as The best ABSA Cape EPIC bike service package! There can be only one. Their very first year providing backup was in 2007. And from 2017 Manic cycles have become the official tech support partner inside the race village. Inside and out, MANIC has a presence right as you come out of the finish line chute and then also extra crew at the so-called Tweede Kamp (second camp).

They are also the only bicycle shop with servicing at the hotel even before the EPIC starts – talk about commitment to the riders. Arrived from the airport to the hotel and need your bike unpacked and set up? Manic will be there! And at registration, and at the prologue, and at every stage during the EPIC. And even after the finish so you can have your bike serviced and boxed and the flight back home.

Full circle, full service.

Did you know that Francois has completed 2x EPIC’s himself?

Which means he knows what each rider is facing during the Untamed African Race, and he understands your needs and wants. Plus, he is a passionate cyclist and supporter and shares in your daily trials and tribulations.

What is the weirdest thing you have encountered over the years?

A case of frozen sealant. There was one rider that kept complaining about a squeak. And we all know how irritating that can be. Especially if you cannot identify where it comes from. Everything on his bike had been checked and re-checked but the noise remained. Francois then heard the squeak when walking with the bike, but it was only apparent at low speed. Which made him investigate further and he found a solid chuck of latex sealant in each tire. *PRO TIP: certain brands of latex sealant can freeze during flights, which is why MANIC suggests flying without same and rather filling up at your destination or before the race.

Quick, book your service package today!

There are limited bike service packages available for the 2026 EPIC as they want to maintain their high service standards so be sure to book early and get your bike serviced by the best in the business at the ABSA Cape EPIC. Book directly with Francois and his team below.