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March 21–28, 2027See Race DetailsCape Epic
Preparation
Training programmes
Keep your training on track for the FNB Wines2Whales
We enlisted Daisyway Coaching Systems to put together effective training programmes for you to use to ensure you are ready for the Race with GEES.
Training for an event like the FNB Wines2Whales should be fun while pushing your fitness limits at the same time. The goal of the first phase of training is to build a base; the first plan focusses on time in the saddle and developing a routine that you’ll be able to use going forward. These sessions should be enjoyable and are a good opportunity to get some good riding banter going with your race partner.
Rider checklists
Whether you’re local to the Western Cape , travelling in from the rest of South Africa or flying in from abroad, we want to ensure that you have covered all your bases in preparation for the event. Make sure you have ticked all your boxes by checking out the additional event services we have available and be sure to make use of the special discounts and rates available exclusively for FNB Wines2Whales riders.
We recommend that you bring no (or as few as possible) valuables to the race. We cannot take responsibility for valuables lost during the course of the event.
What to Bring:
- GEES
- Sleeping bag & Pillow
- Toiletries
- Towel
- Headlight
- Earplugs
- Beanie and scarf & gloves for evenings
- Warm long pants
- Casual clothes
- Slops
- Wellington Boots
- Sun block
- Washing powder
- A lock for your tent
Your bike should be in perfect working order at the start of the FNB W2W MTB. It will be subjected to severe riding conditions and we recommend that you replace any old parts that may not survive the distance. Select tyres that are suitable for harsh conditions. The use of tubeless tyres is highly recommended. Check your slime levels and top up slime. Various bike shops will provide repairs and servicing in the race villages. We anticipate a high demand for their services, so draw on them only when absolutely necessary. Replacement parts will be sold at normal retail prices.
Equipment Checklist
- Helmet, gloves, cycling shoes
- 3 sets of cycling shorts, tops, socks
- Wind breaker and / or rain jacket
- Sun glasses
- Hydration pack with space for spares – a capacity of 3 litres.
- GPS /Heart rate monitor, bike computer (optional) + Chargers
- Slime/Stan’s, bomb and adaptor, plugs etc,
- Gators, pump, brake pads, drop out, chain, links, pins
- Cable ties, duct tape
- Chain lube (Squirt)
- Spare brake pads
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MySOS is the recommended emergency app, and we require all riders download the app for the event.
Download your 2026 FNB W2W Rider Badge
The Rider Badge is available to any participant of the FNB Wines2Whales and can be used on any merchandise, including your rider kit for extra bragging rights. Please note that the right to use the official FNB Wines2Whales logo is reserved for sponsors and partners of the event only and may not be used by individuals or non sponsors in any way.
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FNB Outrides
Attention all riders! FNB Wines2Whales invites you to an exciting morning of outdoor adventure, camaraderie, and refreshments thanks to FNB.
Join our friendly and fun-filled casual outride, hosted by FNB, Race Founder Johan Kriegler, and Race Director Hendrico Burger. Ride alongside other FNB Wines2Whales participants and likeminded riders who share your passion for mountain biking.
12 September 2026
Holla Trails - Ballito, KZN
We’ll be exploring the beautiful Holla Trails, set in the rolling sugar cane fields outside Ballito. Expect scenic terrain, well-marked routes, and options to suit every skill level.
24 Sept: FNB W2W WOMEN'S RIDE
Paul Clüver
Join the FNB Wines2Whales and Trail Angels team for a Women’s Outride at Paul Clüver this Heritage Day. Designed to inspire confidence, it encourages women to connect and embrace new adventures on and off the bike.
3 October 2026
Cradle Moon - Muldersdrift, GAUTENG
We'll be riding through the expansive Cradle Moon Conservancy - 1600 hectares of pristine bushveld trails just outside of Johannesburg. Expect beautiful views, exciting terrain, and a ride that’s as scenic as it is satisfying.
Founder’s Ride
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10 October 2026
Lourensford Wine Estate, Western Cape
Don't miss the annual Founder's Ride at Lourensford Wine Estate on Saturday, 10 October 2026. This special ride offers a sneak peek at what lies ahead on the 2026 route, featuring a mix of brand-new trail sections and some rider favourites - along with a taste of the Gees to come in November!
Join us at Clay Pigeon Adventures on Lourensford and be among the first to experience selected sections of the upcoming FNB Wines2Whales route. Whether you're preparing for race day or simply looking for a great morning out on the bike, the Founder's Ride is the perfect opportunity to test your legs and sharpen your skills on a combination of trails.
Registration: 06:00 - 07:45
Ride Start: 08:00
Entry is R250 per rider and includes:
- A complimentary coffee, thanks to FNB
- A burger and Devil's Peak beer after the ride
- A USN goodie bag
Our partners will help make the day even better, with USN keeping riders fuelled on the bike, Devils Peak kickstarting the gees post ride, and the team from Plato Coffee setup on the ground - because we all know a Saturday ride isn't complete without the coffee to go with it!
Entries are limited to 200 riders, so sign up via the link below on the Clay Hub website to secure your spot and join us for a morning of lekker trails, lekker company and ofcourse a taste of the gees to come at the 2026 FNB Wines2Whales!
Epic Series Technical Partners
