Two beasts in my garden!

[This post was roared last week Sunday, but I never got to post it. Tonight I am relaxing in Johannesburg, missing my wife, kids (and bicycle ;-). So I thought I'd post it]

Behind the tree is my friend Percy's Scott Ransom 30 downhill bike. This is a mean machine! He kindly loaned it to me so that a friend from the US (Nathan Wendorff) who is visiting us here in Cape Town can ride.

The Ransom is a very versatile bike, although a bit on the heavy side. But it does have lock out full suspension. It could work as a cross country bike if it is the only bike one has. However, it comes into it's own on fast, technical single track.

In front of the tree is my 2008 Mongoose Canaan Comp. It is the entry level full suspension bike - I would love an 'Elite' or a 'Team' (the new black and red ones are awesome). However, my bike has been fantastic! I've done close to 3000 km on it in the last three years and had a few spectacular tumbles! Yet, it just keeps on keeping on!

It is always in full suspension mode so one looses some energy on the flat and the climb. But on the downhill, single track and rough climbs it simply sticks to the track. It is very forgiving. I often manage to get over obstacles that more experienced riders on hardtail bikes struggle with. Partly it is comfort, partly it is confidence.

I was speaking to my friend Philip today and saying that I mostly ride for the pure fun of it. Of course I am pleased with the resultant health and particularly how it keeps my weight down and manages my stress. But most of the time I will wake up early, on sunny days and rainy days, just because I know that I'll have fun on the mountain.

Indeed, this is my 'otium sanctum' (Holy leisure). What do you do for fun and relaxation?