Yesterday, while spinning along a flat piece I had a moment to reflect on the past 22 years, and what it has meant to me with regard to MTBiking here in Windhoek. Crazy thought! No suspension, side-pull brakes, 18 gears, flat pedals, no slime or tubeless tyres, first generation helmets, long pumps BUT here comes the best - freedom to cycle anywhere around the city without any fear of being 'bike-jacked' at all! In fact the best area was the north-western side of the city where the many walking paths made by the residents of Katutura was the best single-track you could imagine. Most of our riding took place on the western side of the by-pass, and apart from the notorious 'Beast' there was very little riding on the eastern commonage.
How things have changed. The western side of the city has almost become a no-go zone unless cycling in a bigger group and the eastern areas have revealed some wonderful tracks. Not entirely safe as in the past, but at least more manageable. And how the equipment has changed. Full adjustable suspension, disc brakes, clip-in pedals, aerodynamic helmets, tubeless tyres (that cost double my first car in 1972), gas cannisters, camel-baks, and all kinds of gadgets to go with the clothing! Unreal.
But, at the end of the day one thing remains the same - it still takes the legs and enthusiasm to get out there and enjoy nature on a bike, free from all the hassles around you, in heat or freezing cold.
Some things don't change. Thank goodness.
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