Africa Cycle Fair

Cycling has become the new golf. Every weekend, on less traffic-laden streets, we see people wrapped in skin-tight neon Lycra pedalling away and enjoying the sweet rush of endorphins caused by exercise.

Anyone wanting to join this ever more popular activity should swing by the Africa Cycle Fair next weekend.

"We wanted to have an event to which people could bring the kids and immerse themselves in cycling for the whole day. You don't even need a bike," says Rob Heath, the fair's director.

Now in its second year, the Africa Cycle Fair is intended to show people that cycling is more than about people spending absurd amounts of money to squeeze themselves into brightly coloured outfits.

''Unless you're at the competitive end of cycling, it's a very social thing. Cycling levels the playing field because, whether it's a R5000 bike or a R100,000 bike, you can chat freely while cycling."

The fair will offer a chance for enthusiasts and beginners to meet the manufacturers of bikes, parts and accessories, and everything in between. There will be bike testing, a children's area, a mountain bike trail and races.

''This is a coming together of the cycling community in South Africa. We are also holding it in the most popular cycling area in Africa," said Heath.

Sandwiched between all the two-wheeled excitement, food and craft beer will be available.

Everyone has fun when sun and spandex are involved and the Africa Cycle Fair looks like it will continue that proud tradition.

The Africa Cycle Fair runs from Friday October 24 for three days at the Nirox Sculpture Park, near the Cradle of Humankind. For more information visit www.africacyclefair.com