Taking back the streets
Urban exploration, city cycling and slick design come together with Hunter Cycling, a brand that represents the love of cycling, in all its aspects. ‘It’s a unique brand in South Africa because it does not focus only on the jockish, competitive side of the sport,’ says co-founder Melvin Neale. ‘It goes deeper than that – to the reason why all cyclists love to ride.’
Hunter organises events that are transforming the sport, bringing people into some of Joburg’s darkest, most dangerous areas, with nothing but speed to protect them. It all started when a group of Joburg cyclists tired of the usual route back-and-forth route down the spruit decided to head into the city for their cycling fix. The first event was Critical Mass, of which Melvin was one of the organisers, and in the space of a year what started with six cyclists now has close to 1 000 riding through the city past the bars and brothels of Hillbrow.
This however was not enough. Hunter Cycling was soon established and it introduced JoziHustle as a night race through the meanest parts of the city. ‘It’s dark, dangerous and very fast,’ says co-founder Ross Douglas. ‘Riders drop out with buckled rims from potholes and there has never been a stronger incentive to keep with the pack. One feels very vulnerable in the city alone with your beloved Italian bike and little flashing light.’
Along with Critical Mass and JoziHustle, Hunter aims to host several new events that are different to the usual races and rides. ‘These events could include long, full-day Gentlemans’ races on gravel roads in the Karoo, midnight criteriums in downtown Johannesburg, or even Cyclocross in Delta park with gourmet food stands and small artisanal beer gardens for spectators,’ says co-founder Greg Gamble.
‘The Hunter events are edgier that your usual cycling event,’ adds Melvin. ‘They push limits in more than just a physical sense. They challenge participants to go places they would not usually go, and they bond riders with their environment.’
The logical next step is creating a product line that reflects the trio’s ethos that ‘cycling is cool’. ‘The product that we aim to develop will express this passion for all things bike and will have a strong focus on design and craft,’ says Greg, who adds that it will be geared towards the discerning cyclist with an interest in good design.
‘There’ll be no over-branded lycra, but rather well-engineered, structured and restrained cycling apparel (and urban commuting apparel) and accessories with emphasis on quality and fit.’
Hunter will be showcasing their debut products at this year’s Sanlam Investments FoodWineDesign Fair. Pop past to view their range of gear that is ‘beautiful and functional, and that reflects a love of cycling.’
To find out more about upcoming events and product releases, visit the Hunter Cycling website at huntercycling.com