The race behind the race – a conversation with the woman steering one of South Africa's most beloved cycling events.

In episode 14 of Suspension Sessions, Robbie and Glen sit down with Lions Karoo to Coast Race Director Zandile Meneses to uncover what goes on behind one of South Africa's most iconic mountain bike events.

From the rich history of Karoo to Coast and the unique appeal of Prince Alfred's Pass, to the immense logistical challenge of getting thousands of riders safely from Uniondale to Knysna, Zandile shares what it really takes to keep this legendary race rolling year after year.

The conversation explores the evolution of the event, the rise of gravel bikes, the difficult decisions that race organisers sometimes face, and the vital role local communities and the Lions Clubs play in making Karoo to Coast so special.

Of course, being Suspension Sessions, the discussion also turns to bike setup, suspension choices, and what riders should consider when preparing for one of the country's favourite point-to-point races.

Whether you're a Karoo to Coast veteran, planning your first ride, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of a major cycling event, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and passion that make it all possible.

In episode 13 of Suspension Sessions, Robbie and Glen sit down with Candice Lill fresh off her victory at the Absa Cape Epic, to talk about life, racing, and suspension setups.They unpack what it takes to perform at the highest level of cross-country and stage racing — from the intensity of the World Cup circuit and the Olympic Games to the unique demands of multi-day events. At the core of the conversation is suspension: how Candice builds a reliable baseline, adapts to changing terrain, and why confidence in your setup can make or break a race.Candice chats about lessons learned along the way, the small setup decisions that have a big impact under pressure, and how it all started — from the very beginning of her cycling journey at just three years old.Whether you’re chasing podiums or simply looking for more confidence on the bike, this is a grounded, insight-packed conversation with one of South Africa’s best.

In Episode 12 of Suspension Sessions, we focus on one of the most critical — and often overlooked — aspects of stage racing: suspension preparation.Drawing on real-world experience from working with riders at the ABSA Cape Epic, Glen and Robbie break down what it takes to get your suspension ready before the race, and how to manage it over multiple days of demanding terrain.From correct servicing and establishing a reliable baseline setup, to understanding the relationship between suspension, tyres, and rider fatigue, this episode covers the fundamentals that directly impact performance and consistency.We also discuss daily checks, what to do as fatigue sets in, and the common mistakes riders make — including over-firm setups and unnecessary mid-race changes.If you’re preparing for a stage race, or simply want your bike to perform consistently over long, demanding rides, this episode offers practical, experience-led insight into getting the most out of your suspension.🎧 Suspension Sessions is powered by RBC — specialists in suspension servicing, setup, and performance.