Van Deijl & The Cape EPIC
The Van Deijl TUDOR team, featuring renowned cyclists Hannes Kotze and Franso Steyn, made an indelible mark at the prestigious Absa Cape EPIC in 2025. Widely regarded as the most televised mountain bike race in the world, the Cape EPIC covers a gruelling 600 km and 16 000 m of climbing across South Africa’s rugged Western Cape. Accredited as hors catégorie by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), this legendary race is known for its extreme adversity.
This year, the addition of an innovative new time trial and challenging stages introduced thrilling competition for both professional and amateur mountain bikers. Amid the fierce rivalry, Hannes and Franso’s teamwork stood out. Hannes, with his vast experience in endurance racing, and Franso, a seasoned cyclist with an exceptional track record, formed a powerful duo. Their synergy and tactical approach were essential for tackling the prologue and the seven punishing stages, which included steep climbs, technical descents across breathtaking landscapes — spanning iconic fynbos valleys, majestic mountain ranges, deep ravines, and awe-inspiring coastlines.
Together, Hannes and Franso embodied the true spirit of the Cape EPIC — combining teamwork,
resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
The TUDOR “Cycling Edition”
Engineered for endurance and precision, the TUDOR Pelagos FXD Chrono “Cycling Edition” is the ultimate tool for every road.
The new Pelagos FXD Chrono “Cycling Edition” features a 43mm carbon composite case with fixed strap bars, cycling-specific tachymeter
scale and Manufacture Calibre MT5813, displaying hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph and date functions.
The TUDOR Pelagos FXD Collection
Developed to unique specifications and with the utmost precision, the TUDOR Pelagos FXD models are designed and optimized for real-world conditions.
The Pelagos FXD watches are a remarkable blend of high-performance technology and rugged design, specifically engineered for divers and adventurers.
Explore Van Deijl’s choice of the TUDOR Pelagos FXD, a timepiece that seamlessly combines durability, functionality, and style.
TUDOR
Pelagos FXDTUDOR Pelagos FXD Chrono watch, titanium bezel black carbon insert, fabric strap
R 103 700
TUDOR
Pelagos FXDTUDOR Pelagos FXD watch, unidirectional rotating bezel, black, matte dial
R 82 200
TUDOR
Pelagos FXDTUDOR Pelagos FXD watch, bidirectional rotating bezel, navy blue fabric strap
R 82 200
TUDOR
Pelagos FXDTUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT watch, 42mm titanium case, green fabric strap
R 89 300
An Exceptional Performance
It is therefore with great pride that Van Deijl announces the outstanding performance of the Van Deijl TUDOR team, who secured third place in both Stage 5 and Stage 6 in the Grand Masters Men category at the 2025 Absa Cape EPIC.
Stage 5, spanning 98 km and involving a challenging 2850 m of climbing, was completed by the team in an impressive 5:31:35. The stage began at Fairview, Paarl, and finished at the Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West.
Stage 6, covering 87 km with 2550 m of climbing, was completed in a remarkable time of 4:53:51, with Lourensford Wine Estate serving as the stage’s entire backdrop. For both fans and analysts, the Van Deijl TUDOR team’s performance redefined what is possible on one of the most demanding terrains in cycling, setting the stage for an unforgettable Stage 7.
The Grand Finale
Stage 7 was an electrifying grand finale held on Sunday, 23rd March, at the Lourensford Wine Estate. The 40 km stage featured a challenging 1050 m climb, and the Van Deijl TUDOR team finished in an impressive sixth place, posting an exceptional time of 1:57:30. This outstanding result marked the conclusion of the 2025 edition of the Absa Cape EPIC, with the Van Deijl TUDOR team proudly securing fifth place overall in the Grand Masters Men category, with an overall time of 30:02:48. What a world-class performance!
Not only did the Van Deijl TUDOR team compete with fierce determination, but they also showcased the strength of local talent in the world of mountain biking, emerging as the second South African team in their category. Hannes Kotze and Franso Steyn’s participation in this iconic event further solidified their status as elite cyclists, inspiring future generations of riders. Well done, Van Deijl TUDOR team!
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