CYCLISTS TARGETED - Activists put riders on high alert after attacks ahead of Cape Town Cycle Tour

CAPE Town Cycle Tour riders have been put on high alert after an attack on a cyclist went viral. 

The incident, described by the Pedal Power Association (PPA) as an alleged attempted hijacking on a popular Constantia training route, has raised safety concerns among cyclists preparing for the upcoming Cape Town Cycle Tour.

PPA said the attack occurred at about 6am on Sunday on Firgrove Road near the M3 bridge and allegedly involved a white Toyota Venture attempting to force a cyclist off the road while he was riding towards Constantia Uitsig.

According to the PPA, the cyclist took evasive action after the vehicle allegedly swerved towards him twice. He managed to turn down a side road and sought safety at Constantia Uitsig, where he waited for other riders. 

The association said it has also been alerted to a separate incident in Constantia involving a female cyclist. Footage of that encounter has been shared on social media.

PPA chief executive Neil Robinson said the organisation had received several reports in recent weeks involving alleged attempts to force cyclists off their bikes along popular training routes, including parts of Constantia, Hout Bay, Spaanschemacht Road and Wellington Road in Durbanville.

Robinson said: “We shared an alert via our social media platforms as criminal activities surface every year when cyclists are out in numbers training for the Cape Town Cycle Tour.

“Criminals are aware of the value of these bicycles and they attempt to force cyclists off their bikes, especially when cycling alone early in the morning.”

Robinson urged cyclists to ride in groups where possible, consider using a back-up vehicle during early morning rides, wear bright and visible clothing, and ensure lights are switched on.

The office of Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said victims must report incidents to police to ensure they are formally recorded and monitored.

Spokesperson Regan Thaw said: “If victims of such crimes don’t open cases, it makes it very difficult for us to monitor. They must lodge complaints with SAPS. The Premier remains deeply concerned over all road safety matters, whether they impact cyclists or other road users.”

SAPS had not responded to media enquiries at the time of publication, and no arrests had been confirmed.