Rehidrate...

If there is a black label next the couch...if not enter and do the homework/preparation. Map reading can be learnt, recce sections of the route, follow training program - you want to be as fit as for Cape Epic, get bike shop to show trail side repairs if you don't know, allow 26 days, test gear...Barry Futter who I rode with did it first time. But...train in the heat and have plenty Eehidrate. Good luck.

Sealskin socks are gortex socks that kept my feet snug. Lent them last minute to a connection that rode...I gather he wore them a lot.

Rode 2013 with 2 friends..."The Hout Bay Boys" had a great ride with good weather. I rank RASA up there with a 40 day mission my wife and I did in Himalayas.

Winter is probably better as the heat can be a problem in terms of hydration in summer. Find a friend to share the adventure, ensure you can read maps. Do Ride to Rhodes as a test run. Take the test...good luck.

I'm a backpack fan to keep the bike light...do test outings to discover your preference. You lug the bike around a lot! Have you tube video on Ride to Willowmore.

We started R2R in 2011 with maps in a bag and no lights...fixed that at end of day one with ice cream tub lid...also wore carbon Sidi's...didn't use those for RASA!!!

I zip tied a 2 litre ice cream tub to the handlebars and then attach a plastic folder with elastics. You need to keep constant awareness of where you are on the map. In my view don't need rotating map board. The 2 litres of storage is handy for snacks...just put in some padding and don't subject your compass or biscuits to all the rattling!!!