Kevin Panhuyzen sets out to conquer the Cape Epic on a Raft RS
At this moment, the multi-day mountain bike race Cape Epic is taking place in South Africa. Kevin Panhuyzen is also competing here as a member of the Alupex Belgian Pandas. The rider from Loo is using a Raft RS. This full-suspension MTB has already proven its value at the very highest level in recent years.
The Absa Cape Epic takes place in the western part of South Africa, in the proverbial backyard of Cape Town among the vineyards. This iconic race has now reached its 22nd edition. Within mountain biking, the Cape Epic is regarded as the toughest race, with eight stages covering 692 kilometers and more than 15,900 meters of elevation gain. It is therefore not surprising that every mountain biker wants to stand at the start of this magnificent challenge at least once in their career.
The Absa Cape Epic takes place in the western part of South Africa, in the proverbial backyard of Cape Town among the vineyards. This iconic race has now reached its 22nd edition. Within mountain biking, the Cape Epic is regarded as the toughest race, with eight stages covering 692 kilometers and more than 15,900 meters of elevation gain. It is therefore not surprising that every mountain biker wants to stand at the start of this magnificent challenge at least once in their career.
For Panhuyzen, the 2025 edition was his baptism of fire. As a former world champion in gravel (among amateurs), he had already experienced a great deal, but this was truly unique. The rider from Fietsen Storms returned this year as one of three Belgians, aiming for a top 10 finish. However, due to the return of the rugged Montagu section in the course, it is difficult to express concrete ambitions.
In the prologue, the duo started well with a 13th place. Subsequently, Panhuyzen and Claes continued to perform very consistently. They finished every day between 14th and 18th place and, on the eve of the weekend, are in 22nd place in the general classification. The muddy sections and the abrasions on their bodies tell enough about what they have been through along the way.
Photos: @justas_juozaitis & @wimvdw & @magicofacamera
In the prologue, the duo started well with a 13th place. Subsequently, Panhuyzen and Claes continued to perform very consistently. They finished every day between 14th and 18th place and, on the eve of the weekend, are in 22nd place in the general classification. The muddy sections and the abrasions on their bodies tell enough about what they have been through along the way.
Photos: @justas_juozaitis & @wimvdw & @magicofacamera
Kevin’s bike
The Raft RS is designed as a pure race bike: light (carbon frame), efficient, and focused on maximum power transfer, featuring, among other things, a remote lockout and modern geometry that optimally combines climbing and descending. Notable features include the steep seat angle and longer wheelbase, which ensure an aggressive climbing position and greater stability in technical descents. Panhuyzen built his bike with high-end components such as Shimano XTR Di2 and fast tires with low rolling resistance, fully tailored to competitive use. In addition, the bike is practically suited for demanding stages thanks to multiple mounting points for extra equipment.
