On 7 February 2026, I clipped into a bicycle for the very first time and unknowingly started a journey that would change my life.
That morning, I arrived at Cradle with a mixture of excitement and fear. I had come across a group called Lifestyle Living Xperience (LLX) on TikTok and, despite knowing very little about them, decided to take a chance and book a bike hire. Looking back, it was a true leap of faith.
The reality was that I knew absolutely nothing about cycling. I had never owned a bike, never ridden one, and had no idea what to expect. My biggest concern was simple: What if I can’t balance and I fall?
Fortunately, the LLX team made all those fears disappear. The group consisted of people from different backgrounds, many of whom were meeting for the first time. Before we even set off, the team patiently helped me practise the basics outside the coffee shop, guiding me through mounting, balancing and stopping until I felt comfortable enough to ride.
Our ride covered 26 kilometres, and while the saddle discomfort was very real, so was the fun. I laughed, learned and pushed through the nerves. What I didn’t realise then was that this single ride would become the beginning of a passion I never saw coming.
I kept coming back.
Ride after ride, my confidence grew. What started as a complete beginner’s introduction to cycling soon evolved into mountain biking adventures, road cycling challenges, races, and unforgettable experiences along the way.
Today, it is incredible to look back and reflect on how much has changed since that first ride. The person who arrived at Cradle in February, uncertain and unable to ride a bicycle, is now someone who embraces every opportunity to explore on two wheels.
A huge part of that transformation is thanks to Lifestyle Living Xperience. Not only did they teach me the fundamentals of cycling, but they also created an environment where beginners feel welcomed, supported and encouraged. Special thanks to Jabu, Happy and Mbali, Kealeboga for being part of that experience and helping build such an inclusive community.
And to the Bomshovi family: you are truly the heart of the lifestyle. Your energy, friendship and genuine support are a big reason why so many people keep showing up. Every ride, every meetup and every shared adventure is made better because of the incredible people who make up this community. I feel blessed to have met you and honoured to have you as part of my cycling journey.
My story is proof that sometimes all it takes is one courageous decision to change the course of your life.
Sometimes, you just have to take the leap. You never know where that very first step, or pedal stroke, might take you.
— Dineo Mokgotho