Class C
Standard Bicycles
Divided into five sub-groups (C1 to C5). C5 cyclists are the most able-bodied within the class. Compete on standard track and road bicycles to UCI regulation.
5 sub-groups
Our Sports
Para Cycling
Introduction
Built For Every Rider
Para cycling is open to athletes with all physical disabilities. If an athlete can operate a cycle, handcycle, tricycle, or bicycle, they can be classified to compete. From road race finishers to track sprinters, South African para cyclists ride at the highest level of world sport.
How the Sport Works
Four Disciplines, One Sport
SASAPD caters to junior athletes from U15 to U21. Within these age groups, riders are classified into one of four major cycling disciplines depending on their functionality. Each class has its own competitive structure aligned to UCI regulations.
Class H
Handcycles
Seated and reclining handcycles across four classification groups (H1 to H4). H1 represents the least able riders — typically athletes with lower limb paralysis or above-knee amputees. The handcycle category is one of the fastest-growing in para sport.
4 sub-groups
Class T
Tricycles
Two groups. T2 is for cyclists with lower limb impairments like diplegia. T1 is for cyclists with arm and leg impairments using three-wheel cycles conforming to UCI regulations. Tricycles offer stability while preserving competitive racing speeds.
2 sub-groups
Class B
Tandem Cycling
Tandem cycling for visually impaired athletes. Each rider competes alongside an able-bodied pilot at the front of the tandem. The B class also competes in track cycling events alongside the C class.
Sighted pilot
Roll of Honour
Our Paralympic Medallists
Every Para Cycling athlete who has stood on a Paralympic podium for South Africa. Ranked by total medals won.
Pieter du Preez
🥇 1 Gold🥉 1 Bronze
1 Gold (2020), 1 Bronze (2024)
Ernst van Dyk
🥇 2 Gold🥈 1 Silver
2 Gold (2008, 2016), 1 Silver (2012)
Full Roll — 5 Athletes
- 2Pieter du Preez1 Gold (2020), 1 Bronze (2024)🥇 1🥉 1
- 2Riaan Nel1 Silver (2008), 1 Bronze (2004)🥈 1🥉 1
- 3Ernst van Dyk2 Gold (2008, 2016), 1 Silver (2012)🥇 2🥈 1
- 1Gavin Kilpatrick1 Bronze (2008)🥉 1
- 1Marius Louw1 Bronze (2000)🥉 1
Paralympic Representation
Forty Years of Paralympic Cycling
Cycling made its Paralympic debut at the 1984 Games. The sport now offers 34 gold medals in road events alone at each Paralympic Games. South Africa has sent cycling teams to the last four Paralympics — strong representation, sharper ambitions for Los Angeles 2028.
34
Gold medals in road events
1984
Paralympic debut year
4
Recent Games attended by SA
Our Sponsors
Our Proud Sponsors
Our partners power South African para cycling. From grassroots to Paralympic podiums.
