Visit Cape Town – Sidecars Rule the Roads!

Visit Cape Town in unforgettable vintage style with Cape Sidecar Adventures – where classic charm meets coastal adventure. Since 2004, these restored 1960s military sidecars have become a familiar and beloved sight across the Mother City, turning heads from Sea Point to Chapman’s Peak Drive.

How It All Began

Founder Tim Clarke first encountered these distinctive bikes while living in Shanghai in the early 2000s. Among the city’s bustling traffic, he noticed restored ex-military sidecars – elegant and full of character. Captivated by their timeless appeal, he sourced several of these decommissioned Cj750 sidecars, restored them, and shipped them to South Africa.

By mid-2004, Cape Sidecar Adventures launched with six sidecars and a big dream. Today, it operates 53 fully restored bikes – making it the largest commercial sidecar tour operator in the world. Since its inception, the fleet has travelled more than two million kilometres, carrying over 75,000 happy passengers through Cape Town’s scenic routes.

Riding Through History

The story behind the bikes is as fascinating as the ride itself. The Chinese Cj750s trace their heritage to the German BMW R71, cloned by the Russians at the end of World War II to create the Ural sidecar. In the late 1950s, the design was transferred to China, where the military produced their own version – the Chang Jiang 750 – used until the 1970s.

These once-abandoned machines have now been lovingly restored to their former glory. Each bike has its own name and personality – from Goldie and Sahara to Wanda and Lolita – adding even more character to the experience.

A Record-Breaking Fleet

Cape Sidecar Adventures boasts an impeccable safety record, with full compliance under South Africa’s National Public Transport Regulator. It is the only accredited motorbike tourism transport provider in the country offering full passenger liability insurance of up to R10 million per event. The company’s 85 local chauffeurs – some of whom have clocked more than 50,000 kilometres – ensure each ride is both thrilling and safe.

See Cape Town Differently

From chauffeured city tours to full-day Cape Peninsula and Winelands experiences, the company offers adventures for every kind of traveller. Cruise along the Atlantic Seaboard, wind through Chapman’s Peak, or enjoy a scenic stop in Stellenbosch – every journey offers breathtaking views, stories, and smiles.

Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong local, this is one of the most unique ways to visit Cape Town and experience its charm. Book your sidecar adventure and make memories that last a lifetime.

Follow the team: @capesidecaradventures and @brodysidecar.

This article has been adapted from the original piece published in This is Cape Town Magazine, Volume 5, specifically for the blog. To view the original article, click here or read the full magazine online at www.thisis.capetown/resources.