About Us

OUR STORY

Crown Cycles was formed in 1949 by its founder W.J. Cloete, after returning from World War II, while being stationed at the Crown Mines. Situated in the suburb of Claremont, it was one of the first bicycle shops in Cape Town. W.J. Cloete was later joined in the 1950's by his son, William Frank Cloete. William was one of the Top Road and Track Cyclists in the Western Cape at the time, Winning some of the biggest races around, like the 25 Mile (ixl trophy) Track Race on 3 Occasions (1959, 1961 1962) as well as winning the South African Road Championships in 1959. William was one of the fastest Sprinters around and very few cyclists could pass him in a Sprint to the Finish Line. William eventually took over the business from his Father. Crown Cycles provided bicycle sales, all bicycle spares and repaired any type of bicycle available at that time. Crown Cycles managed to survive the bad times in South African History whilst moving premises often, but remained in Landowne Road being supported by their loyal customers. 

William was later joined by his sons Gary, Hilton and Oscar Cloete, who were also competitive Cyclists over the last 35 years. Together they have competed in many Western Province and SA National Championships, Argus Tours, to name a few. One of the Brothers has also received his SA Colors in Track Cycling. William eventually retired in 2012.

 

 With their knowledge of Racing over the Years, it's easy to relate to their Customers with friendly advice and tips, always striving to remain one of the Best Bike Shops in Cape Town.

 

                                               

                                William Cloete with some of the trophies he won.  -  Photo: 1959 and 1963

                                       

                                            William Cloete winning the 25 Mile on Boxing Day in 1959.

                                                 

                                   William Cloete finally inaugurated into the "Legends Of the Pedal" on Boxing Day 2015,   8 days before his 80 Birthday.
William Cloete with Former President of Cycling SA, William Newman.
Both Cycling Legends and Top Track Cyclists in their time.
Hilton, Gary and Oscar Cloete.
 
  

Former President of Cycling SA, William Newman with Oscar and Hilton Cloete, at the 2016 Western Cape Road Championships. Oscar Winning the Western Cape Title in his Category, and Hilton placed 2nd in his.

       

         
Western Cape Track Championships - Oscar Cloete, WP. Vets Scratch Race Champion 2024