by Thomas Spronk | Mar 14, 2026 | News
If there’s one thing—besides bikes—that binds the Killat Collective, it is probably our deep love for coffee. Nothing beats waking up early, going out for a hike, trail run, or ride, and that first coffee after. Caffeinated rides have saved our days countless times, and when we are not able to ride or run due to whatever, our morning coffee is probably the next best thing.
Try asking the team about their favorite beans and ways of brewing and you’ll get all different answers (the same goes for their bike preferences or favorite Killat bag). I guess that’s what they call complementary.
Early Morning Rides and Swartberg Pass Adventures
Back in 2021, we were still figuring out the next steps for Killat. We had our first fleet of Mercer bikes on the road, and our range of bags was still quite new. We decided to plan a trip to Calitzdorp to ride the Swartberg Pass and its surroundings, hanging out with our family and friends while also taking the time to create some content and think about the future, before we parted ways again.
Early rides meant a 5am curfew to wake up and head out on time, something I was not quite used to since we were figuring out sleep patterns while travelling with a toddler. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that Ronald brought his pro coffee machine all the way from Jo’burg, allowing us to get some shots in before the trails.
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Crossroads
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Swartberg Pass
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Calitzdorp bike check
Connecting in Cape Town
A couple of weeks later, we had dedicated our time to organizing the Bicycle Film Festival in Cape Town, hailing from our temporary base in Sea Point. I remember waking up to the sound of Dane grinding his Comandante in our condo before we would jump on our bikes to head out and do a round of posters. This reminded me of how we became friends in the first place, riding our bikes up and down Suikerbossie before work while finishing off with a coffee at our favorite seaside spot. Connecting on the bike and over coffee.
The Limited-Edition Killat x Bluebird Collection
Fast forward to 2026. Some coffee stops have become vendors, like our friends at The Village Hub and Die Koffieman. We are all still crazy about coffee in our way. When friend of the collective and Killat lead designer Pete approached us with the idea of working together with Bluebird Coffee Roastery, we did not have to think about it; it was a done deal.
Based in Howick, Bluebird Coffee Roastery is a highly respected, award-winning specialty coffee roaster from South Africa. The project was started by Dario Scilipoti as a passion project that grew from home-brewing to home-roasting, and eventually into an international operation. Their quality-first approach, the 100% specialty vs. mass production focus: we could go on about how our values are the same.
We’re very proud to release the one-off edition Killat x Bluebird collaboration, featuring two versions of our signature Wax Moon hip and camera bag alongside four versions of our premium cotton caps. The design is based on the different Bluebird coffee flavours. The best part? We also got our own limited-edition blend which you can order the bundle via our site, directly via Bluebird, or in their shop in KZN.
Stock is very limited, so don’t wait too long to pick your favorite color.
+ Shop the bundle
+ Get the Wax Moon
+ Get the cotton cap
Killat x Bluebird
Creative direction and production: Pete Reynolds , Ronald Jacobs, Dane Zijlstra
A massive thanks to Pete and the Bluebird team-Dario and Katie- for making this happen.
Words by: Thomas Spronk
by Thomas Spronk | Nov 7, 2025 | News
The initiative entails Killat donating 20% of profits from all hornbill shirts and from all black and red products to support ongoing conservation efforts. The tees are now available in our South African and international online stores.
If you ask anyone on our team where we draw most of our inspiration from, the answer you’ll hear most often is nature. Whenever we go out for a run, a stroll, or a bike ride, we come back with new ideas for patterns and concepts.
Earlier this year, we were experimenting with hornbill t-shirt designs and testing out screen printing in Ronald’s studio in Johannesburg. While we worked, we found ourselves talking more and more about the birds themselves. The hornbill family includes 62 species, some of which are truly remarkable, like the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, known for its distinctive call that’s sometimes described as breaking into laughter: woh-woh-woh-woh-WAH-WAH-WAH-WAH.
The Southern Ground Hornbill
One of the most iconic species is the Southern Ground Hornbill, known for its striking red and black coloration. It’s partly what inspired our move toward black bags with a red logo, instead of blue. Fun fact: although they can fly, these birds prefer to walk and spend most of their time on the ground.
Unfortunately, the Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) is currently classified as Endangered in South Africa, with an estimated wild population of around 1,500 individuals. About a third of these live in protected areas like Kruger National Park, while the rest face threats such as habitat loss, poisoning, electrocution, and persecution.
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Field recordings
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The Scenery
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Stare off
A symbol of freedom, resilience and bold presence
At Killat Collective, the hornbill is more than a logo – it represents freedom, resilience, and bold presence. We felt compelled to help protect it. So we reached out to Dr. Lucy Kemp from the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project, and launched an ongoing initiative: 20% of profits from all hornbill shirts and all black/red products will be donated to support their conservation efforts.
Being the scientist she is, Lucy quickly pointed out that the Southern Ground Hornbill and the Protea flower don’t naturally occur in the same regions, but we like to think of this as our artistic interpretation, combining two of our favorites. So now, when you wear the hornbill shirt or any of the other selected pieces, you’re helping protect one of Africa’s most iconic birds.
We’re proud to share that the Mabula Project field staff are now using our bags during their conservation work. Consider donating directly if you’re not in need of more product.
Hornbill tees and selected Killat products
South Africa shop (free shipping in November)
• Everyday socks in black and red.
• Screen printed Hornbill shirts in black, navy and white (second batch, printed in Jo’burg)
• The polycotton cap in black with red logo.
• The corduray cap in black with red logo.
International shop (EU, free shipping in November)
• Everyday socks in black and red.
• Screen printed Hornbill shirts in pink or white (first batch, handmade by Ronald in Jo’burg)
• The polycotton cap in black with red logo.
• 1680 ripstop Wax Moon in rip black with red logo.
by Thomas Spronk | Apr 9, 2025 | Events, News
There is nothing like a good old alleycat race. Whether it’s the anticipating excitement when doing the organizational part, getting prizes and setting out the routes, or just taking part in it, it’s always a special vibe. According to Wikipedia, the first race to be called an ‘alleycat’ was held in Toronto on 30 October 1989 and continued, in its original form, around Halloween and Valentine’s Day for the following five years.
Alleycats give you a nice insight into what a local scene is about. Whether it’s a more fun and friendly variant or an extreme sufferfest, we never stumbled upon one lacking creativity nor competition. Back in 2022, we organized one ourselves as part of the Bicycle Film Festival in Cape Town and we were amazed by how much fun it is to host. Since then, our bikes have been taking part in some around the globe and we always try to support these community-building, grassroots races with prizes when asked. Most alleycats—for example, the ones hosted by Cape Town Rat Race or BXL in Brussels—are nice get-togethers and doable for all riders, whether you’re into fixed or geared bike racing. But there’s always a level up.
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Bikes at the start of the Cape Town Rat Race
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Podium ceremonies
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Zynn finishing his Cape Town Rat Race
One of the more stand-out ones we have been supporting since 2024 is Damn 24—a 24-hour endurance bike race spanning the distance between Amsterdam and Rotterdam. The objective of the race is to cover as many kilometers as possible within 24 hours. The next edition of the race kicks off on June 28, 2025, at noon (12:00 PM) in Amsterdam at TwoTone. It concludes 24 hours later with an awards ceremony and celebration at Rotterdam’s coolest cycling store Bikes and Records.
Crowds gather for the Damn24 at Bikes & Records in Rotterdam
We caught up with race organizer Carlos Meneses, current organizer/race director/all-around person in charge of Damn 24, to get to know a little more about this one-off event.
“My general goal is to make all participants suffer, both physically and mentally, as my own personal rides tend to have a similar philosophy.”
Skate mentality and underground cycling culture
“Cycling was never particularly in my background. I really started around 6–7 years ago. Before this, my background and knowledge were primarily in skating, particularly the longboarding part of it. My attitude towards cycling also comes from the mentality of a skater. Speaker strapped to handlebars, riding in cut-off shirts and sneakers, and a general disdain for the “taking themselves way too seriously” side of cycling. By pure coincidence, the YouTube algorithm led me to alleycat videos. Not too long after, I stumbled onto a poster for an alleycat in Rotterdam. I joined my first alleycat, and within 4–5 months, I was organizing my first one. This was finally a cycling subculture I agreed with—riding recklessly through cities with an unapologetic disdain for traffic and societal norms warms my heart.”
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Bikes & cameras
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Price award ceremony
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Wheelie time
“I jumped into the organization of Damn 24 last year when I heard from co-organizer Caio Machado that they were thinking of possibly asking for government subsidies. By this point, I was also the unofficial poster and spoke card art guy for Rotterdam alleycats and quite experienced with organizing alleycats around the city. As time went on and my previous job contract ended, I essentially dove headfirst into all aspects of organizing the second edition of Damn 24 and just kind of naturally took the position as main.”
Damn 24: A 24-Hour Sufferfest on Two Wheels
“Damn 24 was originally started by Lamri Adjis in 2021, the concept being a 24-hour race back and forth between Amsterdam and Rotterdam, the winner being the person to make the most kilometers within the period. Last year, for the second edition, I came in and added some minor twists here and there. To the riders that were sent to “Disneyland Aalsmeer” (a Dutch ode to the Orlando theme park with over 300,000 Disney collectibles, red.) late at night and are still haunted, that was all me, and I’m not sorry.”
This year, I’m fully managing the organization and, therefore, making the event mine with various small changes. My general goal is to make all participants suffer, both physically and mentally, as my own personal rides tend to have a similar philosophy. June 28 and 29 will bring pain in the best way possible. Last year, both Caio and I were honestly a bit jealous of the participants, so this year all preparations are being set up in such a way that we will also be participating and suffering along with everyone.
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Finish food
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Team (no) sleep
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Prizes at the finish
“This is a race, of course, but you should see it more as a personal challenge. Challenge yourself to a distance and go for it.”
Also, quick shout-out to the 12-hour alleycat taking place in Amsterdam this April—for an event with a way less sadistic outlook and, as far as I’ve seen, the biggest number of participants in a Dutch alleycat by quite a big margin.
Upcoming Events: When and Where to Race
Want to take part in Damn 24? Set your goal and register by June 4th. The Twelve Hour Alleycat takes place in Amsterdam on Saturday April 12th. Make your way to Groningen on April 19th to find a special Easter Egg Alleycat starting at Grote Markt and finishing at Spaak.
Photo credits: Dane Zijlstra, Ludek and Jeremy. Follow us on Substack for more stories like these.
by Thomas Spronk | Nov 22, 2024 | Bags, News
Earlier this year, we met up with Xolani Nojekwa, also known as X.
Born and raised in Langa Township, with a home in Khayelitsha as well, Xolani is a multi-talented visual artist who practices art, filmmaking, and photography. He is also the founder and creative director of the streetwear brand MISUNDERSTOOD.
Xolani made his exhibition debut in 2020 at the prestigious Zeitz MOCAA in the Waterfront as part of the group show Home Is Where Art Is. This year, he was selected as one of Cape Town’s Emerging Artists.
Earlier this year, Xolani launched his first short film, YANA, which raises awareness about mental health issues. The film is inspired by a campaign he started in 2018, You Are Not Alone. Derived from this campaign, the film aims to shine a light on mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
At its core, YANA is more than just a film; it is a powerful message of solidarity and understanding. Having faced his own mental health challenges, Xolani serves as both a storyteller and advocate, weaving a narrative of empathy and resilience.
As a self-taught artist, Xolani’s work is driven by a deep passion and an ambition to become one of the greatest artists in South Africa and beyond. He also hopes to inspire children in his township to believe in themselves, follow their passions, and chase their dreams. His love for street culture is unmatched, and he continually strives to elevate the scene, providing more opportunities and access for other artists.
Be sure to follow MISUNDERSTOOD and support Xolani’s journey! ‘
Photos by Pang Isaac
Xolani wears the 2024 New Moon hip- and sling bag
With special thanks to Josefin Jinx
by Thomas Spronk | Jun 7, 2024 | Bags, News
It’s time for Drift Festival this weekend, and we are proud to release the custom New Moon hip bag we have created for our friends.
Drift is one of those festivals quite close to the heart. With the industrial Vasim in Nijmegen as a backdrop, the festival has been known for sailing its own course for almost 20 years, treating its visitors to fresh and always surprising electronic music acts. Quality over quantity, just the way we like it. This weekend marks the 12th edition of their spring festival and, needless to say, it’s sold out.
The New Moon is a hip/sling bag with a padded rear panel and wings for comfort. The bag is designed to carry essentials for daily use: cell phone, shopping bag, keys, and a snack. There are two main compartments, separating valuables from keys to avoid scratches.
For this limited edition collaboration, we decided to use a selection of the dyed colors that matched Drift’s past identities, resulting in a timeless bag that represents all seasons. The bags are handmade with 340 GSM cotton, woven and dyed in South Africa, which makes the New Moon durable with a soft feel. Waxing will make the bag water-resistant, so it can also be used during Herfstdrift festival in the fall.
This limited edition bag is not available online but only at the festival grounds. So if you’re one of the lucky ones with a ticket, make sure to visit the merchandise stand early in the day.
Photos by: Jurre Nieuwenhuis
With special thanks to Brent, Diede, Lizet and the rest of the Drift team.
by Thomas Spronk | May 8, 2024 | Bags, News
If you cycle or drive around the Cape Peninsula, you know Scarborough’s The Village Hub and its small coffee stop outside. Whether you’ve visited once or come there regularly, you know the guys and girls who serve you with a smile and attentiveness, never too busy for a short chat.
One of these guys is Rodney, who, like so many people in South Africa, came to the country at 17 looking for a job and landed one. When you visit The Hub, chances are great he’ll be around working the coffee machine. Since coming to Cape Town, Rodney has been gaining knowledge about what it takes to run a small business and saving money to start his own.
Malawi is best known for its agriculture, exporting goods like sugarcane, tea, potatoes, and tobacco to the rest of the world. The country is also home to several distinct coffee-growing regions. According to CoffeeWDY, “Malawi primarily cultivates Arabica coffee, known for its superior quality and distinct flavor profiles. Arabica coffee plants thrive in the high-altitude regions of Malawi, benefiting from the cool temperatures and adequate rainfall that contribute to the development of nuanced flavors in the beans. While other varieties, such as Robusta, are grown in the country, Arabica remains the dominant and sought-after variety for its exceptional cup quality.”
Maloto
2023 has been a tough year. As Rodney is from Blantyre, his family was heavily affected by Hurricane Freddy in the beginning of 2023. An uncle and three of his nephews died in the disaster and the storm wiped out his livestock, meaning seven caws. Additionally, he lost his brother, who was staying with him in Cape Town, in a fatal accident.
Rodney’s hometown Salima is near Lake Malawi National Park. Located at the southern end of the great expanse of Lake Malawi, with its deep, clear waters and mountain backdrop, the national park is home to many hundreds of fish species, nearly all endemic. Its importance for the study of evolution is comparable to that of the finches of the Galapagos Islands (source: Unesco).
Next July, Rodney is planning on going back to make Maloto (The Dream) a reality: a coffee shop of his own. You can show your support by donating any amount to his fundraiser campaign. In the meantime we dream about riding to Malawi from South Africa to end up at Lake Malawi shores.
Photos by Milan Goldbach
With specials thanks to Rodney and The Village Hub, Scarborough (Cape Town).
