Industry News

Local Brand Levels Up: Cadence Nutrition Repositions for Evolving Cycling Market

Paid partnership with Bikalot | Images by Fahwaaz Cornelius

By Press Office

After 19 years in the South African endurance space, Cadence Nutrition unveils a modern new look ahead of the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour – while staying true to its “No Hype. Just Science.” philosophy.

When riders walk through the expo at the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour from 5–7 March, they will notice a familiar name with a distinctly refreshed identity. Cadence Nutrition will officially launch its rebrand at Stand 27–28, showcasing its complete rebrand to the public -a new chapter for one of South Africa’s longest-standing sports nutrition brands.

Founded in 2007 by sports scientist Dr Jeroen Swart, Cadence Nutrition has spent nearly two decades supplying research-driven endurance fuel to South African cyclists. In 2025, the brand entered a new phase under the direction of Chris Wolhuter, who now leads the business as part of the BIKALOT stable, a South African sports brand and distribution company.

Modern look. Same proven formula.

The rebrand introduces a new logo, updated packaging and a cleaner visual identity across the full range. Most importantly, the formulations remain unchanged.

The refreshed packaging now places stronger emphasis on clarity and usability. Riders will notice far more visible carb-per-serving callouts, along with clearly communicated electrolyte and protein values. Each serving of CarboFuel, for example, contains:

  • 40g of carbohydrate
  • 1200mg sodium
  • 344mg potassium
  • 59mg magnesium

The brand’s core philosophy remains intact: no artificial flavourants, no colourants and no preservatives and no ingredients added without sufficient peer-reviewed scientific evidence.

The 2:1 Carbohydrate Ratio

At the centre of Cadence Nutrition’s endurance range is its 2:1 maltodextrin-to-fructose carbohydrate ratio – a formulation strategy designed to optimise absorption rates and reduce gastrointestinal distress during prolonged efforts.

Riders are encouraged to aim for a minimum of 60g of carbohydrates per hour during endurance events, achievable through CarboFuel alone or in combination with the broader range. Thanks to its light flavour profile and low sweetness, the product has long been favoured for both high-intensity racing and extended endurance sessions.

While high-carbohydrate fuelling strategies are now widely discussed, Cadence has applied these principles for a number of years.

You’ll see something new at the CTCT : Single-Serving Sachets.

Perhaps the most significant functional update is the introduction of long-requested single-serving CarboFuel sachets in the Red Berry and Citrus flavours.

Each sachet delivers 40g of carbohydrates and is designed for practical, pocket-friendly fuelling. The sachets retail at R30 per serving or R569 for a box of 20, offering added convenience for riders preparing for the Cape Town Cycle Tour and upcoming stage races.

Full Range Refresh

The updated range includes:

  • CarboFuel: Red Berry and Citrus
  • Marathon: Red Berry and Citrus
  • Revive: Chocolate and Vanilla
  • CarboFuel Bar: Berry and Salted Chocolate Caramel
  • Classic Energy Gel: Vanilla, Citrus and Mango

All products will be available for purchase at the Cycle Tour Expo and through key retail partners.

Positioned for a competitive market.

South Africa’s sports nutrition market has grown increasingly competitive, with global imports and emerging local brands entering the space. Cadence Nutrition’s repositioning strengthens its shelf presence while reinforcing its long-standing scientific credibility.

With approximately 75 independent retail partners nationwide, Cycle Lab stores, select Clicks stores, Takealot and alongside online sales, Cadence remains firmly established – now with a visual identity aligned to modern market expectations.

As the cycling landscape evolves, Cadence Nutrition is positioning itself as a confident and established local contender. In a market increasingly driven by bold claims and rapid trend cycles, Cadence Nutrition remains scientifically grounded, commercially focused and ready for the next phase of endurance sport in South Africa.