Your consent is required to display this content from youtube - Privacy Settings

Treasures of the Cape

Nils Hansen (@nils_wscycleworks)’s days often begin at 5am with a bike ride, soaking in the beauty of Cape Town’s landscapes. “Cycling is like second nature to me; it’s the ultimate freedom.” Weekends for him are a blend of car tinkering, family time and gardening – a passion that he’s keen to develop further. “Exploring new places with my family brings me immense joy”, he says. “I’m at my happiest when I’m working on anything outdoors and being creative with my hands”.

Transitioning from his beloved Volkswagens to a Porsche 924, Nils found himself drawn to classic cars when others were chasing the latest models. He wanted something special, something to challenge him. The Porsche became a canvas for learning and creativity, a testament to his passion for restoration and repair.

Film and photos produced by us for Type7.

“There isn’t really anything I haven’t collected I think for such a young person.”

Nils Hansen is the owner of bicycle shop Woodstock Cycleworks in Cape Town. For Nils, the essence of life revolves around celebrating things from the past with a deep rooted love for restoration and the upkeep of vintage bicycles. As a devoted collector, he finds joy in the narratives woven into old cars, art, unique artefacts and yes, bicycles. “I’m naturally drawn to things that have a story to tell” he explains.

We joined Nils in his workshop followed by a cruise around Cape Town in his Porsche 924 Turbo to talk to him about his love for collecting and repairing. For Nils, this is a life long love affair with objects that whisper stories of bygone eras, some of known and some of unknown origin. Growing up, he was surrounded by collectors, artists, designers and photographers. “They thought me lessons about how simply made objects show creative ability.”

Woodstock Cycleworks has evolved into a cultural hotspot over the past thirteen years, expanding from a modest 40 square meter shop to a sprawling space bursting with vintage treasures.

The shop hosts a myriad of events, from braais (South African BBQs) to swap meets and creative talks, attracting cyclists and curious visitors alike.

“There aren’t many shops that look like us in the world. It is a home for people of all cycling backgrounds” says Nils. “I have always hoped that the shop is like an old museum, a way to look back at what was there before.”

 

“I really learned to love how things were made in the past and how they continue to be loved into the future. That’s what I really enjoy about stuff like this.”

Step Inside Nils Hansen’s shop and you’ll encounter a treasure trove of vintage bicycles, old gear, sculptures, trophies and other eclectic trinkets. “All things that have been used and abused throughout the years. It’s really like a showpiece for creativity in some weird way or another” Nils remarks. His latest obsession? Anvils crafted from old railway tracks. “People can’t afford the real ones so they make their own, and everyone has their own style.”