Most of us know the veteran overlander Nick Sanders for his record-breaking motorcycle trips around the world, but his latest attempt is on something else – a Yamaha electric bicycle.
Nick is no stranger to pedal power, having pedalled his way to several cycling records before turning to motorcycles. He entered the Guinness Book of Records in 1981 by cycling around the world in 138 days, cutting that to just 79 days three years later. He still holds the record for fastest cyclist around the coast of Britain – now aged 65, he’s decided to opt for some electric assistance.

This will be Nick Sanders’ 11th round the world trip, and he left his home in Wales on 3rd September, planning to take 229 days to e-cycle more than 20,000 miles. Taking rest days into account that means cycling around 100 miles a day. By 19th October he had reached Saudi Arabia, having changed his route to avoid the war in Israel and Gaza. He’s aiming to ride on to India, SE Asia, then Australia and America before arriving back in Europe on 17th April 2024.

Nick has stayed faithful to Yamaha, using a Wabash RT gravel e-bike instead of his usual R1 or Tenere. In line with e-bike rules, it has a top assisted speed of 15.5mph, though he’s not relying on the electric power. “I’ve been training hard and slimmed down to 70kg to be 100% fit for the journey,” said Nick. “I’m looking forward to this ground-breaking e-bike world trip, which has been made possible with Yamaha’s support.”

BMF Chair Jim Freeman was impressed with Nick’s determination to set another world record, and how he was doing it. “The man’s mad, but in a good way. E-bikes are something I associate with trips to the supermarket or coffee shop, so going round the world is something else. Nick’s certainly an ambassador for Yamaha, I hope they look after him. Good luck, Nick’s going to need it!”

Written by Peter Henshaw

Top image courtesy of Peter Henshaw/Nick Sanders