Life Cycles: How One Bike Courier Circumnavigated the Globe In 169 Days and Broke a World Record

Julian Sayarer sets out to reclaim the world record for a circumnavigation by bicycle, riding an average of 110 miles a day and living on a daily budget of £8.84. His route leads him through Europe, Russia, Shanghai, Malaysia, New Zealand, and North America, passing through 20 countries and encountering a changing world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

When Julian Sayarer discovers that the world record for a circumnavigation by bicycle has been broken, and that this remarkable adventure has been commodified by banks and big business, he decides to leave his job as a London bike courier and embark on a mission to reclaim it. Determined to achieve his goal, he sets out on an extraordinary journey, riding an average of 110 miles per day and sometimes even pushing himself to cover as much as 240 miles in a single day. With a mere budget of £8.84 per day, he embarks on a six-month odyssey, traversing through Europe, Russia, and eventually reaching Shanghai in the east. His route takes him through a diverse range of landscapes, including the jungles of Malaysia, the rolling hills of New Zealand, and the vast expanses of North America. Throughout his journey, Julian passes through twenty different countries, experiencing the diverse cultures, customs, and challenges that each one presents. From encountering hurricanes in the Caribbean to sharing the roads with homeless cycling tramps in Europe, he faces numerous obstacles and setbacks along the way. However, his unwavering determination and physical endurance propel him forward, and he continues to push himself to the limit.

Life Cycles is not just a story of incredible physical endurance; it is also a captivating window into a changing world. Through his travels, Julian encounters a diverse range of people and cultures, from US trailer families to Chinese factories and Kazakh nomads. This thrilling tale of discovery and adventure serves as a reminder that the world is vast and full of endless possibilities, waiting for us to explore and discover. It is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and determination, and it inspires us to embrace the adventure that lies ahead, no matter how challenging or unpredictable it may seem.

Weight: 254g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529428469