Sam Sunderland begins motorcycle world record attempt

Two-time Dakar Rally champion Sam Sunderland has launched an attempt to set a new world record for the fastest motorcycle circumnavigation of the globe. Riding a Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer, Sunderland aims to surpass the existing record of 19 days, 8 hours, and 25 minutes, which has stood for over two decades.

The journey covers approximately 29,000 kilometers across five continents and 16 countries. Starting in London, the route includes legs through Istanbul, Southeast Asia (Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur), Australia (Perth to Sydney), New Zealand, and North America (Vancouver to Montreal), before concluding with a final leg from Casablanca back to London.

To qualify for the record, the rider must travel in a single direction, touch two antipodal points, and complete the entire route on the same motorcycle. The challenge involves extreme physical demands, with Sunderland expected to spend up to 17 hours a day in the saddle while navigating diverse climates, varying terrains, and significant sleep deprivation.