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Sam Sunderland motorcycle circumnavigation record attempt

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2026-09-06 10:43 UTC → 2026-09-09 11:10 UTC · added ~~removed~~

British motorcycle racer Sam Sunderland, a two-time Dakar Rally champion, has initiated an attempt to set a new world record for the fastest motorcycle circumnavigation of the globe. Originally delayed from 2025 due to a spinal fracture sustained during training, the expedition officially launched from London on September 5. Riding a Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer, Sunderland aims to cover more than 29,000 kilometers across five continents and 16 countries in under 19 ~~days.~~ days, eight hours, and 25 minutes. This would surpass the previous record ~~of 19 days, eight hours, and 25 minutes~~ set in 2002. The route involves traveling through Turkey, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Morocco. To meet qualifying requirements, the attempt must be completed in a single direction, pass through two opposite points, and conclude on the same machine in the starting location. The journey presents extreme physical challenges, including riding an average of 1,600 kilometers daily and facing significant sleep deprivation. Recent observations from the start of the journey suggest the attempt may also serve as an unofficial reveal for a new Triumph motorcycle model. While initial plans specified the Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer, footage from the departure shows Sunderland riding a modified version of the Tiger 1200. This machine features new LED headlights, a redesigned front section, and a sensor suggesting the inclusion of front-facing radar technology, potentially providing a preview of a 2027 model.

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