Two-time Dakar Rally champion Sam Sunderland is preparing for one of the toughest motorcycle challenges of his career. The British rider is set to attempt a record-breaking ride around the world, covering at least 18,000 miles on a motorcycle.
Sunderland will begin the challenge from London on September 5, 2026, riding a Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer. His goal is to beat the existing motorcycle circumnavigation time of 19 days, 8 hours and 25 minutes, set by Kevin and Julia Sanders in 2002.
18,000 Miles Across the World
The planned journey will take Sunderland through multiple continents and more than 15 countries. The route is expected to include Turkey, the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, North America and Morocco before returning to London.
The biggest challenge is the speed required. Sunderland will need to average around 1,000 miles per day during the timed sections of the attempt. Ocean crossings will not count toward his riding time, but the journey must continue in one direction around the world.
Sunderland’s challenge shows just how demanding long-distance adventure riding can be. You can also check out our guide to the best adventure motorcycles for long-distance riding.
Riding for Around 17 Hours a Day
Sunderland expects to spend roughly 17 hours a day on the motorcycle, making the attempt as much a test of concentration and mental endurance as physical ability.
Unlike the Dakar Rally, where the terrain constantly changes, this challenge will involve long hours of riding on public roads while dealing with different weather conditions, traffic and time zones.
The journey is expected to cross five continents and 13 time zones, adding another layer of difficulty to the record attempt.
Why the Attempt Is So Difficult
To qualify under the challenge's rules, Sunderland must start and finish at the same location, travel continuously in one direction, touch two antipodal points and complete the journey on the same motorcycle.
The record he is targeting is more than two decades old, making the attempt even more interesting for motorcycle and adventure-riding fans around the world.
Sunderland's attempt will officially get underway from London on September 5. If he manages to complete the journey within the target time, he could set a new benchmark for one of the most demanding motorcycle adventures ever attempted.
