Singletrack/MTB
Gravel/All-road
Dirt-road Touring
Fat-bike
This year, Lael Wilcox is attempting to become the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe by bicycle. For all the details on her latest ambitious goal, dive in below…
After setting the women’s record in 2024, Lael Wilcox is back to attempt the overall record for circumnavigation of the globe by bicycle. With the explicit goal of beating Mark Beaumont’s current fastest time of 78 days and 14 hours, Lael aims to beat her last attempt by nearly 30 days. In her 2024 ride, she traversed the globe on a route that spanned 18,125 miles with 630,000 feet of elevation gain. This time, she’s attacking things differently.
Speaking to her upcoming ride, Lael said, “In 2024, I rode on a mountainous route with a fully loaded bike, averaging 15 mph (24kph) for 12 hours every day. Even at this pace, I just need to ride 4 more hours a day to accomplish the goal. I passed through all of the major cities and stopped to talk with fans and friends. This will be much more efficient with a support crew taking care of food, mechanicals, lodging, and logistics on a flatter route through the countryside.”
She went on to explain that the first attempt was a great training block and learning period, and that she’ll spend the early part of 2026 simulating the record pace and optimizing sleeping efficiency and aerodynamics. She aims to start her new attempt on June 7th at 4 a.m. at Buckingham Fountain in Chicago, with the finish goal being anytime before August 24th, 6:40 p.m. Lael’s partner, Rue Kaladyte, will once again be shooting photos and video for a feature-length film.
Aside from the overall record, Lael wants to inspire women and girls around the world through her dedication to this incredible goal. “Ultra-endurance cycling is one of the only sports where women can compete against the men. However, our capacity is still constantly doubted. We need more women to prove what’s possible. An around-the-world bike record is easy to conceptualize and directly touches so many communities along the way while inspiring people across the globe,” said Lael.
We’re wishing Lael the best in her latest attempt. For more on her journey, find her on Instagram.
Further Reading
Make sure to dig into these related articles for more info...
FILED IN (CATEGORIES & TAGS)
Dispatch
Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed.
