Around the World on Two Wheels: An Epic Adventure by Motorcycle

In the annals of adventure travel, the name Ewan McGregor stands tall. The Scottish actor and motorcycle enthusiast has embarked on some of the most ambitious and challenging motorbike journeys ever undertaken, including a six-month, 18,000-mile ride from London to New York City in 2004. But it was his subsequent journey, a two-year, 49,000-mile circumnavigation of the globe, that truly cemented his status as a legendary adventurer.

In 2007, McGregor set off from London on a custom-built BMW R1200GS motorcycle, accompanied by his friend and fellow actor Charley Boorman. The pair rode through nearly 50 countries across five continents, encountering a vast array of cultures, landscapes, and challenges along the way. Their journey was chronicled in the popular television series Long Way Round and the subsequent book of the same name.

Around The World On Two Wheels: Annie Londonderry’s Extraordinary Ride: Annie Londonderry's Extraordinary Ride

by Peter Zheutlin

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	470 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	273 pages
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The journey was not without its perils. McGregor and Boorman faced extreme weather conditions, mechanical problems, and even a serious accident in southern Sudan that left Boorman with a broken leg. But through it all, they persevered, driven by their passion for adventure and their unyielding determination to complete their journey.

One of the most memorable moments of the trip came when McGregor and Boorman reached the Arctic Circle in northern Norway. They were greeted by a group of Sami reindeer herders, who welcomed them into their traditional lavvu tent and shared their stories and culture. It was a profound experience that gave McGregor and Boorman a glimpse into a way of life far removed from their own.

As they continued their journey, McGregor and Boorman encountered a diverse cast of characters, from nomadic tribes in Mongolia to Bedouin traders in the Sahara Desert. They learned about different religions, customs, and traditions, and they came to appreciate the interconnectedness of the human experience.

The journey also had a profound impact on McGregor and Boorman themselves. They learned to rely on each other in the face of adversity, and they developed a deep friendship that would last long after the journey was over. They also came to a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

In the end, McGregor and Boorman returned to London as heroes, having accomplished something truly extraordinary. Their journey had not only been an adventure of a lifetime, but it had also been a journey of self-discovery and a testament to the human spirit.

McGregor's Motorcycle

The motorcycle that McGregor rode on his around-the-world journey was a custom-built BMW R1200GS. The R1200GS is a dual-sport motorcycle that is known for its off-road capabilities and long-distance comfort. McGregor's bike was equipped with a number of special features, including a custom suspension system, a larger fuel tank, and a variety of luggage racks and panniers.

The R1200GS proved to be an ideal choice for McGregor's journey. It was able to handle the rough terrain and long distances of the journey, and it was comfortable enough for long days in the saddle. The bike also proved to be reliable, with only a few minor mechanical problems during the entire journey.

The Route

McGregor and Boorman's journey took them through nearly 50 countries across five continents. They started in London and rode through Europe, Asia, North America, South America, and Africa. The route was carefully planned to avoid major highways and to allow McGregor and Boorman to experience the local cultures and landscapes.

The journey took McGregor and Boorman through some of the most beautiful and challenging terrain on Earth. They rode through towering mountains, lush rainforests, and vast deserts. They crossed freezing rivers, climbed steep mountain passes, and navigated treacherous off-road trails.

Along the way, McGregor and Boorman encountered a wide variety of cultures and peoples. They visited ancient ruins, met with local tribes, and learned about different religions and customs. The journey was a truly transformative experience for both of them.

The Challenges

McGregor and Boorman's journey was not without its challenges. They faced extreme weather conditions, mechanical problems, and even a serious accident in southern Sudan. But through it all, they persevered, driven by their passion for adventure and their unyielding determination to complete their journey.

One of the most challenging aspects of the journey was the extreme weather conditions. McGregor and Boorman rode through snowstorms, monsoon rains, and scorching heat. They also had to contend with altitude sickness, dehydration, and fatigue.

Mechanical problems were also a constant challenge. The motorcycles took a beating on the rough terrain, and McGregor and Boorman had to make repairs on a regular basis. They also had to contend with flat tires, electrical problems, and fuel leaks.

The most serious challenge of the journey came in southern Sudan, when Boorman crashed his bike and broke his leg. The accident could easily have ended the journey, but McGregor and Boorman refused to give up. They arranged for Boorman to be evacuated to a hospital, and McGregor continued on his own.

McGregor and Boorman's journey was a testament to their perseverance and determination. They faced countless challenges along the way, but they never gave up on their dream of completing their journey.

The Legacy

McGregor and Boorman's around-the-world journey has had a lasting impact on the world of adventure travel. Their journey inspired countless others to embark on their own adventures, and it helped to raise awareness of the beauty and diversity of the world.

The journey also had a positive impact on the lives of McGregor and Boorman. They learned about different cultures, they made lifelong friends, and they came to a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

McGregor and Boorman's journey is a story of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. It is a story that will continue to inspire people for generations to come.

Around The World On Two Wheels: Annie Londonderry’s Extraordinary Ride: Annie Londonderry's Extraordinary Ride

by Peter Zheutlin

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	470 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	273 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE