Frequently Asked Questions

How is a man with such skinny legs going to cycle 3000kms?

The pins are indeed slightly lacking in beef but they are the only pair I have got and they have served me very well so far. 1000 miles running across Cuba, 4 marathons, 3 marmottes, climbing to the summit of Elbrus and countless 2am dance routines and yet I have never suffered a serious injury. So they may be a little on the light side but as my Mum always said they don't make diamonds as big as bricks.

Where will you stay?

I will spend most nights camping. I will be carrying a one man tent in my trailer as well as all the usual paraphenalia including sleeping bag, stove and Gwalia song book.

The Mighty Gwalia

How are you getting to Astrakan?

I'll be getting the train from London to Astrakan. The route goes via Brussels, Berlin, Kiev, Harkov, Rtiscevo, Saratov and Volgograd. It sounds like a bit of a nightmare and there are plenty of things that could go wrong, but fortunately I like travelling on trains almost as much as I like cycling.

Any Company?

My sole companion on the ride with be BOB. Bob is an eight kilo mono-wheel steel trailer that will carry my worldly possessions behind my bike. Bob is strong, reliable and according to its makers will follow me to the end of the earth, but I'm hoping strong and reliable will suffice for this trip. Bob's owner is Tim Malloch who has kindly lent me Bob for the ride.

Here are Tim and Bob in action (you can find out more about the adventures of Tim and Bob at www.pushonnorth.com):

Isn't it really hot in Kazakhstan in June/July?

Yes. The reason for going at this time of year is that for 6 months of the year it would be too cold and during spring and autumn there seems to be an outbreak of wedding fever in the UK that I wanted to be around for. The hot weather will not be ideal but 30 degree heat will add to the challenge.

Are you related to Frank the Tank?

No. It is true that Frank the Tank has been a major influence on me, for example the running of the last 10kms of the Run Across Cuba naked, and in the use of a funnel as a drinking vessel. In the name of Frank I will spare a thought for the friends who will be enjoying a pretty nice little Saturday whilst I'm away, going to go to Home Depot. Yeah, buying some wallpaper, maybe getting some flooring, stuff like that. Maybe Bed, Bath, & Beyond, I don't know, I don't know if they'll have enough time.

I'm going to buy a new bike - which should I get?

There is only one brand. There is only one bike.

For me the Trek 1000 is the king of the cycle lane and always will be. Though they don't make the classic 1000 anymore, there is some new generation of this legendary cycle which I would commend to anyone who is thinking about investing for the first time in a bike with curly handlebars.

If you can get hold of a genuine 1000 then so much the better. For £449 back in 2004 my Trek has given me over 5000 miles of faithful service on everything from Lambeth's fork bending asphalt to 3 climbs of the Alpe d'Huez. It may be sporting a few alterations to the aerodyanmics thanks to our friends at easyjet, but a more reliable bit of aluminium you will not find.

Sadly the rigours of the Kazakh roads and the necessity of a trailer have forced me to leave the Trek at home for this adventure. Given the new saddle on my new heavyweight bike, it will be sorely missed.

Ask me some more FAQs