Kate Leeming is an explorer who wants to discover different places on the planet by bike. She rides to get a better understanding of the environment and cultures, filling in the unknown gaps on a map by riding experiences. Taking on expeditions and attempting first time records across Africa, are not new to her. She has several first accomplishments to her name. In 2010, she set out to be the first person to cycle 22,000 km from Senegal to Somalia (most westerly and easterly points). In 2019, she wanted to be the first in the world to ride 1,600 km along the Namibian coastline in a month.
The Namibian coastline can be an unfavorable place. The terrain can be treacherous, the desert sands can be grueling, and the uncertainty of encountering a lion makes such an expedition unpredictable. It will test and push the limits of those up for a challenge, and the challenger must be mentally and physically fit. It's the survival of the fittest! Having the right equipment is paramount.
Crossing a desert terrain requires a rugged bike with good traction and grip. A customized all-wheel drive called a fat bike made for such conditions was taken for the expedition. Exploring the oldest desert in the world and an area known as the Skeleton Coast can be daunting and not for the fainthearted. It has its risks and rewards.
As an individual rider, it can be a solitary experience. This part of the world has strewn remnants of shipwrecks, a reminder that it can be a hostile place. Wind gusts can eliminate tire tracks, sand gets in the mechanics of the bike, and the need to be alert for wildlife corridors is essential. But it's enhanced by a supportive team, the locals, the towns, and the scenery. An adventure on wheels.
Leaves tracks of a thousand miles that began with a single idea.
Podcast
