We've all learned a heck of a lot in the last year - not least Messrs Abraham & Searvogel. One of the things they have learned is that, even with planning and support, and modern technology, Godwin's achievement remains awesome, and there are very good reasons why no one has been able to surpass him in the intervening decades.
But a few things stand out as obstacles to be avoided, and I was musing on what the best shot at beating whatever record the Titans set might look like.
Firstly, I think that the steed(s) of choice would be a lightweight recumbent. Kurt has put in some good fast miles on his, and I think both have suffered to a greater or lesser extent with sores, which are normally less of a problem on bent. Obviously, more than one would be a good plan. Steve's three bike system seems to work well.
Secondly, choice of terrain. Steve has the flatlands of East Anglia, but the wind can be proper fierce there, and he can only just get a full day's ride downwindish before turning back into it. A flattish, partially sheltered, area would be ideal (but I don't know where there is one), with space to run the wind for longer spells, although nothing so flat that it just becomes completely monotonous. Steve says he likes the odd rise & fall.
Thirdly, mobile support seems to have worked pretty well for Kurt & Alicia. Sound move. Only drawbacks have been when bikes have fallen off the rack (thankfully that doesn't seem to happen so much now they've changed that), and finding accommodating bike stores in unfamiliar areas. I would say that two support crew would be ideal, which would mean no driving for the rider, and more time for mechanicing, as well as more ability to transfer overnight. Of course, that would cost more, but I'm just suggesting ideas.
Fourthly, weather. Kurt has struggled with rain and lowish temperatures, and Steve has faced ice and siling rain. Moving venue exposed Kurt to violent winds and to extreme heat. A compromise needs to be sought, and the year's travelling activity should be planned around this plan.
Fifthly, road choice. The obvious routes would be A roads or the equivalent, but Kurt has suffered from heavy lorry traffic and poor road surfaces. I presume Steve has had similar experiences. It's not easy to find routes that are fast enough (i.e. fewest junctions), flat enough, and clear of traffic. More summer riding at night might be an idea, should the rider be able to manage it.
Sixthly, company. It seems to be very lonely out there on the road, so planning in meets with other riders should break the monotony. Kurt seems to have had a great lift in recent days from people turning out to do a stint with him. And, of course, Alicia has managed to get a few miles in too.
Seventh, Diet. Steve has had a radical change of diet mid-ride. This was forced by circumstance, but maybe the diet needs to be planned carefully in advance, and adapted to before the attempt starts.
Eightthly, Social Media. Alicia has managed the social media pretty well, posting short videos every few days, and updates almost every single day, often several times. This has sustained and built the interest and support as the attempt has gone on. Though this must take quite a bit of time and effort, it seems to be worth it, and has helped to get riders out on the hamster wheel.
I think that pretty much covers it, but none of this would be any good without, at the centre, an utterly awesome rider. Those of the calibre of Steve and Kurt and Tommy do not come along often, so it remains to be seen whether there will be any more attempts. Personally, I hope so.
