THOMAS Andersen has spent the last six years cycling 58.000km through 58 countries around the world. Follow along at www.cyclingtheglobe.com.
Why do you cycle?
The condor is the most efficient animal on the planet. Put a man on a bicycle, and he becomes the most efficient in terms of the energy needed to move from A to B. Apart from the science, for me riding a bike is something magic; it has to do with the freedom of movement, being out in the open air, and having the opportunity to let the thoughts run free.
Thomas in the Andes in Argentina
What do you ride?
On my recent bicycle tour around the world I used three different bikes. The latest was a Specialized Rockhopper 29'er that I used in Africa and western Europe. I needed a proper mountain bike with thick tyres and suspension for the rough and remote dirt roads in Africa.
Tell me about your favourite route?
One of my favourite places on earth was the Laguna Brava route in the wild and stunningly beautiful Andes mountains between Argentina and Chile. I was cycling with a Swedish friend, and we both needed to bring 20 days worth of food. The road took us above 4,500 metres of altitude and was a real challenge. You can read about it here: http://www.cyclingtheglobe.com/2014/05/day-1301-el-penon-laguna-brava-reaching-new-heights/
Tell me about your best cycling memory?
I left on my cycling trip from City Hall square in Copenhagen on a cold October day in 2010. Six years and six days later I rolled into the very same square after having been around the world. Seeing my family and friends waiting for me there with flags, flowers and champagne gave me goosebumps.
Morning at Salar de Uyuni
What do you consider your most important piece of cycling equipment?
In my 'other' life I used to be an engineer, and I still like numbers. This is probably why I like my German GPS and all numbers and statistics it will provide. I have uploaded most of my rides to Stava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/tomandersen
If you could cycle anywhere where would that be?
After cycling around the word - how about Mars?
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