Episode 110: Tristan Ridley (Part 1)

Ten years as a Long Term Bike Traveller

Tristan Ridley is no ordinary bike adventurer. Since 2015, he has cycled over 80,000 kilometres through 71 countries, a journey that began as a simple three month bike tour in New Zealand. Tristan jokes that the Gold Coast airport is responsible for getting him hooked on a lifestyle cycle travel – when he had to choose an exit flight from New Zealand, chose Papua New Guinea and then decided to ride home to the UK! This is the first of two episodes featuring Tristan and his long term bike travel adventures and I absolutely loved being able to learn more about how he has carved out this lifestyle for himself.

The Evolution of a Bike Nomad

Tristan reflects on how his approach to travel has changed over the years. Initially driven by the challenge to test his limits, he now pursues bikepacking for the sheer joy of it. He also opens up about his changing motivations as the years of travel have stacked up. His adventures have taken him through the jungles of Papua New Guinea, the scorching Sudanese deserts, and the majestic mountains of Central Asia, each journey reshaping his perspective on life, travel and himself.

Building Routes, Building Change

One of Tristan’s most notable achievements is the creation of the Kenya Bike Odyssey, a 1,000-kilometre trail through Kenya. This project not only showcases Kenya’s spectacular landscapes but also boosts local economies by encouraging bikepacking tourism. Tristan’s work highlights the positive impact that sustainable tourism can have on lesser-known regions and their communities.

Tristan shares how the collaborative efforts with local partners to develop routes have not only been exciting for bikepackers to ride, but are also beneficial to the local populations, by fostering a deeper connection between riders and the land they traverse.

Finding Joy in the Solitude and Community

Amidst the challenges and rewards of solo travel, Tristan emphasizes the importance of community. His connection to a global network of fellow cyclists and travellers has enriched his experiences and has been a source of support and inspiration. Through his role as a content creator, Tristan aims to inspire others to embark on their own journeys, highlighting the transformative power of travel and adventure.

Reflections from long term bike travel

As Tristan reflects on nearly a decade of cycling, we also discuss how it’s shaped him to be the person he is now. From questioning his motivations to redefining his purpose. It’s clear to me that Tristan’s travel and experiences have changed him, indeed – each journey has changed him. But it’s also clear he also toys with the idea of continuing to travel in this manner long term. I think something that has re-energised him in recent years has been taking breaks from life on the road. As he quips – sometimes he actually yearns the ability to ‘be bored’ – something he hasn’t felt for years. While bike travel each day can be condensed down into simple tasks, it also is a case that Tristan now finds himself busier than ever.

Follow Tristan’s adventures

You can follow Tristan’s adventures via his instagram channel – @tristanrid and his YouTube channel. You can also check out his website – www.tristanridley.com where you can read more details about each of his trips.

Be sure to keep an eye out for episode 2 with Tristan – where we get right into the detail of his most recent adventure though North America – Alaska, Canada and the U.S.A

The Seek Travel Ride podcast