Episode 89: James Benson-King

A Bike Tour from Alaska to Ushuaia

In this episode I feature James Benson-King, a passionate cyclist who embarked on a pretty adventurous journey from Alaska to Ushuaia. Covering over 31,500 kilometres, James’ adventure took him through North and South America, showcasing the diverse landscapes and cultures along the way.

Discovering a Passion For Cycling Adventures

James’s journey began with a fascination for adventure. After completing various smaller tours in the UK, including the famed Lands End to John O’Groats route, he set his sights on a monumental challenge: cycling from the northernmost point of Alaska to the southern tip of Argentina. Inspired by a fellow cyclist he met in Southeast Asia, James took on this epic tour in 2022.

For James, the joy of cycling lies not just in reaching destinations, but in embracing the journey itself. His philosophy is simple: every kilometer traveled must be cycled, not driven or skipped. This self-imposed rule allowed him to immerse fully in the landscapes and cultures he encountered, experiencing every inch of the route without shortcuts.

Challenges and Triumphs Along the Way

One of the significant challenges James faced was in Baja, California, where he encountered a major mechanical issue. His left pedal crank came off his bike, leaving him to ride nearly 900 kilometers using only his right leg. It was a test of his resilience, determination, and problem-solving skills. From using a Coke can to fashion a temporary fix to ultimately pedaling a great distance on one leg, James showed that no obstacle is insurmountable with the right mindset and ingenuity.

James’s dedication to completing every kilometre of his journey by bike also meant pushing through difficult weather conditions. He experienced everything from snowstorms in Alaska to the rainy season in the Peruvian Andes. These challenges only heightened his appreciation for the journey and the personal growth that comes with overcoming adversity.

Meeting Communities and Making Memories

One of the most enriching aspects of James’s journey was the people he met along the way. From the warm hospitality of a Mexican family who treated him like a celebrity to the impromptu Creole language lesson he received in Belize, James’s interactions with locals brought a profound sense of connection and joy to his travels.

A particularly memorable experience occurred in Guatemala, where James camped with a view of an erupting volcano. Such spontaneous and awe-inspiring moments were frequent during his journey, reaffirming his love for adventure and discovery.

Reflections on the Journey

Returning home to the UK, James continues to reflect on his incredible journey. One of the biggest lessons he learned was the value of flexibility and acceptance. The unpredictable nature of long-distance cycling taught him to embrace changes and setbacks, viewing them as opportunities for growth.

His journey also deepened his sense of gratitude and resilience, qualities that he now carries into every aspect of his life.

Looking Forward: The Antarctica Challenge

Not one to rest on his laurels, James is already planning his next big challenge: cycling across Antarctica. Inspired by the journey of ultra-cyclist Omar de Felice, James sees this as the ultimate test of his endurance and resilience. He’s currently in the planning and training stages, aiming to tackle this formidable challenge by 2026.

Follow James’s Journey

To stay updated on James Benson-King’s adventures, you can follow him on Instagram and YouTube under the handle @bikingvikingrides. He also shares insights and updates on his website at www.bikingvikingrides.co.uk

Until the next adventure, keep exploring and embracing the road less travelled

The Seek Travel Ride podcast