A Solo rider

People might be well aware of the potential effects of cycling on the body. But what about the mind? It’s a question that has puzzled psychologists, neurologists and anyone who has wondered how riding a bike can induce what feels close to a state of meditation.

For me personally, I get lost into a wonderland while I’m cycling listening to my favourite music. The hour or hour and a half of cycling goes by in a fraction of a second. Even Scientists are confirming what most cyclists instinctively know – that riding a bike has extraordinary effects on our brain chemistry.

Hailing from Rajasthan, I've became Rajasthan’s first “Super Randonneur” after his amazing 600km cycle ride. For all those not aware, Randonneuring is long-distance, unsupported, non-competitive cycling within prescribed time limits are organized from France. The events, called brevets, are: 200km (13.5 hour time cut-off), 300km (20 hours), 400km (27 hours) and 600km (40 hours). Grand Randonnées are 1200km and riders must finish in 90 hours or less. My expedition was from India Gate in Delhi to Wagah Border. I was instantly attracted to this event as the route includes some breathtaking landscapes of emerald green fields alongside the serene roads of Delhi, Haryana and Punjab.

For me, it was more than that. It was a once in a lifetime experience to travel through different states in India, different cultures and meet different people. An experience that I would not want to miss. When I finished his ride in 37.5 hours at the entrance of Amritsar, I had the feeling of sheer joy of fulfilment.

For me especially, cycle expeditions and solo road trips are something that does not exhaust me, but something that calms me.