Solatrike - English edition

An exciting travelogue of a solar-powered recumbent pedelec bike from the planning to the temporary end at 40000 km, with all the incredible turmoil and adventures on the unique journey.

Swiss- born David Brandenberger doesn't have a clue about electrical engineering, solar systems and long-distance cycling, but he does have an idea. A project emerges from this and becomes, unplanned, one of the longest expeditions ever undertaken on a solar-powered pedelec recumbent trike, solo and out of a race. He cycles his "Solatrike" across the Silk Road from Europe through Asia and on and on despite all odds. An inspiring story that encourages you to put your idea into action and go your own way. Exactly what David wants to convey. Very big on this trip are the encounters with the locals and the breathtaking nature, which at times makes him sweat quite a bit. Breakdowns are part of the cyclist's life, as well as hair-raising bureaucracy, so emotions can sometimes ride a roller coaster with him. How do you explain a Solatrike to an official that doesn't fall into any category? David's flexibility is challenged, as he often has to change and adapt his plan. True to his motto, "If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans." Five years he is on the road on his pioneer journey through 22 countries, when after 40000 km there is a shocking turn of events and his adventure is at stake...

Autorentext
David Brandenberger, born 1970 in Urdorf, Switzerland, is an optician, photographer, painter, musician and initiator of the Solatrike project. With the Solatrike he drove 40000 km from Europe to New Zealand. He recorded the story of this journey in a book and published it in German and English. He traveled once for three months through New Zealand and Australia, and another time for a year through South America and to Antarctica. He started his solo travels with many city trips via Interrail throughout Europe. Travel and photography have always belonged together for him. In the meantime he has traveled and photographed all continents. The photos are just as central in his extraordinary multimedia shows.