5 cycling journeys to inspire your own

I love cycling, and I love cycle touring. Riding from New York to Hong Kong was probably the best and most formative experience of my life to date. Now that I have a (semi-)permanent base in London however, for the time being I have to get a lot of my epic touring kicks vicariously from following the trips of others online. Luckily, there is no shortage of seriously cool bicycle journeys going on all over the world. Here are some of my favourite (some ongoing, some recently finished.)

1. Tim and Laura Moss
Tim and Laura set off from England last year and have have ridden through Europe, the Middle East and India. They are currently pedalling across South East Asia (and even managed a quick detour into Japan and South Korea.) Tim grows a wonderful beard and Laura is really clever - their blogs make great reading!

2. Charlie Walker
Charlie starting pedalling in 2010 with a hugely ambitious plan for getting around the world. At this point in 2014 he's still going, and if anything he's managed to make it even more ambitious and exciting as he goes. Highlights from his blog have included his cycling experiences in the Middle East, a bit of horse-powered travel in Mongolia (not to mention walking in the Gobi) and his current adventures in Central Africa.

3. Cycling Cindy
I've only recently come across this site, but Cindy's adventures (alone) around the world make a great read - especially her stuff on the Arabian Peninsula. The blog is an excellent mix of slightly mad and wholly marvellous. 

4. Andy Smith, Smudger's Samba Cycle
This is one that's just finished, but Andy's ride around Brazil (between all the World Cup Stadiums, finishing in Manaus for the first England game) was one of the most jealously-enducing rides I've followed for a long time. That's the highest compliment I can pay a journey! His blog is full of great stories, and he's still out there soaking up the football.

5. Tom Allen, #FreeLEJOG
Tom's previous bike trips have taken him to far-flung wild places, but this is one of his best, I think - a trip north through the UK on a recycled bike with a budget of £0.00. After reading this, there are no more excuses left for the procrastinating tourer....

Finally, two special mentions - firstly for Rob Lutter and his Lifecycle project. Another round-the-world-er, Rob's trip is exceptional because of the photos - they're some of the best I've seen from any cycling trips. 
Secondly, the Young Philanthropists - three Americans riding across Europe, doing good along the way. Great stuff!

---

Any that I've missed out? Let me know which cycling trip you're following (or are on yourself, perhaps...)

---