The hybrid BTWIN Riverside model cycle that was used for the travel to Goa
KOCHI: Passion for riding when combined with wanderlust gives birth to some crazy adventures. One such exploration was undertaken by Kochi-based techies Mathew James and Manu J Mathew recently when they cycled their way to Goa. Starting from Kochi, this unplanned, near-800 kilometre trip took them 15 days to complete, with the duo covering an average of 60-70 kilometres in a day. According to James, they rode from early in the morning to the time it became dark and had a fairly relaxed riding experience.
James added the rain and strong winds were a major challenge as their trip coincided with the arrival of monsoons. Plus, the bikes used by them were hybrid BTWIN Riverside models, which were not ideal for long-distance commutes. “We managed despite these difficulties, giving us experiences to cherish for a lifetime,” said James. As it was an impromptu trip, they relied on accommodation facilities in their friends’ homes when in Kerala, and turned to hostels and homestays once outside.
The duo took a long break at Gokarna to unwind in between their long commute. Time restrictions saw them ship their cycles and board a train back to their hometown. “We would love to do it again,” said James in an energetic voice, while concluding the conversation. James also had to visit his sister at a college in Pune, while his parents flew in, he decided to hit the road and head to Pune after visiting Goa.
Earlier, passion for football had prompted 28 year-old Clifin Francis from Alappuzha to cycle all the way to Russia to watch the FIFA World Cup 2018 and realise his dream of meeting Argentina’s legend Lionel Messi.
