Easy run

Unicycle everesting #olympus

#olympus

In 2018, I completed my first unicycle everesting in 23 hours (https://www.strava.com/activities/1445153618). It was was brutal experience: a challenging course in the mountains around Los Angeles, high temperatures, and a bad crash. Since then, everesting has become much popular and competitive, especially during covid times, with cyclists frequently setting new records. I realized that there were a lot of aspects that I could have improved in my attempt, but never really had the motivation to put in the energy to try again. 

Last year, Mason Allen completed the second-ever unicycle everesting in 21 hours, beating my former record (https://www.strava.com/activities/12809801252). Thanks to him, I got inspired to give it another go. During the winter, I scouted several courses and settled with Limbergstrasse in Küsnacht: about 100 m elevation gain, 10% average (with 2 ramps at around 15%), rather straight and with perfect tarmac. This climb was previously used in the Tour de Suisse (https://youtu.be/GYViO3Ok55Y?si=GWXcVVgHCmI8q-ij&t=5463). In March, the #Olympus Mons unicycle challenge started, which was a great opportunity to practice and fine-tune my unicycle setup for everesting.   

The big day arrived: I took the first train in the morning and started my ride at 6am. Thanks to Föhn weather conditions, the temperatures were mild, and I got in a lot of fast laps. Later in the morning, I was joined by Tami who set up my basecamp - the “beer suitcase” - at the bottom of the climb with extra clothes and food. A nearby fountain allowed me to refill my water bottle regularly. 

The first half of the ride went smoothly. In the afternoon, the Föhn winds picked up and fatigue started to set in. Nevertheless, I was able to maintain a good pace until the end. I experienced no crashes or mechanicals, and my legs and stomach held up well. I didn’t need any extended rest breaks, just short stops for logistical reasons. In the end, I finished in under 14 hours and 30 minutes. Tami and Jamie were there to welcome me – I’m incredibly grateful for their support! 

Overall, I’m really happy about the outcome. It was pretty much the best I am capable of. 

Unicycle setup: Mad4One S frame with Agile cranks cut to 138 mm, Continental GP5000 622-32, Schlumpf hub with Brakefast adapter, bike seat & my own custom handlebar. Carbon rim and seat post, mostly Ti bolts. 


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Ben Soja

Unicycle everesting #olympus

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Easy run

Unicycle everesting #olympus

#olympus

#olympus

#olympus

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