When we heard Robert Groves’ story and what he was attempting to do, the whole team were in awe! Not only were we in awe of Roberts’s ability to not let a life altering disability stop him, but also in awe at the causes he was riding for and we were thrilled to be a part of their adventure.
THE CHALLENGE
On the 2nd July Robert, along with friends, began the 2,500 mile cycle challenge around the coastline of England in an attempt to raise money for four charities close to his heart. This was a journey that has never been achieved before using a bicycle, not to mention by someone hand-pedalling due to a disability! As a result of the ride Robert aimed to raise funds for conservation and cycling charities. Additionally Robert hoped to raise awareness for putting environmental issues on the school curriculum.
THE JOURNEY
The team started off from West Sussex on a sunny morning in July with Robert hand cycling and his team mates on Haibike ePerformance bikes; First stop, New Forest and the Dorset coastline! The bikes used were kindly loaned from Martin Brown of e-bikeshop.co.uk and Haibike UK. Roberts friends Carlo and Elizabeth selected the Hardseven 4.0; one XDURO model, powered by Bosch engineering, and one SDURO model, with a Yamaha motor.
During their adventure, they had the fortune to be able to travel some of the most scenic roads in the south west of England. The views were picturesque miles of unspoiled rolling hills and stretching coastlines. The team met with members of coastal communities, who, behind the scenes organise beach cleans, produce educational material, introduce plastic reduction schemes, monitor sealife and who create petitions for change in the way we care for our waters.
THE VERDICT
Carlo and Elizabeth Marogna who cycled with Robert commented on the performance of the Haibikes;
“The Haibike ePerformance bikes are superb up hills and down dales but also excel in the urban environment, a modern revolution in personal mobility! Those who enjoy the freedom of cycling, but not the effort sometimes involved, or those who might benefit from the motor assistance will find these bikes just the thing for improving the quality of one’s life, health and enjoyment of the great outdoors.”
“The all terrain ability of these machines makes for exhilarating fun and the outside more accessible. These particular Haibikes are excellent in design and performance, and completely changed our lifestyle for the month.”
We’re so proud to have taken part in Robert’s epic adventure and were more than happy to support Rob and team in their efforts!
