ABU DHABI // Attempting a round-the-world cycling tour requires a significant amount of planning and specific equipment, particularly when taking 21st century demands into account.

As Turkish adventurer Gurkan Genc attempts to complete his multi-year cycling tour, his route will take him across many types of terrain with varying climates.

He is using a hybrid mountain/touring bicycle made by Kron - a Turkish company. Its design allows him to tackle a variety of road surfaces.

“Sometimes I’m cycling on asphalt, but in most of the countries in Africa and the Middle East, I like cycling on dirt roads,” he said. “It’s better, no motorway, no cars, just me.”

To prevent his drinking water from freezing while riding in cold temperatures, and also from becoming unpleasantly hot in climates such as in the UAE, he uses thermal bottles, carrying as much as five litres at a time, attached to the frame of his bike.

Custom-made racks on the side of the bike allow him to haul 60kg of gear.

A specialised hub on the bike’s wheel produces a steady stream of energy as he rides, keeping his mobile phone, GPS, GoPro camera, satellite phone, iPod, camera and computer charged at all times - even allowing him to store excess power.

esamoglou@thenational.ae