Ultimate Sports Engineering

SouthDowns Double - Singlespeed Record

Congratulations to Neil Newell who has completed the Southdowns Double on Singlespeed in a staggering 23h 20m 32s!


Neil was supported by Rory of USE / Exposure Lights who originally sowed the seed into Neil's head for a singlespeed attempt.

Neil was equipped for the night riding hours with a Joystick MaXx which he said helped him to continue riding at speed throughout the night, and spot any wildlife who may hamper his record attempt.

The ride was completed Alpine style - meaning that Neil was equipped with everything he might need during his epic ride, except from water.


Click here to read a full write up of Neil's awesome ride

Click here to read the story in Neil's own words
 

The South Downs Double

 

What is it? The SDD is a 202 mile ride that starts in Winchester and follows the South Downs Way trail to its end in Eastbourne, turns around and finishes back at Winchester.

 

Who has ridden it? Several riders so far. Ian Butler kicked it all off in 2005 as the first recorded rider to complete the epic ride under 24 hours.

 

His time doesn't last long though, as Mike Cotty wades in and sets an impressive time of 22h 25m 22s in 2006.

 

Ian Butler has another attempt in 2007, but a succession of punctures and an errant badger put paid to his efforts.

 

In the same year Neil Newell completes the ride in 22h 20m 25s, and was the first to carry a live GPS tracker.

 

Then, in May 2008, Rob Lee not only smashed the previous fastest time with 20h 55m 51s, but pioneered the 'Alpine style', riding completely unsupported.