Two hearts, one bike

Nearly four years ago, Justin (59) and Sharon (51) Scholz began their journey around the world – not impulsively, but after years of preparation.

About 13 years ago, they asked: “Do you think we could cycle around the world?” That question slowly began to shape the direction of their lives.

They are currently in Namibia and heading toward Luanda in Angola. From there, they will travel through the Republic of the Congo, Gabon and Cameroon. Later this year, they are set to fly to Scandinavia and continue cycling through Europe. If circumstances allow, they plan to reconnect with Cairo via Turkey and the Middle East.

The duo’s preparation started small: a three-day tour in 2008, followed by seven international rides ranging between 1 200 km and 2 500 km.

In 2021, they cycled 16 500 km around Australia. After that exhausting experience, they realised a world tour would require better balance. When they finally set off, they set a maximum timeframe of ten years.

Justin mapped out a global route covering nearly every continent except Antarctica – about 200 000 km in total. They aim to cycle roughly 3 000 km over six weeks, followed by four weeks of recovery. During rest periods, they run and hike more, do strength training and recover physically and mentally.

Touchstone landmarks

So far, the Scholz's have visited 45 countries. In Africa, they visited well-known landmarks, including the pyramids of Giza, Victoria Falls and Table Mountain, among others.

In Sudan, they cycled 500 km through the Sahara in three days and slept in mud huts.

In South America, they battled the winds of Patagonia, visited Machu Picchu and Bolivia’s salt flats, and slept above 4 500 metres. In North America, they pedalled through the Rocky Mountains and followed historic Route 66 to Las Vegas. They have also cycled through Europe three times, crossing the Pyrenees and the Alps.

Despite these iconic places, Justin says their best memories are linked to the people they have met.

Before entering Morocco, they even considered hiding money due to safety fears. Instead, they experienced overwhelming hospitality. According to Justin, the world is far safer and friendlier than most are raised to believe.

Dream team

Each day begins with nearly 200 kg of total weight on their tandem bicycle. Their responsibilities are clearly demarcated: Justin handles mechanics, route planning and visas; Sharon manages food, health and luggage.

The couple also dream of visiting India, China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia, as well as Norway’s North Cape, Iceland and Taiwan.

Since 2005, Justin has kept a daily journal, which he shares on Facebook. They fund and plan everything themselves and are not trying to gain followers.

Their advice? “There is never a better time than now. But start small. Be humble and grateful – and remember every person has a story.”

— [email protected]