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I am Daniel Leshtanski from Bulgaria, a small country in Europe, located in the Balkan peninsula. From the time I was a little kid I loved to ride motorcycles, the reason is my father.  During my 32 years, I have visited approximately 27 countries, and am planning to visit more.  I hope you enjoy my photos from some of my travels. I recently completed and was certified for the Full Throttle challenge, and happy to say I am now a member of Long Distance Riders!

Passion Reignited

From the time I could remember, I was always obsessed with two wheels and the wind on my face. My first love? The iconic Yamaha RX 135, a machine that symbolized freedom and fuelled years of unforgettable memories, and the last in the legacy of two-stroke engines in India.

My first love: The Yamaha RX 135

Fast forward to 2012, I moved to the UAE, and though life got busy, the itch to ride never quite left me. After years of hesitation, I finally gave in and brought home the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. It wasn’t just a bike for me, it was a return to myself, and what better way to return to the arena than on a Royal Enfield, the emotion of all Indians. Even though at that time it was an impulsive decision without a clue on what I was gonna do with it, it all changed when I discovered the amazing biker culture in UAE. Pretty quickly I was integrated into the incredible biking brotherhood, and it completely changed the way I experienced life.

Royal Enfield: Where engine meets emotion

Enter King of the Road Challenge

Vivek Mehta of Biker Buddies Brotherhood had set up a Whatsapp group with over 750 bikers. This is a resource for bikers to exchange news, motivate each other and share stories of their endurance rides. I first learnt about certified endurance challenges from that group.

When Vivek Mehta and Chirag Rami, well known riders in the Biker Brotherhood, announced on the Whatsapp group about the revival of the King of the Road Challenge after years of hiatus, I knew I had to enrol into this endurance test that’s unlike any other.

At the initial pre-ride briefing, Vivek Mehta explained that the challenge had three stages:

Phase 1: 805 km in 12 hours

Phase 2: 1610 km in 24 hours

Phase 3: 2415 km in 36 hours

To be honest, I didn’t think I had it in me to complete all three stages. By this time I was regularly riding around 300 to 400 km on all weekends, and I assumed the first 805 km will be something I can realistically manage without breaking my back and butt.

We flagged off with a solid crew of 23 people, which included a mix of experienced and first-time endurance riders. Chirag Rami led the way with clarity and consistency, keeping the group focused and the ride well-paced. His foresight and timely course corrections helped us stay on track throughout. We were also fortunate to have Vivek Mehta as our mentor. His guidance, planning, and oversight ensured everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

Ready, set, go: The start of something unforgettable

Unlocking New Limits

What I didn’t expect was how much the ride would awaken something inside me.The conditions weren’t always ideal; we had to ride throughtwo heavy sandstorms, a prolonged traffic jam, fuel shortages in between gas stations, several mechanical faults and a minor accident, but nothing was going to stop us. The camaraderie, the road, the rhythm, it was contagious. After finishing the 805 km stretch, something in me said, “Why stop now?” I pushed on to Phase 2. And then… Phase 3. What began with hesitation ended in triumph. I became one of the 8 riders to complete the entire 2415 km in 36 hours. As a cherry on the cake, I realized later on that my bike was the First Super Meteor 650 in the world to complete the King of the Road challenge, who would have thought!

At the finishing line: The 8 Kings of the Roadwith the mentor (from left to right, Victor King, Mentor Vivek Mehta, Sanjith Soman, Captain Chirag Rami, Gregory Fuller, Sunil Kulkarni, Avinash Surve,Kunal Bhatia and Umar Akbar)

My Key Takeaway

This challenge wasn’t just about distance or endurance. It was about self-discovery. Somewhere between gas stops, fatigue, and sandstorms, I found the strength I didn’t know I had. I learnt that our limits are often self-imposed, and that you need to step out of your comfort zone to grow. If you have ever doubted yourself and your capacity to go further, to do more, just get on that saddle, and the road has a way of showing you what you are truly made of.

A Word of Thanks

To Mentor Vivek Mehta: Your experience, guidance, encouragement, and discipline made all the difference.

To Captain Chirag Rami: Thank you for bringing this unbelievable achievement to life and leading us with vision.

To my fellow riders: Thank you for inspiring me and reminding that this journey is never meant to be a solo one.

Ride far. Ride true. Until the next one, peace out.

Sanjith Soman

Member of Eagles Tribe MC, UAE

Completed BIKER BUDDIES Endurance ride – United Through Storm – King of the Road Challenge, 8^th– 9^thFeb 2025

After finding out about the Long distance endurance rides, I was planning it within our group to embark on this adventure.

However when I saw a post on Vivek Mehta’s Biker Buddies Brotherhood Whatsapp group regarding a long distance challenge, I was presented with the opportunity of doing it with a large number of bikers from different MC. It was a no brainer for me to be a part of this memorable journey.

Motorcycling has always been my escape. The roar of the engine, the wind rushing past, and the sense of complete freedom, there’s nothing quite like it. But it wasn’t until I embarked on my first long-distance Ride that I truly understood what it meant to connect with the road, with the world, and with fellow riders in a way that I never imagined possible.

It wasn’t just a ride; it was an adventure. A journey that stretched across landscapes, and down highways that seemed to go on forever. And what made this experience unforgettable weren’t just the miles I covered, or the destinations I reached, but the people who I was riding with. Fellow motorcyclists who, like me, were chasing freedom on two wheels, making the entire ride something much more profound.

What was great about this journey was to be able to witness the true bikers brotherhood spirit where everyone was constantly motivating, helping fellow bikers throughout the journey. On long journeys, things don’t always go as planned. Flat tires, mechanical issues, or a sudden change in weather can all throw a wrench into your ride. Having fellow motorcyclists to lean on, even if just for advice or moral support, can be invaluable. The memories made and stories shared at the break stops made it exciting and enjoyable.

I found that the spirit of motorcycling wasn’t just something I could feel in the moment, it was something that stayed with me long after the ride was over. The friendships, the camaraderie, and the shared experiences became a part of my story, and in some ways, they became the highlight of the trip.

There’s a kind of brotherhood among riders that’s hard to explain to anyone who hasn’t experienced it. But those of us who ride know it’s real. The bond between riders, whether formed at a gas station or in the middle of nowhere, is something special. It’s about trust, respect, and a shared love for the road and I was blessed to share it with friends who were a part of this journey.

As I sit back and think about the miles I’ve covered and the people I’ve met, I realize that this long-distance Ride wasn’t just a physical journey, it was a journey of connection. The road brought me closer to others, to myself, and to the very essence of what it means to be free.

This was my first time attempting such a challenge and honestly I was nervous in the beginning, but the encouragement, advice and tips shared on the pre-ride briefing by Mr. Vivek Mehta and brother Chirag Rami who have completed this ride multiple times before, made everyone well aware of the challenges both mental and physical during the journey and the planning required to complete the journey in the set time. So I thank both of you for your support and guidance and making it possible for us.

One thing that I would like to advise to anyone considering such rides is that these journeys are about understanding your potential and limits so always make informed decisions considering your safety.

“United We Ride”

Umar Akbar
Founder of United Riderz , UAE MC

It is with great pleasure that we appoint Victor King as the official Brand Ambassador for Certified Long Distance Rider (CLDR) for the Middle East, Africa, and India.

A seasoned rider with over 30 years and 500,000 miles on the road, Victor is the founder of World of Bikers and co-founder of Throttle Kings MC, Dubai, UAE. Beyond his passion for motorcycles, he is a dedicated father of two, a PR and communications entrepreneur, and an enthusiast of fine single malts and cigars.

Victor embodies resilience and empathy, values he holds close in both life and business. “I take pride in my ‘You Grow, I Grow’ philosophy—it’s deeply ingrained in everything I do,” he says.

A true advocate for the riding community, he believes “The best accessory for any motorcycle is the miles you put on it, and the brotherhood and sisterhood of riders make for the greatest extended family one could ask for.”

The Biker Buddies Eid Brotherhood Ride was held on 31 March 2025, to celebrate the religious festival of Eid. It is a symbol of unity, brotherhood, cultural exchange, and charity. This event drew about 300 bikers from 18 different MC. The bikers came from 26 different countries. This ride is now the biggest charity ride in the Middle East.

Please see the pre ride coverage at:

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/dubai-bikers-eid-brotherhood-ride

And post ride coverage:

https://gulfnews.com/uae/watch-300-uae-bikers-280km-dubai-kalba-eid-ride-dedicated-to-workers-1.500081019

Ride organizer, Vivek Mehta
Photos courtesy of Vivek Mehta

EMBARKING ON THE KING OF ROAD CHALLENGE ON JANUARY 27, 2025

I, Sajeev SJ, also known as MalluWanderers from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, set out to conquer a grueling 2,504.3-kilometer journey within 35 hours and 40 minutes. This adventure, starting from Walayar, Kerala, to Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), Maharashtra, and back, was a true test of endurance, planning, and passion for long-distance motorcycling.

PREPARATION AND PLANNING

Drawing inspiration from fellow riders’ experiences on platforms like Long Distance Riders, I meticulously planned my route, ensuring optimal rest stops and refuelling points. The insights from seasoned riders emphasized the importance of:

Physical and Mental Preparation: Engaging in regular exercise and mental conditioning to withstand prolonged hours on the road.

Route Familiarization: Studying the chosen path to anticipate challenges and plan for contingencies.

Safety Measures: Equipping oneself with appropriate gear and being prepared for varying weather conditions.

THE JOURNEY

FIRST LEG: WALAYAR TO AURANGABAD

Setting off at dawn, the initial phase was invigorating. The well-maintained highways allowed for a steady pace, and the cool morning breeze was refreshing. However, as the day progressed, I encountered stretches of roadwork and increased traffic, requiring heightened alertness and adaptability.

MIDWAY CHALLENGES

Fatigue became a formidable adversary. Despite scheduled breaks, the continuous ride began to take a toll. Recalling advice from the community, I ensured hydration and took short naps when necessary to maintain focus. Unexpected weather changes added to the complexity, but the camaraderie among fellow riders on similar quests provided motivation to persevere.

RETURN LEG: AURANGABAD TO WALAYAR

The journey back was the ultimate test. Night riding demanded enhanced caution, with reduced visibility and the need to be vigilant about nocturnal wildlife crossings. The KTM Adventure 390’s reliable performance was a boon, offering stability and comfort during these challenging hours.

REFLECTIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Completing the King of Road Challenge was a monumental achievement, made possible by:

Mr. Vepavi, (Member, Long Distance Riders) from the Motorcycle Tourers Association: His guidance on endurance riding and strategic planning was invaluable.

My Family: Their unwavering support and understanding fuelled my determination to undertake and complete this journey.

This experience reinforced the essence of long-distance motorcycling: it’s not merely about covering distances but embracing the journey, learning from each challenge, and cherishing the bonds formed along the way.

For those inspired to embark on similar adventures, I recommend exploring stories and tips from fellow riders on Long Distance Riders. Their narratives offer a wealth of knowledge and motivation for both novice and seasoned riders.

The road beckons, and with preparation, passion, and perseverance, any challenge can be transformed into a cherished memory.

Motorcycling has never been just a hobby for me—it’s a part of who I am. I’m Sheena Phillip, a 36-year-old mother of two, an accountant by profession, and a passionate biker for over a decade. With my trusted machines—the Jawa 42 Bobber and Dominar 400—I’ve embraced every adventure that has come my way.

But this time, I wanted to push my limits like never before. That’s when I came across the King of The Road certification by the Long Distance Riders (LDR) Community—a grueling challenge that required covering 2,415 km in 36 hours. It was ambitious, tough, and exactly the kind of test I was looking for. I knew I had to go for it. And the only reason I could take on and complete this challenge was my husband, Vijay’s, unwavering belief in me. His confidence in my abilities never wavered, even when I doubted myself. That belief became my strength, my motivation, and my reason to keep going.

Gearing Up

January was all about preparation. I mapped out my route carefully, trained my body and mind for the endurance ahead, and sought advice from experienced long-distance riders. One of them was Vijeesh alias Vepavi from Kerala, India a seasoned LDR rider who generously shared his insights and guided me in route selection. With my bike prepped, my strategy in place, and my determination stronger than ever, I was ready.

A key figure in my journey was Shankar Chandrasekaran, founder of Kovai Moto Tribe, the biking club in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India that I am proud to be part of. Shankar guided me through every aspect of planning and stood by me until I successfully completed the ride.

The Ride of a Lifetime

On February 11th at 11:08 PM, I set off from Coimbatore, on my Bajaj Dominar 400, heart pounding with excitement and anticipation. My route was mapped out meticulously:

Coimbatore → Salem → Bangalore → Vijayapura → Aurangabad → Bangalore → Salem

Every kilometer tested my endurance. I took 13 strategic fuel breaks, ensuring I maintained the right balance of speed and stamina. The first half was smooth—I reached Aurangabad feeling strong and confident. But I knew the real test lay in the return journey.

The Final Stretch

Fatigue started creeping in. The roads became unpredictable, traffic erratic, and the exhaustion undeniable. But I refused to let any of it break my spirit. I kept reminding myself why I started. I had trained for this. I was prepared for this.

On February 13^th, 2025 after 36 grueling hours on the road, I finally reached Salem—completing 2,446 km and officially qualifying for the King of The Road certification. Vepavi helped me with the documentation process, ensuring that every detail was in place.

A Milestone Worth Every Mile

This ride was more than just about the distance. It was about proving to myself that I could push beyond my limits. Today, I stand proud as the first woman rider from Tamil Nadu, India to achieve this feat.

The journey was tough. It tested my endurance, my patience, and my willpower. But in the process, I discovered something incredible—my own unbreakable spirit.

To every rider out there—dream big, challenge yourself, and never be afraid to go beyond what seems possible. Because that’s where true adventure begins.

It was the weekend of September 13, beginning with the dawn of Friday morning, and little did I realize it was Friday the 13th—a date synonymous with superstition and adventure. What started as a simple journey to attend a good friend’s promotion ceremony to Chief Warrant Officer III in the Texas Army National Guard on Saturday afternoon quickly evolved into a saga of epic proportions.

On my Steel Horse, 2012 Triumph Rocket III Roadster, determined to make the most of my journey, I embarked on the Easy Rider Long Distance ride, setting my sights on logging 20 foreign-named cities or towns in Texas. By the end of this leg, I had triumphantly ticked off 5 out of the 20 in a single ride. The sense of accomplishment was exhilarating, yet the adventure was far from over.

Sunday arrived, and with it, the promise of another thrilling ride. My second cousin and I set out to conquer the legendary “Three Twisted Sisters” in Texas Hill Country. The twists and turns of the road were no match for our determination and skill, and we rode with the ferocity and camaraderie that defines true Road Warriors.

Tales of the Road Warrior: The Castle Rock Chronicles

When my family and I resided in the rugged terrain of Castle Rock, Colorado, my duty as a Soldier at the Joint Forces Headquarters in Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas, called me south once a month. Little did I know the power that the road held over me until I embarked on this relentless odyssey, covering the vast expanse from Castle Rock to Austin in a span of 21 grueling hours across three epic quests.

Riding my 2001 Suzuki Intruder 800, a beast with the heart of a warrior yet limited to 100 miles before hitting reserve, I was ever prepared, carrying extra fuel like a true road soldier. Despite my preparation, the road tested my resolve, running me dry once and threatening a second time. This had never happened to me before, but these quests were unlike any other.

On one such quest, exhaustion gripped me so tightly that I found myself driving with eyes closed for fleeting, dangerous moments. Recognizing the peril, I pulled over at a truck stop, seeking refuge behind a dumpster. With my head and back resting on my pack, boots propped on my bars, and blade in hand, I claimed a few precious moments of sleep in the cold embrace of the night.

These journeys forged me into a true odyssey, a rider of the roads with tales etched in the annals of adventure. As a retired Chief Warrant Officer III from the Texas Army National Guard, my passion for riding has only grown stronger. With more time to pursue these epic quests, you’ll be hearing more from me—sharing the triumphs, trials, and tales of a life lived on the edge.

Among my conquests is the legendary SaddleSore 1000, a feat shadowed by the demands of deployment and the hustle of civilian life, preventing me from submitting my proof of triumph. Yet, my thirst for challenges remains unquenched. My passions lie in motorcycle adventures, graphic design, football, and collecting relics of my journeys.

My future quests are set on legendary paths: conquering the mythical “Tail of the Dragon,” and joining iconic rallies such as the Lone Star Rally, The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and Bikes Blues and BBQ in the year of my Lord 2025.

With every ride, I aim to create and immortalize the tales of my epic journeys, forging a legacy that resonates with the spirit of the riders. Ride on, brave souls, for the road beckons and our stories are far from over, for our adventures have only just begun.

Texas Coyote

Douglas Letz (retired)

2012 Triumph Rocket III Roadster

2001 Suzuki Intruder 800 (retired)

Blending Passions

For many enthusiasts, the joy of hitting the open road on a motorcycle and the thrill of sinking a perfect putt on the golf course are two separate but equally exhilarating experiences. But what if you could blend these passions into one seamless adventure? That’s exactly what I set out to do, and here’s how I combined my love for motorcycle riding with my passion for golf.

The challenge was straightforward but intriguing: how could I transport my golf clubs on my Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra? After all, the standard golf bag and clubs don’t exactly fit neatly into a motorcycle’s saddlebag!

I started my quest with a deep dive into online research, exploring various solutions for carrying golf gear on a motorcycle. Unfortunately, most of the options were either expensive or lacked the practicality I was seeking. Determined to find a more personalized and cost-effective solution, I turned to a local welder to take a look at a design that I created.

The end result was a sleek and functional golf rack that attaches directly to my motorcycle. The design allows for the easy removal of one saddlebag, which is secured by two bolts. With the saddlebag removed, the golf rack can be swiftly attached in its place, fitting snugly on the right side of the bike. It leans back from the floorboard to the rear of the motorcycle, providing a stable and secure setup for my clubs. To this I additionally attached two bungee cords for extra security.

Now, when the opportunity arises for a golf outing, I can hit the road with my motorcycle and, within minutes, have my golf bag securely fastened and ready for action. This custom setup not only combines my two favorite hobbies but also enhances my ability to enjoy both with ease and convenience.

Whether cruising down the highway or navigating the fairways, this golf rack ensures that I can indulge in both passions without compromise.

– Jack Powis

“A Lone Ride in UAE that turned into a tale of Solo Triumph”

As a dedicated motorcycle enthusiast with a passion for exploring the world on two wheels, my journey began long before the solitary ride that would become one of my greatest triumphs.

From navigating the bustling streets of India during my formative years in the 90’s to having embarked on countless adventures across the UAE and Europe since 2001, my love affair with motorcycles knows no bounds. I’ve explored highways and byways at every chance, seeking out new horizons while embracing the thrill and peace of the open road.

On January 27th, 2024, I set out on what would become my most ambitious solo ride yet: a 2,515-kilometer endurance journey across the width and heart of the United Arab Emirates.

My first LDR endurance ride was a group ride in 2022 with my friends from the Blu Oryx MC, where we managed the FULL THROTTLE 1650km in little above 22 hours. This was due to the encouragement and guidance of biker Vivek Mehta, LDR’s Ambassador to the Middle East.

Ever since that day, I was itching and looking forward to the next big ride: The KING OF THE ROAD. Suffering from a terrible back injury in early 2023, it took me several months to recover and to be able to ride even for a few minutes. Once a few months passed and I started my recovery, the desire to plan the bigger LDR KING OF THE ROAD was even more, but it was always at the back of my mind if it could be done by me in my state. Having discussed the ride several times with my biker brothers, somehow it never worked out. In mid – January, I made up my mind that I would set a date in the coming weeks and give it my all with my attempt – solo or group. The date was set – 26th to 27th January 2024!

Already facing a lot of self-doubt and lack of confidence in myself because of my medical condition, I also had a lot of dissuading conversations from the people who were aware of my present health condition. Some called me crazy, and I replied confirming that I am!

Finally the date arrived and I was nervous and still in a lot of self-doubt. My motorcycle had been sent for a checkup and still wasn’t with me until the evening. When the bike was finally ready, I realized that the electronics and my auxiliary lights had an issue and I had to rush back to an expert to get it working.

Somehow, I organized myself and the time to start was near. I started close to midnight on the 26th. As the hours passed and the kilometers ticked by, I encountered moments of doubt and fatigue. Yet, fueled by a relentless desire to push my limits, I pressed on, drawing strength from within and refusing to let obstacles deter me from my goal.

The route had been carefully planned, starting from Dubai crossing Abu Dhabi and to the western and southern tips of the UAE bordering Saudi Arabia using the Ghweifat International Highway and all the three roads from north to south of the UAE towards the Liwa area. By the time I was done with the above, I was approaching approximately 1650 km in about 15 hours well ahead of my time. I had to modify my route to the northern emirates considering the traffic at that time and instead rerouted towards Alain and Al Quaa. Once at Al Quaa, I had to relook at the traffic and thought my best bet was towards Hatta via Abu Dhabi which would help me complete my ride while avoiding traffic as much as possible.

For the first time in the 43 years I lived in the UAE, I traversed the length and breadth of the country, exploring and embracing the diverse landscapes that make the UAE so unique. Some of the roads I used were new to me, allowing me to appreciate the stunning landscape of the country in a whole new light.

Despite the physical toll of the journey and the persistent pain of a nagging back issue, I remained focused and determined. Along the way, I paused to take in the breathtaking scenery, from the rugged mountains of Hatta to the shimmering sands of Liwa.

What’s more, as the journey neared its conclusion, I achieved a remarkable feat: completing the 2,515-kilometer ride in just 24 hours. This accomplishment surpassed the expected time limit of 36 hours, cementing my place among the ranks of solo riders who dare to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

As I reflect on this solitary odyssey, I’m reminded of the power of determination, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of the lone rider. The 27th of January 2024 will forever hold a special place in my heart, serving as a testament to the thrill of adventure and the boundless potential of the open road. At this point I would like to thank a close friend who was constantly in touch with me, inquiring on how i was feeling and egging me on even though I was in a lot of pain from about half way through. Without the motivating and encouraging words, I don’t think I would have the courage, strength and confidence to complete this epic adventure.

With the completion of this epic journey, my mind is already turning to the next adventure that lies ahead. Armed with newfound confidence and a sense of accomplishment, I know that whatever challenges may come my way, I have the courage and determination to face them head-on, even if I have to tackle them alone.

Ali Mansur Boriawala

Member of Blu Oryx MC

Member of The Knights MC

Dubai UAE

#2710#