In February 2024, we embarked on the Xtreme-Tech Expedition, a 1,300-kilometer journey through Morocco’s Erg Chegaga, the country’s largest sandy desert. Our mission was to demonstrate that e-bikes equipped with thermoplastic carbon fiber-reinforced frames could withstand the harshest conditions.
Our team consisted of three riders: Mike Fuchs, an experienced photographer and expedition manager; Oliver Gehrking, a versatile athlete skilled in cyclocross, mountain biking, and road racing; and David Arlandis, adept in road biking, mountain biking, and gravel biking. Together, we set out to test the limits of our equipment and ourselves.
We rode high-quality Buddy X1 e-bikes, developed in partnership between Buddy Bike from Norway and ISOCO/V Frames from Germany. These bikes featured frames made from thermoplastic carbon fiber materials supplied by LEHVOSS, known for their durability and sustainability.
Throughout the expedition, we faced extreme temperature fluctuations, intense sunlight, and strong winds. The fine desert sand tested the resilience of our bikes’ components, while UV radiation accelerated material aging. Despite these challenges, our e-bikes performed exceptionally well, proving that thermoplastic frames can endure demanding environments.
Our journey took us through deep mountain gorges, dried-up riverbeds, and high mountain passes once traversed by ancient trade routes. We encountered Noor, one of the world’s largest solar power plants, which provided an opportunity to recharge our e-bike batteries using clean energy.
After eleven challenging but rewarding days, we successfully completed our journey, arriving at our destination with our bikes and equipment in excellent condition. The Xtreme-Tech Expedition not only showcased the durability of thermoplastic materials but also highlighted the potential for sustainable practices in extreme environments.
Reflecting on our adventure, we are proud of our achievements and the performance of our e-bikes. This expedition has proven that with the right materials and determination, it’s possible to undertake demanding journeys while adhering to principles of sustainability.
