Frequently Asked Questions

How did competitors get to the North Pole?

Participants arranged round trip flights from their homeland to Spitsbergen (Norway). From there, they were flown onward to the North Pole.

Where did participants stay at the departure point?

North Pole Bike Extreme participants stayed at a hotel arranged by the organisers of the race.

By what means were expedition members transported to and from the North Pole?

An Antonov plane flew contestants to a Russian North Pole Camp situated between 89N and 90N, drifting in the high Arctic Ocean. The Antonov returned to collect them approximately 36-48 hours later. 

Is there any land at the North Pole?

No. The North Pole is not situated on land, but on the Arctic Ocean. Participants were therefore cycling 'on' water…frozen water! They cycled on an ice sheet some 6 - 12 feet thick above 12,000 feet of Arctic Ocean on the top of the world.

What date did the race take place?

The North Pole Bike Extreme race took place on 7th April 2007. Competitors left the departure point (Spitsbergen, Norway) on 6th April and returned on 8th April, therefore spending about 36-48 hours in the polar region.  

Where exactly did the race take place?

The race was operated from a drifting North Pole camp, which floats about the North Pole between 89N and 90N. There was a two-mile out and back course.

Was it safe to cycle at the Pole?

The race was a contained one in that it was operated on a relatively short out-and-back course carved into the ice. Flags guided cyclists around the course and participants were visible at all times. Moreover, there was not a discernibly greater risk from the activity of cycling vis-a-vis doing any other activities at the Pole or being in the general location.

Was there a threat from polar bears?

No. It would be highly unusual for a polar bear to travel that far north, though the camp operators keep weapons for such an eventuality!

Did participants get to stand at the exact Geographic North Pole?

Yes. Although foating on ice in the immediate polar area for the race, participants were flown by Mi-8 chopper to the exact Geographic North Pole (90N) after the event.

What was the weather like at the Pole?

The race took place in brilliant sunshine in -26C temperatures.

What was the terrain like at the Pole?

The general terrain at the Pole is uneven and dotted with small hillocks of ice. The race circuit comprised a flat hard ice area with a light covering of snow on top.

What type of bicycle was used when cycling?

All participants were given a Crescent NPBE bike.

What were the technical specifications of the Crescent North Pole bike? 

• Model Name: Crescent MTB 047
• Colour: Orange / Silver
• Frame: Aluminium, cold forged / CNC open head tube
• Fork: Suspension, RockShox Tora 302 CL
• Front Derailer: Shimano Deore
• Rear Derailer: Shimano Deore XT
• Shifters: Shimano Deore LX
• Tyre: Studded, Kenda 26X2,10
• Hub, Rim, Spoke: Shimano 26"
• Brakes: V-brake Spectra
• Saddle: Spectra Edge
• Seat Post: Aluminium, black 27, 2X350
• Grip: Velo black
• Handlebars: Aluminium 580mm black, oversize. Bar end
• Handlebar Stern: Aluminium black, oversize
• Front Chain Wheel: Shimano 44x32x33, aluminium/steel, 170mm
• Chain: KMC X9 108L silver
• Cassette Sprocket: Shimano 11-34
• Pedals: Double, standard/spd

What clothes did people wear when cycling?

On the body, a layering system of clothing proved best (no cotton), incorporating the following:

• Upper body – thermal layer, fleece layer and outer windproof shell
• Legs – one thin and one thick thermal layer and windproof pants
• Hands – double gloves
• Feet – two pairs of woollen socks and suitable cold weather boots
• Head – balaclava, facemask, hat, neck gaiter, goggles

Were medical personnel present?

Yes. A medical doctor was present for the event.