Thierry Sarasyn visits 15 countries in 22 hours on Bridgestone Battlax T32 tyres

Belgian motorcyclist Thierry Sarasyn rode through 15 countries in 22 hours on the Bridgestone Battlax T32 (Photo: Bridgestone)

The Belgian motorcyclist Thierry Sarasyn set a new touring world record when he visited 15 countries in just 22 hours, surpassing his own milestone of 13 countries in a day. Sarasyn finished his route in the Netherlands at 19:59 on 23 May, just under 22 hours after starting in Poland. The rider achieved this feat on a pair of Bridgestone Battlax T32 tyres, the manufacturer’s next-generation sport touring motorcycle tyre. It is the third biking world record in three years in which the Battlax T32 has been used, all three achieved by different riders on different bikes, following different routes.

Setting a world record is a unique feat that requires exceptional preparation. Sarasyn underwent a specific training regimen and followed a personalised nutrition plan to ensure he would be in optimal mental and physical condition while riding. He also took breaks every two hours to rest and refuel his vehicle. During his venture, Sarasyn was followed by a support vehicle with personnel ready to intervene in an emergency, and his route was constantly monitored in real time through a satellite tracking system. This tracking system also certified that the speed limits in each of the 15 countries visited were not broken during the attempt. Bridgestone says the Battlax T32 was also instrumental in keeping Sarasyn safe, helping the rider tackle poor weather conditions along the way.

“With the experience I gained on my previous ride, I saw an opportunity to break my own record – with a ride through 15 countries, registered by an official tracking system, which respects traffic rules and includes enough rest along the way,” said Sarasyn. “I was excited to partner up with Bridgestone again this year. The T32 is a very versatile tyre with excellent wet performance; despite facing difficult weather conditions, I never had problems with grip on the wet roads.”

Battlax T32 performance

Bridgestone’s next-generation sport touring tyres, the T32 and T32GT significantly enhance the tyre’s connection with the road over the T31, according to Bridgestone. This boosts its performance even in poor conditions.

“On behalf of all of us at Bridgestone, I would like to congratulate Thierry for his incredible achievement, improving the already impressive record set just one year ago,” said Nico Thuy, Bridgestone EMIA head of motorcycle. “The Bridgestone Battlax T32 aims to give riders control, confidence and safety in every condition. With this new world record, it is safe to say that we were really able to deliver the ultimate touring tyre for all riders and motorbike enthusiasts.”

(Photo: Bridgestone)