A Global Cycling Odyssey: Tom Williamson's Post-Heart Condition Adventure on a Wooden Bike
Tom Williamson, a determined cyclist, is about to embark on an extraordinary 1 to 2-year bicycle journey around the world. This ambitious endeavor comes merely months after he underwent a heart procedure. His choice of ride, a striking wooden bicycle crafted by Zafi, is not just a mode of transport but a conversation starter, designed to draw attention to his inspiring mission and raise awareness for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY). Williamson's journey is a testament to human resilience and the power of pursuing dreams, even in the face of significant health challenges.
Tom Williamson's Global Cycling Adventure: A Triumph of Spirit and Sustainable Design
In May 2026, Tom Williamson, a 32-year-old from Surbiton, Surrey, is setting off on an epic round-the-world cycling trip. This adventure is particularly remarkable as it follows a successful heart ablation procedure in June 2025 for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a condition that took years to diagnose. Williamson's initial love for cycling blossomed during a summer in Italy in 2019, but a harrowing incident during a Land's End to John O'Groats trip, where he experienced heart issues and passed out, put his cycling dreams on hold. After a two-year period of uncertainty and three procedures, a successful ablation has now empowered him to pursue his global ambition, aiming to raise funds for 'Cardiac Risk in the Young' (CRY).
His journey will begin in France, then take him through Belgium to visit Zafi, the creator of his unique wooden bike. He'll continue through Germany, the Czech Republic (to Posedla for a custom saddle), Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria, eventually reaching Turkey. From there, he plans to fly to the 'Stans' (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan), before heading into China, then through Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, where he might pause for volunteering. The route continues through Malaysia and Singapore, then across Indonesia to Perth, Australia. His primary goal is to cycle from Perth to Sydney, with potential extensions to New Zealand and even the USA if time and budget permit. The entire solo expedition is anticipated to last between one and two years, with flexibility built into the itinerary. For accommodation, Williamson plans to utilize 'warmshowers.org' for free hosting, supplemented by hostels, basic hotels, and his one-man tent, balancing comfort with cost-effectiveness.
Central to this extraordinary journey is his bespoke wooden bicycle from Zafi, a Belgian company. Williamson specifically chose a wooden frame for its distinctiveness, hoping it would initiate conversations and unique experiences. He also emphasized the bike's sustainability, as its frame materials are locally sourced within Belgium, supporting European manufacturing. While striving for European-manufactured components, approximately 90% of the bike's parts are indeed European, excluding the Shimano derailleur, shifters, brakes, and an American bottom bracket. Key features include a carbon gravel fork from Sample Maker (France) with dynamo routing, a custom 3D-printed Posedla saddle, and robust Dandy Horse (Poland) carbon gravel wheels designed for expedition use, featuring a DT Swiss dynamo hub. The cockpit, including a VYBE suspension stem and seatpost, is from USE, and lights are provided by Exposure. The drivetrain, a 38T chainring with 165mm cranks matched to an 11–46T cassette, comes from Garbaruk Components (Ukraine/Poland), chosen for its climbing range and reliability. For carrying gear, Williamson relies on a comprehensive Tailfin bikepacking setup, ensuring ample storage for his long-haul journey.
Tom Williamson's upcoming journey is a powerful demonstration of how personal adversity can be transformed into a catalyst for extraordinary achievement and social good. His dedication to raising awareness for Cardiac Risk in the Young, coupled with his innovative approach to bikepacking on a sustainable wooden bicycle, offers an inspiring narrative for all. It challenges us to consider our own limits and how we might push past them, not just for personal fulfillment but also for the benefit of others. His decision to leave a comfortable life for the unknown, driven by a profound sense of purpose, resonates deeply, reminding us that true adventure often lies just beyond our comfort zone, waiting to be embraced with an open heart and a strong spirit.