Sinje Gottwald Makes History by Riding CAKE Kalk AP 13,000 km Across Africa Without Technical or Medical Support
Sinje Gottwald, CAKE B2B Account Manager, has made history by riding the longest distance ever on an electric motorcycle, completing a 124-day unassisted journey along the West Coast of Africa. The journey started in Spain and ended in South Africa, covering a distance of 13,000 km. Gottwald completed the journey on a CAKE Kalk AP, a bike designed for short bursts of fun riding, without experiencing a single flat tire, and requiring less than 140 charges.
Gottwald’s journey had practical and logistical challenges, such as crossing borders, applying for visas, and having the correct documentation with her at all times. The journey also allowed her to engage with the continent’s people and landscapes, showcasing Africa and highlighting the positivity of its blend of languages and cultures. Gottwald readied herself with two batteries, two chargers, spare parts, tools, a laptop, a camera, and personal belongings.
The journey took Gottwald through Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon, and Angola, which included a 24-hour wait at the border. The Kalk AP was effective, durable, and versatile, overcoming the array of vehicular challenges presented by charging, mechanical care, and spare parts. The bike required almost zero maintenance, with minor issues that could be fixed, and drew so much attention.
People would come and ask about it, many said it was the first time for them to see an electric motorcycle. The Kalk AP has highlighted a major step forward for the possibilities of vehicle electrification and the sustainable future, not just for personal transportation but also for the unique challenges presented by adventure riding.
Gottwald, a veteran of motorcycle adventures, came to wide attention within the motorcycling community in 2017 after she accomplished a solo circumnavigation of the world. Her accomplishment drew attention for breaking down barriers and normalizing the idea of independent female riders achieving such feats. Sinje’s other expeditions have included traveling overland from Europe to Asia, exploring Australia, traveling from South to North America overland, and from Morocco to Mali.
“One key factor of Sinje’s motivation for the trip, and one that she aspired to for the duration, was to showcase Africa and highlight the positivity of its blend of languages and cultures,” said Gottwald. “With this adventure I not only wanted to open up my own and people’s views and ideas about this continent but also give an example of what is possible even if the challenges seem too big at first. We are capable of a lot more than we think.”
Stefan Ytterborn, CEO, and founder of CAKE, was one of Gottwald’s biggest supporters throughout the buildup and duration of her adventure. The incredible achievement by Gottwald and the Kalk AP has laid down a significant milestone for electric transport. The Kalk AP’s performance in Africa has provided irrefutable evidence of the build quality and potential life cycles of CAKE products.
Source: CAKE