Steven Barnett's Record-Breaking Motorcycle Journey

At 77 years old, Steven Barnett, a retired professor originally from Los Angeles, is set to embark on a remarkable adventure: an attempt to become the oldest man to motorcycle around the world. Scheduled to begin his journey on March 7, 2026, from Madrid, Spain, Barnett plans to traverse 27 countries, covering approximately 50,000 miles over the course of at least a year. His route includes destinations such as France, Australia, and Peru.

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Barnett's motivation for this journey stems from a heart attack he experienced last year, which required stents. This health scare prompted him to seize the moment, as he reflects, “You never know how long you have.” His inspiration also came from Bridget McCutchen, a young motorcyclist who aimed to become the youngest woman to circumnavigate the globe. After meeting her in Panama in December 2022, Barnett decided to pursue his own record, discovering that no one held the title for the oldest man.

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To prepare, Barnett purchased a new Suzuki DR650 motorcycle and modified it for long-distance travel. He must adhere to Guinness World Records requirements, which stipulate that he ride the same motorcycle throughout the journey, documenting his progress along the way.

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Barnett's journey will take him through various regions, including Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. He plans to ride through countries such as Italy, Greece, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Malaysia, before flying to Australia and eventually returning to Panama via South America. While he feels physically fit for the trip, Barnett acknowledges that his age necessitates a more cautious approach compared to his younger years. He stated, “I’ll be much more careful about that this time around … Because I can’t lift up the bike the same way I did when I was 50.”

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Barnett emphasizes that the people he meets during his travels significantly shape his experiences. He recalls past encounters, such as befriending a fellow motorcyclist in Brazil and sharing meals with locals in Laos. He describes the journey as a “roller coaster,” filled with both exhilarating moments and challenges. Barnett plans to travel light, bringing along his stuffed raccoon, Rocky, and a mandolin to connect with others through music.

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Barnett has been actively sharing his journey on social media, receiving encouragement from many who find his endeavor inspiring. His wife, Karen, has been supportive throughout this process, as has McCutchen, who continues to offer advice. Barnett believes that his story can motivate both young and old to pursue their dreams, stating, “I think that she can be an example that I pass on to others — young and old — to just go for it.”

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As Steven Barnett prepares for his record-setting motorcycle journey, he embodies the spirit of adventure and resilience. His story serves as a reminder that age should not limit one's aspirations, and that the pursuit of dreams can lead to meaningful connections and experiences.

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