Watch Inspired to Ride

In 2015, Inspired to Ride was released, a documentary film that follows the journey of more than 40 cyclists who race from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean in a grueling 4,233 mile course. The film is directed by Mike Dion, and it features a cast of notable cyclists such as Mike Hall, Juliana Buhring, and Jason Lane. The movie is about the Trans Am Bike Race, which is a self-supported bicycle race that runs from Astoria, Oregon to Yorktown, Virginia. The race course follows the TransAmerica Trail and sees competitors face steep climbs, harsh weather, and long stretches of deserted roads. The cyclists ride unsupported, which means they bring all their equipment, clothing, and food with them, and they are not allowed to receive support or assistance from anyone other than local businesses along the route.

The documentary captures the essence of the race, showing the extreme and challenging conditions that the cyclists face. The film provides an in-depth look at what drives these athletes to push themselves to their physical and mental limits. It highlights the grueling and dangerous nature of the race as the cyclists traverse through mountains, plains, and deserts.

The movie does not only showcase the physical strength of the riders, but also their emotional and psychological perseverance in the face of adversity. It delves into the motivations behind each racer, exploring their personal stories, and their drive to cross the finish line. The film tells the story of the competition but also explores themes of endurance, perseverance, and the human spirit.

The documentary's main focus is on three racers - Mike Hall, Juliana Buhring, and Jason Lane. Mike Hall, a British cyclist, is the reigning champion of the Trans Am Bike Race. With a shaved head and a fierce determination, Hall is portrayed as one of the frontrunners in the race, determined to defend his title.

Juliana Buhring, an Australian writer and cyclist, is the only woman competing in the race. She rides a pink bike and wears a tutu, using humor to lighten up the grueling nature of the competition. Buhring is shown to have a fiery personality, with a desire to use the race as a platform to bring attention to mental health issues.

Jason Lane is a first-timer in the race, with a background in triathlons. He joins the race after facing a tragedy in his personal life, and he wants to prove to himself that he can overcome anything. Lane's struggles during the race are highlighted, as he deals with injuries and exhaustion.

The film's cinematography is stunning, showcasing the beauty of the American landscape, and the brutal nature of the race. The documentary captures the riders at their best and their worst, and the film's pacing is excellent, creating a sense of urgency and excitement that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

In conclusion, Inspired to Ride is a fantastic documentary that tells the story of the Trans Am Bike Race through the eyes of its participants. Through stunning cinematography and compelling storytelling, it captures the intense physical and emotional challenges that the riders endure. The documentary is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in endurance sports, human resilience, and the powerful drive that motivates athletes to push beyond their limits.

Inspired to Ride is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.