On October 5, 2025, I took on the King’s Trust Palace to Palace Ultra Ride — a 90-mile (145 km) challenge from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle.

This wasn’t just another cycling event — it was a test of endurance, a journey through history, and a ride with a purpose that goes far beyond the finish line.

By the end, I had cycled 145.15 km, climbed 1,681 m, and burned 5,481 calories in 6 hours 16 minutes of moving time, averaging 23.1 km/h and 137 W of power.

Those numbers aren’t just stats — they represent every push against the wind, every climb that burned, and every reason I ride.

Why I Chose the Ultra Route

The Ultra 90-mile route is the hardest option in the King’s Trust event — and that’s exactly why I chose it.

The challenge begins in the heart of London at The Mall, passes iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, flows through Surrey’s rolling hills, and ends in royal grandeur at Windsor Castle.

Riding through these historic places made me realize how beautifully the event combines physical endurance, royal heritage, and community spirit. It’s not just a marathon on wheels — it’s a moving tribute to perseverance.

The King’s Trust: Riding for a Cause

The King’s Trust Palace to Palace is the charity’s flagship cycling and walking event, raising vital funds to help young people across the UK overcome adversity.

With over £6 million raised so far, it continues to support programs that teach life skills, boost confidence, and open doors to education and employment.

Each mile on this ride helps build someone’s future — and that’s the true power behind this event.

For me, knowing that my personal challenge contributes to a much larger mission made every climb feel lighter and every mile more meaningful.

Cycling: A Lifestyle of Health and Strength

Cycling isn’t just exercise — it’s a way to balance your body, mind, and purpose.

The Palace to Palace Ultra reminded me why I love it:

Endurance over ego: It’s not about speed — it’s about lasting power.
Mental focus: The road teaches patience and rhythm.
Scenery as therapy: Surrey’s forests, fields, and open skies recharge the mind.
Community connection: The shared effort among riders turns exhaustion into energy.

If you’re looking for a healthier lifestyle, cycling is one of the best ways to get there.

Every ride, no matter how short, builds the foundation for long-term fitness and resilience.

History Meets Motion

What makes this event so special is the blend of history and sport.

From Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle, the route feels like riding through time — past monuments, green avenues, and royal parks.

The final stretch down The Long Walk into Windsor is breathtaking. Normally reserved for pedestrians, it opens once a year for cyclists — a powerful symbol of achievement and unity.

In that moment, with the castle ahead and the crowd cheering, you don’t just finish a ride — you finish a story.

My Ride Highlights

This year’s Ultra gave me several personal records — from the “Final Sprint” segment near Windsor to tough climbs like Effingham Hill.

Each personal best is a reminder that progress doesn’t come from shortcuts; it comes from consistency, preparation, and a passion to improve.

Lessons from the Saddle

Train progressively — Build distance and elevation gradually.
Fuel wisely — Learn what nutrition your body needs for endurance rides.
Bike setup is key — Comfort and proper fit make all the difference.
Stay consistent — Every small ride builds toward the big one.
Ride for meaning — A purpose-driven ride gives you limitless energy.

How Custom Bikes Service Supports Cyclists

At Custom Bikes Service, we don’t just highlight great cycling events like the King’s Trust Palace to Palace —

we help riders prepare for them.

Our team provides expert bicycle repairs, performance tuning, and full pre-event checks to ensure your bike can handle every climb and descent.

Whether you’re training for a 45-mile route or pushing through a 145 km ultra, we help you get the most out of your machine.

We believe that every challenge deserves a perfectly prepared bike.

That’s why we work closely with cyclists before major rides — inspecting drivetrains, optimizing brakes and gears, and adjusting ergonomics for long-distance comfort.

Supporting events like Palace to Palace isn’t just about awareness — it’s about action.

We’re proud to stand behind the riders who push boundaries for health, history, and hope.

Why I’ll Ride Again

Crossing the finish line at Windsor Castle was unforgettable — but the journey doesn’t end there.

Next year, I plan to ride again, stronger and better prepared, and continue supporting this incredible cause.

Cycling keeps you fit, clears your mind, and connects you to something bigger — and that’s a feeling worth chasing again and again.

Custom Bikes Service — Built for the Challenge

At Custom Bikes Service, we’re passionate about cycling performance, safety, and preparation.

From bike repair and maintenance in London to custom setups for endurance events, we help every rider — beginner or pro — reach their goals with confidence.

Whether you’re riding for charity, history, or personal growth, let’s make sure your bike is ready for the road ahead.