When Somnath Banerjee set out on his first major cycling expedition from Kolkata to Dhaka, he did it in a humble commuter bicycle. Hailing from North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, Somnath undertook this challenge to attend the International Mother Language Day ceremony in Dhaka on February 21, 2020. That 500 km ride, which he completed in seven grueling days, was later officially recognized on July 16, 2021, and earned him a place in the India Book of Records. “Cycling doesn’t add days to my life,” he says, “I do it to add life to my days.” That philosophy has since guided him across thousands of kilometers, where each turn of the pedal deepens his connection to the world around him.
Today, Somnath rides the Unirox Fin Racer 700c—a European-designed hybrid trekking bike tailored for endurance, efficiency, and exploration. Its ultra-lightweight ALLOY lady frame with touring geometry and concealed wiring makes it a joy to ride, even with full gear on extended routes. The ZOOM Masera Suspension Fork with Lockout allows for seamless adaptation to any terrain, from bustling city streets to remote village trails.
With a 24-speed Shimano Altus groupset and Shimano 8-speed freewheel, Somnath easily conquers varying elevations with superb control over the speed, while the hydraulic disc brakes give him the confidence to take on rain-slick roads or winding descents. Whether he’s cruising through urban sprawl or weaving through rural landscapes, his Fin Racer delivers on every front he will face.
For his Thailand ride, Somnath customized his bike with a waterproof gear bag and cycling essentials sourced from Decathlon. Every modification was made with purpose, turning his cycle into a reliable partner ready for the long haul which showed how far he can come.
His rides haven’t been without setbacks, he faced flat tires, sudden downpours, aggressive street dogs which chased him – but every challenge has been a lesson. Through it all, he has learned the value of minimalism, the peace of solitude, and the reward of self-reliance. Each sunrise met after a tough night of riding becomes more than just a view, it becomes a moment of triumph.
Somnath’s story is about more than just physical endurance. It’s a celebration of passion, resilience, and the quiet determination to chase something meaningful, powered by two wheels and the will to go on. His journey is a shining example of how adventure, when paired with the right cycle, becomes transformation.
At Unirox, we salute Somnath Banerjee and the growing family of cyclists who view the world not through a car window, but from the saddle of a bike. The Fin Racer 700c will always be by your side.
You can follow Somnath Banerjee in BikQuest Adventure
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