When Chris Love was selected to represent The Information Lab in the annual “Ride to REACH,” he knew he was stepping into something much larger than a cycling trip. As a long-term partner of REACH Siem Reap, The Information Lab has supported our mission for years, and Chris was the third colleague to take on the challenge of riding across Cambodia to help children and families break the cycle of poverty.
For Chris, this wasn’t just a physical test, it was a journey of firsts. Having never traveled outside of Europe or the US, the prospect of cycling 650km from the coast to Siem Reap in 30-degree heat was as daunting as it was exciting.
Chris love after completing 100km a day!
The Power of the Pedal-Assist
One of the most inspiring parts of Chris’s story is his honesty about the physical demands of the ride. Dealing with persistent knee problems in the months leading up to the event, Chris made a decision to chose an E-Bike for pedal assist.
This choice transformed his experience. Instead of spending eight days worried about his injury or struggling on the road, the E-Bike provided the security he needed to stay at the front of the pack. It allowed him to keep his head up, chat with the REACH staff, and soak in the Cambodian landscape.
Enjoy the view of the countryside in Cambodia
As Chris notes, 650km in 8 days is a monumental feat regardless of the motor, but the E-Bike ensured that the journey remained a “pleasure rather than a chore,” allowing him to focus on the mission at hand, raising awareness and funds for the community.
In His Own Words: Reflections from the Road
Chris’s journey was defined by the people he met, from the farmers in the paddy fields to the dedicated Outreach team at REACH who work daily in the slums. He saw firsthand how “Rice Rewards” keep children in school and how the REACH school provides a beacon of hope for a generation hungry for learning.
“We weren’t a bunch of Westerners riding to help those less fortunate than us. Instead, we became a team, riding together, struggling together and bonding. I dare say we became friends.”
Warming up before starting the journey!
Click here to read the full story of Chris’s blog
Why This Ride Matters
Chris set out with a goal to “raise a shedload of money,” and thanks to his incredible network and the support of The Information Lab, he raised over £7,000. His story proves that whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a first-timer using an E-Bike, the impact you can make on the lives of vulnerable kids and families in Siem Reap is life-changing.
2027 Charity Bike Ride Options
Are you ready to find your own “Real Cambodia”? We have two iconic routes available for 2027, each offering a unique way to experience the Kingdom of Wonder while supporting our cause.
The Coast to Angkor – 650km In 8 Days
Dates: 4th – 14th January, 2027
This is our tried and tested long-distance flagship challenge. This incredibly rewarding 650km journey takes you from the beautiful coastal town of Kep all the way to our centre in Siem Reap. Over 8 days of cycling (with one well-earned rest day in the middle), you’ll push your limits and see the very best of the Cambodian countryside.
The Mekong Ride – 400km In 5 Days
Dates: 18th – 24th January, 2027
Perfect if you are shorter on time or looking for a slightly less intense experience. This newer 400km route follows the stunning banks of the mighty Mekong River over 5 days of cycling. You will pedal through vibrant riverside villages, cross iconic bamboo bridges, and witness the daily rhythms of rural life in areas largely untouched by tourism.
As Chris’s story shows, the use of E-Bikes is welcomed on both rides, making these challenges accessible to anyone with a heart for adventure and a desire to help.
Early Bird Discount
Ripple Effect Rides are currently offering a 5% early bird discount for the first 10 people who commit to the 2027 challenge. This special offer is available until the end of March.
Click here to learn more about our Coast to Angkor Challenge.
Click here to learn more about our Mekong Challenge.
Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime. Ride with us, alongside Cambodian families, in their fight against poverty.