Man to attempt World Record on Route 66 in June 2025

Photo courtesy of Joe Barr.

An ultra-endurance cyclist will be attempting to set a World Record for cycling Route 66 end-to-end this coming June. Joe Barr plans to start his journey in Santa Monica, California on June 8th and wrap up on his 66th birthday, June 13th, in Chicago.

Barr is an award-winning cyclist from Ireland that already has several records to his name. He set the first Guinness World Record on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, racing over 1,600 miles with 81,000 ft of climbing in 127 hours. He’s represented his home country at multiple World Championships and won his age category at Race Across America in 2019.

According to Barr, it only took a glance at the iconic Route 66 shield as he drove across Oklahoma for the pedals in his mind to turn. A documentary team will follow Joe’s trek across the country for this Guinness World Record attempt, staying with him night and day along the road, at iconic sites, and with people who make Route 66 such a special place. In order to his his goal, Barr will need to cycle at least 315 miles per day.

During the ride, he cannot be assisted by escorts or road closures. Local cyclists will be welcome to ride along in each community, provided they stay behind him to avoid interference. More information about the specific days that Joe Barr will be in Oklahoma will be shared as the dates firm up in May.

Other documentaries about Joe’s notable rides and training are available at his website. More information about his Route 66 ride, including a contest to win the custom-built bicycle he will be riding, is outlined here.