Freedom rider is an adventure in extreme endurance sport, as well as an inquiry into the unique story of our fascinating country. When journalist Kevin Davie started riding his mountain bike in remote, wide-open South African spaces he found himself on a 10 000 km journey that tested his courage and determination through blizzards, lightning and hail storms as well as forty degree heat, forging new trails through rocky and mountainous terrain. On his journey, Kevin completed the Freedom Challenge, the Spine (the Drakensberg from end to end), the Ride to Rhodes and the Ganna (Beitbridge to Cape Town). This is riding minimalism, the rider carrying all his requirements without any back-up vehicle. Two of the longest rides, 5 000 kms in all, are ridden solo. This is his story – why athletes push themselves to rise to the challenge of extreme sport – as well as an account of the country and the incredible warmth and support from locals who reach out to help in so many ways.