Speed with Guy Martin

A motorcycle racer who also works as a lorry mechanic is attempting to break the British outright speed record for a bicycle. By employing slipstreaming, he hopes to push the two‑wheeled machine to 110 mph, establishing a new national benchmark for cycling velocity.

Britain's Fastest Cyclist is a television programme presented as an episode that follows a unique challenge. The show falls within the genre of a single‑episode documentary style, focusing on a specific sporting endeavour. It centres on a single individual's quest, offering viewers insight into an ambitious speed attempt on a bicycle. The central figure is both a motorcycle racer and a lorry mechanic, bringing experience from two distinct vehicle worlds. He decides to test his abilities on a bicycle, aiming to push the limits of human‑powered speed. His background informs the approach he takes, blending mechanical know‑how with racing instincts. To achieve the target, he employs slipstreaming, a technique where a rider follows closely behind another vehicle to reduce air resistance. By positioning himself in the wake of a larger vehicle, he hopes to gain enough aerodynamic advantage to reach speeds far beyond typical cycling performance. This method is crucial to his plan. The ultimate objective is to break the British record for outright speed on a bicycle, set at 110 mph. The programme documents his preparation, the execution of the slipstreaming run, and the effort required to approach that benchmark. Success would mark a new national milestone in cycling speed.