In a world where electric mobility is constantly evolving, the journey that Alicia Sornosa made from Madrid to Switzerland on an electric motorbike in the summer of 2023 represents a significant achievement. Not only did she defy the limits of autonomy and recharging infrastructures, but she also showed that electric motorcycles are a feasible option for long journeys. Besides the technical challenges, this adventure represents a personal conquest and an inspiring message for all women motorcyclists.
In the context of International Women’s Day, held every year on 8 March, her achievement takes on greater relevance, highlighting the importance of giving visibility to women in spheres traditionally dominated by men, such as adventure motor tourism.
3,000 kilometres of excitement and discovery
The motor traveller and journalist embarked on the trip with a degree of uncertainty, wondering whether the autonomy of the motorcycle would be enough to complete the journey. Yet after 3,000 kilometres and 77 days, her experience clearly showed that travelling with an electric motorcycle is possible and most of all, a different way of riding, but equally exciting.
"At first I was worried I’d get a flat battery along the way, but with some good planning and a bit of practice, it became an incredible journey. It’s a different way of travelling, more silent, more connected with the surroundings, and definitely fun”, explained Sornosa on her return.
The Grand Tour of Switzerland: a paradise for electric mobility
The destination chosen was no coincidence. The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a route of 7,600 kilometres designed to highlight the country’s tourist attractions. What makes it special is that it has included over 300 recharging stations since 2016, making it the first tourist route to be fully adapted for electric vehicles. From the majestic Alps to the charming cities of Lucerne and Gruyères, travellers can enjoy spectacular landscapes without worrying about how they will recharge their motorcycle.
Planning: the key to a successful trip
One of the most important things to be learned from this journey was the importance of planning. Unlike conventional motorcycles, travelling with an electric motorcycle means users need to know where recharging points are located in advance, assuring alternative routes in case any of these are inoperative.
Sornosa’s experience got better as the trip went on: “Everything seemed complicated at first, but with time you learn to manage the autonomy, identify the most common places with recharging points, and everything comes more naturally. It’s just a matter of adapting to a new way of travelling".
A different yet equally exciting way of riding
Besides the logistics, the riding experience offered a new perspective too. The silence of the motor made for a more profound connection with the surroundings, enjoying each landscape without the usual sound of a motorcycle using a combustion engine. The immediate response of the accelerator and the absence of vibrations also meant this was a more flowing and exciting experience.
Inspiring message
This journey was not only a personal challenge and an experiment in electric mobility, but also a message of empowerment. Alicia Sornosa has become a prominent figure in the world of motor travellers, showing that women can take on any challenge, even those traditionally dominated by men.
In a sector where there is still a long way to go in terms of equality, her achievement reminds us of the importance of backing inclusion and sustainability in the sphere of mobility. Sornosa’s adventure is a clear example that passion and determination can take us anywhere, regardless of the barriers we have to overcome on the way. And on 8 March, her story is an inspiration for all women seeking to defy the limits and follow their own path, on two wheels and beyond.
Sources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT3NatjWaoc
https://motoviajeros.es/alicia-sornosa-recorre-3-000-km-en-una-moto-electrica-hasta-suiza/
