Meet Yang Lei and His Epic Journey
Meet Yang Lei, an adventurer who set out with his Vanpowers UrbanCross Ultra e-bike to conquer the legendary Sichuan–Tibet Highway G318, riding all the way from Chengdu to Lhasa. This iconic route spans over 2,000 kilometers across some of the most challenging terrain on Earth. In just 16 days, Yang pedaled 2,069 km through winding mountain climbs, high-altitude passes, and endless descents. The journey pushed his limits every single day, but it also rewarded him with breathtaking landscapes that few ever get to experience. He climbed over numerous mountain passes (two of them above 5,000 meters!) and endured thin air and extreme weather – all in pursuit of a dream ride to the “Roof of the World.”
“All the fatigue and persistence found their echo in that moment.” – Yang Lei, upon reaching Lhasa
Yang’s words capture the feeling of triumph as he arrived in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, after weeks of relentless effort. The Sichuan–Tibet Highway – often called “the epic 318” by cyclists – is renowned for its mix of awe-inspiring beauty and punishing difficulty. From the lush foothills near Chengdu to the snow-capped peaks and vast plateaus of Tibet, Yang witnessed a panorama of valleys, glaciers, and prayer-flag-draped summits. Each day brought new trials and wonders: steep climbs into thin air, exhilarating downhill runs, and nights under brilliant starry skies at high elevation. Through it all, one companion was by his side, turning a daunting quest into an achievable adventure – his Vanpowers UrbanCross Ultra e-bike.
16 Days Across the Roof of the World
Over the course of 16 days, Yang Lei averaged well over a hundred kilometers of riding per day. Such a feat would be tough even for pro cyclists, but doing it at altitudes of 4,000–5,000 m elevates the challenge to another level. On some days, he ascended thousands of meters in a single push, then plunged into long descents that tested his skills and courage. Imagine pedaling up to a 5,013 m mountain pass with thin air and rugged switchbacks, then cruising down through hairpin turns into a deep valley – exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. Yang tackled roughly a dozen major passes above 4,000 m along G318, experiencing firsthand why this route is famous among endurance cyclists.
Despite the physical toll, Yang found inspiration in the journey’s stunning scenery. “Every climb was worth it when you saw what lay on the other side,” he said. He cycled through misty forests and past roaring rivers in Sichuan, then up into alpine meadows and stark highlands where yaks graze. He crossed ancient teahorse trails and modern engineering marvels (like the high-altitude tunnels and bridges), witnessing remote villages and sacred sites along the way. Few riders in the world ever complete this route, but Yang’s combination of determination and the right equipment made it possible.
An E-Bike Built for the Challenge
Through it all, the UrbanCross Ultra became more than just a bike – it was a trusted partner that helped make this epic ride achievable. Vanpowers designed the UrbanCross Ultra as a lightweight, high-performance electric gravel bike built for both city commutes and rugged adventures, and Yang’s journey proved it on the grandest stage. Key features of the bike shone during the expedition:
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Powerful Electric Assist for Steep Climbs: The UrbanCross Ultra’s 250W brushless hub motor (520W peak) with a torque sensor gave Yang a crucial boost on punishing ascents. With 42 N·m of torque at his disposal, he could spin up long mountain passes without burning out his legs, even at altitudes where every pedal stroke is harder. The pedal-assist felt smooth and natural, responding precisely to his effort, so he still got a workout but with the extra help needed to crest those 15,000+ ft peaks.
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Long-Range Battery for All-Day Riding: Equipped with a 345.6 Wh LG lithium battery, the UrbanCross Ultra delivers up to 75 miles of range on a single charge. This long-range capacity meant Yang could cover big distances each day with confidence in the bike’s endurance. Fast-charging capability (about 60% charge in 1.5 hours) allowed quick top-ups whenever he stopped for the night. The reliable battery power, combined with smart management systems, kept his e-bike running strong through remote stretches where electrical outlets were scarce.
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Reliable Braking on Endless Descents: After summiting high passes, Yang faced countless downhill runs – some stretching tens of kilometers of switchbacks. The UrbanCross Ultra’s Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes gave him superb control and confidence on these long descents. With 160mm rotors for excellent heat dissipation, the brakes never faded even on steep, continuous downhill sections. Their precise modulation ensured he could navigate hairpin turns and rough roads safely, no matter the weather or terrain. Knowing his bike would stop on a dime at every turn allowed Yang to enjoy the downhill thrills without fear.
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Robust Build for Rough Terrain: From broken asphalt to gravel and mud, the conditions on G318 punished both rider and bike. The UrbanCross Ultra’s sturdy yet lightweight 6061 aluminum alloy frame (just ~39 lbs) was up to the task, engineered to exceed ISO durability standards for fatigue and impact. Its carbon fork and flared drop bars provided stability and control on bumpy roads, while the 700x40c gravel tires with puncture protection kept him rolling through construction zones and rocky sections without flats. Mile after mile, the bike’s solid construction and quality components proved they were made for journeys like this – absorbing shocks, maintaining stability with a loaded pack, and staying comfortable for the long haul.
Resilience, Discovery, and Freedom
For Yang Lei, this journey was far more than just covering distance – it was a personal odyssey of resilience, discovery, and freedom. He set out not just to reach Lhasa, but to test himself and see the world from the seat of a bicycle. Along the way he discovered the limits of his endurance and the vastness of China’s landscapes, meeting fellow travelers and local Tibetans who cheered him on. Every day required persistence: aching muscles, high-altitude headaches, and weather that swung from scorching sun to freezing rain. But every day also offered something new – a view that took his breath away or a moment of connection with nature and culture that made all the hardships worthwhile.
Importantly, Yang never had to worry about whether his e-bike could handle the challenge. The Vanpowers UrbanCross Ultra was there every step (or pedal stroke) of the way, making the impossible possible. It transformed an intimidating expedition into a thrilling reality by empowering its rider – literally – to go further and climb higher. By the time Yang rolled into Lhasa’s Jokhang Square, greeted by fluttering prayer flags and the realization of a dream, he knew that the UrbanCross Ultra had been the perfect partner for this epic adventure.
Yang’s 2,069 km trek stands as an inspiration to all e-bike enthusiasts and adventure cyclists. It shows that with passion, preparation, and the right equipment, even the toughest roads can be conquered. If you’re dreaming of your own grand cycling adventure – whether it’s a cross-country tour or just exploring new horizons on weekends – the spirit of this journey lives on. As Yang’s story proves, when you have the courage to push your limits and a reliable bike beneath you, no road is too long and no mountain is too high. Here’s to the spirit of exploration and the technology that helps make it possible, one pedal at a time.
