Ingolf Micklisch
- Reading time: 10 min .
- Written by Jan Wijnen
When you meet Ingolf Micklisch, you quickly understand he is not your average cyclist. As a dedicated ultra-distance racer who has competed in some of the most grueling events across the globe — including the legendary Race Across America — his commitment to human-powered endurance is unparalleled. Recently, however, his journey took an exciting new turn when he decided to add a fresh dimension to his training and recovery: the Bülk Distance velomobile.
From racing across the American continent to cruising the Texas cattle farmland in a sleek aerodynamic shell, Ingolf's story is one of resilience, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of cyclism excellence.
Ingolf's Story
Ingolf’s entry into the world of ultra-distance cycling was, by his own admission, somewhat unplanned. It began with local century rides in Cape Coral, Florida, where he rode regularly with the Caloosa Riders Club. A suggestion from his Sunday ride leader, Chuck Cantieny, led him to sign up for the Sebring 24-hour race. After a conversation with fellow cyclist Dave Brillhart about the non-drafting category and its link to RAAM Solo qualification, Ingolf changed his registration — and his life changed with it. He qualified with an impressive 440 miles and finished third across all age groups, earning his spot at the start line of Race Across America.
However, his path was not without serious setbacks. In late 2021, Ingolf was struck by a car that drifted into the bike lane, resulting in major brain bleeding and leaving him unconscious for three days. His recovery was long and arduous, but his determination never wavered. He returned to compete in RAAM Solo in 2023, and by 2024, he finished third across all age groups. In 2025, at 61 years old and racing entirely without crew support, he secured second place for men across all age groups in the WUCA WorldCup — a result that speaks volumes about both his physical capability and his mental fortitude.
Ingolf is also deeply motivated by a broader message. « The second important goal is to show to as many cyclists as possible that age and some health issues do not mean we must stop cycling and/or competing, » he explains. Racing without a coach and without a crew, he has proven that dedication and smart pacing can take an athlete remarkably far, regardless of age or circumstance.
How and Why He Acquired His First Velomobile — The Bülk Distance
For over a year, Ingolf hesitated about purchasing a velomobile. As a seasoned upright ultra-distance racer accustomed to his Trek Madone Gen8 SLR, the transition to a recumbent, fully enclosed vehicle represented a significant leap into the unknown. Yet the idea kept drawing him back. The promise of aerodynamic efficiency, all-weather protection, and a completely different kind of cycling experience eventually won him over.
In early 2026, he finally took the plunge and acquired the Bülk Distance — a model in the Bülk series, designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and long-distance travel. The timing coincided with his recovery from a left thigh muscle injury, making the velomobile a practical option for staying active while healing. When the Bülk Distance arrived, Ingolf was immediately struck by the care taken in packaging: the velomobile arrived in perfect condition, very well packed.
His initial rides were short — around 7 – 8 miles — as he dialed in his cleat setup, adjusted the seat position, swapped the pedals for his familiar Shimano setup, and began to understand the whole different muscle engagement required for recumbent riding. The learning curve was real, but so was his excitement.
Shared Features Across All Models
Drive & Dynamics
Featuring a lightweight yet stable monocoque construction with a low center of gravity for exceptional cornering, this design integrates a rigid drivetrain for maximum power transfer and custom-tuned elastomer suspension to optimize climbing performance.
Comfort & Space
Offering best-in-class shoulder room, this models features four body sizes with matching rigid, side-support seats and a huge cargo volume complemented by optional front storage compartments.
Safety First
Engineered for safety and reliability, this design features a GFK-reinforced cockpit for better GPS reception, a protective tail hump, and an Innegra/Nylon sandwich for crash absorption, complemented by a rounded shoulder rim to retain the rider and redundant dual braking for asymmetric control.
Maintenance Made Easy
This design optimizes convenience and efficiency by featuring front and rear service hatches for easy access to the bottom bracket, luggage, and drivetrain, alongside side hatches with quick-release axles and oversized chain pulleys to minimize drag
Extras & Tech Options
The system features integrated, misalignment-proof mirrors and precise tank steering with an optional tiller, further enhanced by multiple hood types with anti-fog venting and an available electrical package including headlights, taillights, blinkers, and a horn.
