Stefan Hegger Sets New 60+ World Record at Aldenhoven!
- Reading time: 6 min .
- Written by Velomobile World
This past weekend, at the iconic ATC Aldenhoven Test Center in Germany, Stefan Hegger proved that age is nothing but a number, and speed knows no retirement.
At 62 years old, Stefan not only competed in the prestigious 2025 World Record Event for human-powered vehicles, he shattered the 6-hour record in the 60+ category, covering a jaw-dropping 318 kilometers at an average speed of 53 km/h.
And he did it all inside his trusted companion: a custom-built Bülk Race velomobile.
A Journey Fueled by Passion
Stefan’s journey to Aldenhoven didn’t begin with the pursuit of fame or medals. It started, quite simply, with a desire to find purpose after retirement.
“I’ve always looked for challenges,” he explains. “Last year, I rode 4,500 km around Germany. This year, I wanted to see how far I could go in 6 hours on a closed track. It was about doing my best, and having fun doing it.”
Training 20 hours a week and preparing with the Enduco cycling app, Stefan approached this record attempt with the focus of a pro, but the heart of someone who truly loves riding.
The Race That Almost Didn’t Happen
The record-breaking ride wasn’t without drama. About 2 hours and 40 minutes into the attempt, disaster struck: a flat tire forced Stefan to stop and push his velomobile all the way back to the pit lane. In the middle of a world record attempt.
But he didn’t give up.
He quickly swapped into his backup Bülk MK1 and continued, keeping a blazing pace for the remaining hours, despite the 15-minute delay.
“I think without the flat, I could’ve reached around 345 km,” Stefan reflects. “But I’m still incredibly happy. The important thing is that I finished. I showed what’s possible.”
The Machine Behind the Man
The star companion in this feat was the Bülk Race, a sleek, feather-light, custom-made velomobile engineered for performance and endurance. With aero kit, a modified NACA duct for cooling, and knife-spoke Fratelli rims, the Bülk Race proved to be about 4 km/h faster than Stefan’s regular setup, using 10 watts less power.
“So it is great that Jan is supporting me and I hope that we can light the fire for very fast velomobiles again. It is important to support Jan in his job. I know the times “before Jan”, says Stefan
Even with minor setbacks, like riding without the rear aero kit due to a suspension issue, the Bülk Race delivered the performance Stefan needed to make history.
Beyond the Numbers
But this was never just about distance. Or even records.
It was about showing that retirement isn’t the end of the road, it can be the beginning of your fastest chapter yet.
“I hope this inspires others to take up challenges, to get outside, to try a velomobile. We can redefine mobility, and age doesn’t need to be a limit.”
What’s Next?
“Maybe 12 hours next time,” Stefan teases.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: when Stefan Hegger sets his mind to something, the finish line better be ready.
A heartfelt thank you to droplimits.com for covering the event and providing real-time tracking and data insights.
And special thanks to Jörg Basler for the incredible photos that captured the spirit, speed, and soul of this unforgettable achievement. Your work brings the story to life.