'SLOWER: SeLf-supported & Overland cycling World REsearch' is a sociological research project focus on understanding - via qualitative approach (using interviews and focus groups) - self-supported ultracycling/ultra-distance cycling, in particularly how this community looks at the evolution of the sport/activity and how is experiencing/reacting to the current changes. 'SLOWER' is a 'community-based' science project and will seek answers and/or clarifications to questions such as:
- What is self-supported ultracycling/ultra-distance cycling? What are the differences and boundaries for other bicycle-based activities and 'traditional' cycling sports?
- Which is the origin of self-supported ultracycling/ultra-distance cycling and how important is the legacy noways?
- What are ultra/long-distance cyclists' feelings about the sport/activity and how strong is their sense of identity?
- How does the 'traditional' cycling community and industry look at self-supported ultracycling/ultra-distance cycling?
- Which changes are expected in the sport due to the increasing number of ultra/long-distance cyclists, races/events and support from the bicycle and cycling industry?