A British cyclist who had been traveling the world by bike died in Bali after losing control of a rented motorbike on a steep road in the island’s north, an inquest has heard.
Nathan Molyneaux, 43, from southwest England, had already completed 19.300 km of his journey when he was involved in a fatal crash in May last year.
According to an inquest held in Truro, UK, Molyneaux was riding a Yamaha motorbike with a German national as a passenger when he lost control on a steep hill with a sharp bend at the bottom.
The crash sent the bike off the road and into a ravine in the Buleleng regency of northern Bali, where both men suffered fatal head injuries.
Adventures
Molyneaux had a background in academia and business but left behind conventional work to pursue his passion for cycling and travel.
According to his personal blog, the Covid pandemic reignited his love for adventure, prompting him to embark on a worldwide cycling tour.
In his blog, “Wandering Crank,” he documented his experiences across various regions, including Indonesia. He recounted the challenges of cycling in West Sumatra, highlighting the intense heat following heavy storms and the remarkable hospitality he encountered. He described an occasion when, after struggling in the scorching weather, a local restaurant owner provided him with a free lunch and a place to rest, even bringing a fan to help him cool down.
Obtaining Information from Indonesian Authorities: “Slow and difficult process”
His father, Reginald Molyneaux, told the inquest that obtaining information about the crash from Indonesian authorities had been a slow and difficult process.
The hearing also raised concerns over the possible condition of the motorbike, particularly the state of its brakes, which may have contributed to the crash.
“Nathan suffered a fatal head injury in a road traffic collision,” said Assistant Coroner for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Emma Hillson.
“He lost control of his motorbike for an undetermined reason and left the road.”
Molyneaux was in good health and had started his journey in the UK, traveling through Europe and into Asia before arriving in Indonesia.
