Desert Peaks: An Ultra Running Story of Endurance, Family and the Journey Together

Some adventures are defined by the finish line. Others are defined by everything it takes to get there.

Earlier this year, Cikada partnered with ultrarunner Brian “Wolfie” Peterson to document his journey through the Desert Peak Ultra, a challenging 100 km race in Oracle, Arizona. The result is Desert Peaks: An Ultra Running Story — a Cikada short documentary about endurance, perseverance, family, and the people who help make extraordinary achievements possible.

More Than a 100 km Race

An ultramarathon may look like an individual challenge, but behind every runner is often a network of people helping them keep moving forward.

Throughout Brian's Desert Peak Ultra journey, that support came from family, friends, and his pacing crew. Cikada's own Angelo joined the crew on the course, while Cikada Touring and City e-Bikes helped Brian's family and the film team stay connected with the action and capture moments along the route that would otherwise have been difficult to reach.

The result is a story that goes beyond running. It shows the determination required to keep moving when the challenge gets harder—and the importance of having people alongside you when it does.

Turning Training Into Time Together

The Cikada story actually began before race day.

During Brian's training, the Cikada Touring helped make it possible for his wife and daughter to join him on longer outings. What had often been a solitary training routine became an opportunity for the family to spend more time outdoors together and experience a part of Brian's world they had previously watched from the sidelines.

That shared experience is captured by Brian's wife, Alia Peterson, who says in the film:

“That’s the fun thing, we get to do it together and hang out.” — Alia Peterson

That experience reflects something we believe strongly at Cikada: great mobility products shouldn't simply help you travel farther. They should create opportunities to experience more—and to bring others along for the journey.

Built for the Journey

The Cikada Touring is designed for riders who want to venture beyond everyday city travel. The Canadian model combines a 350W/80Nm mid-drive motor with a 720Wh battery and an estimated range of up to 125 km (78 mi), making it well suited to longer recreational rides and varied terrain.

Alongside it, the Cikada City offers an approachable option for everyday riding, with a 500W rear-hub motor, five pedal-assist modes, and an estimated range of up to 75 km (47 mi).

But Desert Peaks isn't really a story about specifications. It's about what becomes possible when the right equipment helps people stay connected to the experiences that matter to them.

Watch Desert Peaks: An Ultra Running Story

From training miles with family to the challenges of a 100 km ultramarathon, Desert Peaks captures the people, preparation, and perseverance behind Brian Peterson's journey.

For Cikada, the project represents what Ride with a Smile is ultimately about: getting outside, exploring farther, sharing meaningful experiences, and enjoying the journey together.

Watch Desert Peaks: An Ultra Running Story and join Brian, his family, and the Cikada team on the journey.

Explore Cikada Touring and City e-Bikes and discover where your next ride can take you.