One rider dropped out after arriving in Amsterdam and finding a bike wheel had been stolen at the airport.

Other challenges including being unable to find accommodation — they were reported to the police in France for sleeping in tents beside the road — and the language barrier.

Although half quit due to health problems or emergencies back home, Lin said the team kept heading forward.

"Smiles, appreciation and help from tourists and officers along the way were encouragements to us," he said. "We'd like people from the world to see the vigor and vitality of Chinese senior cyclists."