Emilio Salgari
Al polo australe in velocipede
"Al polo australe in velocipede" by Emilio Salgari is a novel published in 1895. This adventure blends exploration with science fiction as American velocipedist Wilkye and British armorer Linderman compete to reach the South Pole first. Wilkye believes a motorized bicycle can traverse the final 600 miles to the pole, while Linderman trusts in ships and foot travel. Their rival expeditions face treacherous Antarctic conditions, dwindling supplies, and the brutal onset of winter in a desperate race for glory.