A world champion gives the Hrinkow drivers tips in the future

2023-08-16 16:03:00

Pacemaker used to hear a long drawn-out “O” when he accelerated too much in a stationary race on his motorcycle. At the traditional Hrinkow bike ride on Assumption Day, there was an “Oooooo” from all those around 120 participants who recognized the three-time stayer world champion. Königshofer, now 60 years old and self-employed for two years after 25 years as marketing manager of a large sporting goods company, cycled for the first time this year with many hobby cyclists on this tour led by the Hrinkow racing bike professionals.

“I’ve known Roland for a long time. We used to ride in the juniors and then in the national cycling team in the 80s,” explains , team boss of the professional cycling team of the same name: “And when he recently needed a new racing bike after a fall , he approached me. And that’s when we came up with the idea of a cooperation.” From autumn onwards, Königshofer will train the next generation as well as hobby riders and customers at the Hrinkow Bike Academy.

“I was never the strongest driver in my active career,” says Königshofer, “but I was skilful and technically strong. And that’s the only reason I’ve won so often.” In his courses he teaches correct braking, cornering technique and the optimal position on the bike. “After two hours, most people have half the braking distance.”

Braking distances were also important for the accident-free Hrinkow bike ride, but the main focus was on having fun with a large throng of cyclists at times well over 50 km/h. Enthusiastic about the trip with the Hrinkow professionals , , and , , , , and among others were Raika boss , dentist , ex-driver and his wife , who had spent hours baking hundreds of sweet mice as a “reward” for the drivers.