Stage 4: igus:bike takes on its first race – and a fountain!
Michael Poepke | 6. August 2025
The Czech Republic’s leg of the igus:bike world tour ended in the most unexpected – and entertaining – way possible: by entering a race.
Tradition Meets Competition in Liběšice
Not just any race. The Liběšická Kašna in the small town of Liběšice is no typical cycling event. It’s part competition, part tradition, and part joyful chaos. And this year, it made history as the first-ever race featuring an igus:bike. Our brave rider, Tomáš Vlk, aka Dr. Wolf, took on the 1.2 km loop featuring cobblestones, dirt paths, grassy meadows – but no asphalt allowed! The unique start? Riders popped a balloon to kick off the race.
City Bike Turned Off-Road Contender
While designed for urban environments, the igus:bike proved its toughness on this challenging route. It held its own, showcasing durability far beyond smooth streets.
The Fabled Fountain Crossing
A crowd favorite was the fountain crossing, where riders navigated a narrow wooden footbridge across a water basin – a test of balance and courage that repeated three times during the race!
A Refreshing Finish
The race concluded at a local refreshment stand where competitors drank a small Czech beer before finishing – a fitting nod to Czech tradition. Though Tomáš didn’t win a medal, he earned the title of first-ever igus:bike racer. The bike’s resilience – through racing, water, and chaos – left a lasting impression on riders and spectators alike.
Our rider:
Tomáš Vlk
Tomáš (52 years old) has been working at HENNLICH as a product manager and a teamleader for bearings for over 20 years.
His hobbies include DIY, outdoor trips (especially with his dog) and cycling. That’s why he is very interested in the igus:bike.
Tomas doesn’t spoil any fun and thus portrays our mad scientist, Dr. Wolf in the company’s Christmas videos.
Map of this stage:
