Stage 5: Engineering roots, Serra roads and Brazilian traditions
Michael Poepke | 4. March 2026
Some stages of the journey are defined by landscapes.
Others by people, traditions and unexpected moments.
Stage 5 of the igus:bike worldtour in Brazil turned out to be one of those days that brings a little bit of everything. .. from a quick stop at one of the country’s most iconic industrial brands to historic mountain roads and the flavors of Brazilian street culture.
A quick visit to Volkswagen do Brasil
The day began with a brief stop at Volkswagen do Brasil.
The visit was short, but symbolic. Much like igus, Volkswagen has strong German roots and a long history of engineering innovation. During the stop, the team shared a bit of the story behind the igus:bike and the world tour, while taking a few photos together in front of the facility.
Even though it was a short stop, it was a nice reminder of the shared engineering roots behind both companies.
From there, the route continued toward one of Paraná’s most scenic roads.
The road through Serra da Graciosa
Leaving Curitiba behind, the tour followed the historic road of Serra da Graciosa.
Before starting the descent, the team stopped at the famous portal marking the entrance to the road — a classic photo point for travelers heading toward the coast.
Built in the 19th century, the Serra da Graciosa route winds through the Atlantic Forest and offers one of the most beautiful drives in southern Brazil.
The road curves gently through dense vegetation, viewpoints and historic stone sections that remind visitors how long this connection between the plateau and the coast has existed.
A spontaneous bike demonstration
Along the way, the igus:bike once again attracted curious looks.
Visitors — both Brazilians and international travelers exploring the scenic road — stopped to ask about the unusual bike and the story behind the tour.
Naturally, it didn’t take long before the bike became the center of attention and turned into an impromptu demonstration.
Photos were taken, questions were asked, and for a few moments the roadside viewpoint became a small international meeting point — showing how curiosity and engineering innovation easily bring people together.
A very Brazilian roadside tradition
No Brazilian road trip would be complete without a stop for one of the country’s most beloved street food traditions: pastel with freshly pressed sugarcane juice.
Served in open-air markets and roadside stands across Brazil, the combination is simple but iconic.
A crispy fried pastry filled with cheese, meat or vegetables.
And a glass of fresh sugarcane juice, pressed on the spot.
For many Brazilians, it is the taste of weekend street markets, road trips and relaxed conversations.
Arrival in Morretes
The descent of the mountain eventually leads to the charming historic town of Morretes.
Known for its colonial architecture and calm riverside atmosphere, Morretes is also famous for one of Paraná’s most traditional dishes: Barreado.
After the journey through the mountains, the team stopped for lunch to experience the dish — a slow-cooked beef stew traditionally served with rice, farinha and banana.
With lunch finished, there was still time for a short walk through the town center and the local artisan market, where visitors can find handmade crafts, local products and a glimpse of everyday life in the region.
Movement through culture and landscapes
Stage 5 showed that the igus:bike journey is not only about technology or industry.
It is also about landscapes, encounters and traditions.
From German engineering heritage to mountain roads, from roadside street food to historic Brazilian towns, every stop adds another layer to the story.
And the journey continues.
Our riders:
Miriam Araldi – Marketing Analyst at igus do Brasil
My name is Miriam, I am 28 years old, and I have been part of the marketing team at igus Brazil since 2017. Looking back, it’s incredible to see how quickly time has passed and how much we have evolved since I started this journey at 19.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to closely follow the expansion of our brand in the Brazilian market. In marketing, my focus has been on the strategic prospecting of new clients through industrial campaigns and the organization of events that connect our solutions directly to our partners’ challenges. Seeing igus grow and knowing that I am one of the “entry points” for new clients to discover our technology is what motivates me every day.
I truly believe in our solution-driven mindset and our commitment to simplifying industrial processes through our products. A lot has evolved since I joined in 2017, but the partnership within the team and the technical quality of what we deliver remain our core pillars.
Marcelo Fialkowski – FGBU Specialist at igus do Brasil
My name is Marcelo Fialkowski, and I have been part of igus Brazil since 2016.
Over the past three years, I have been responsible for the FGBU product line nationwide, overseeing six business units with high growth potential and applications across multiple industrial segments.
I began my journey with the drytech team, where I was responsible for the entire state of Paraná. With the region’s consistent growth, we structured the expansion of the team and now have three dedicated technical consultants supporting our local customers.
After 10 years representing igus, I remain motivated by constant innovation and by the challenge of driving new business, always focused on sustainable growth and value creation for the market.
Gabriel Volpato – Marketing analyst
My name is Gabriel, and I have been part of the igus Brazil marketing team since 2020, when I joined the company as an apprentice. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to grow alongside the company and evolve within the marketing area.
Today, I work with graphic design, video editing, and digital marketing initiatives, helping transform ideas into visual experiences that communicate the igus purpose. I enjoy being hands-on, learning new skills, and taking on challenges with enthusiasm, whether behind a camera, at the computer, or on the road.
Accompanying the igus Bike Tour throughout its entire journey is a unique opportunity for me to tell real stories, capture meaningful moments, and showcase how our brand connects with people, places, and innovation.
I am truly excited to be part of this experience and to help ensure that every stage of the tour becomes a memorable chapter in our story.
Map of this stage:
