Stage 9: Automation, nature and a farewell to Paraná
Michael Poepke | 11. March 2026
Every stage of the igus:bike journey shows us a different side of the places we visit.
Some highlight industry and engineering.
Others showcase landscapes and culture.
Stage 9, the final day of the tour in the state of Paraná, brought both together — starting with a visit to an innovative automation company and ending in one of the region’s most impressive natural landmarks.
Visiting Águia Sistemas
The day began in Ponta Grossa with a visit to Águia Sistemas, a company recognized as a leader in intralogistics automation in Brazil.
At Águia, the team met with Cristiano, automation coordinator at the company, who shared insights into the type of projects they develop.
Águia Sistemas specializes in automation solutions for internal logistics, developing systems used in distribution centers and industrial plants. Their projects include everything from material handling systems to picking lines, separation lines, checking systems and sorter technologies that support the shipping process.
These solutions serve a wide range of industries, including pharmaceutical, e-commerce and manufacturing sectors.
What makes these projects particularly interesting is that Águia integrates the entire automation ecosystem — from mechanical components to software and system integration with client platforms.
Where motion technology makes the difference
During the conversation, Cristiano explained how igus solutions are integrated into many of these systems.
Whenever there are mechanisms involving movement, Águia frequently turns to igus components to improve reliability and durability.
In sorter systems and other moving mechanisms, igus bushings and guide systems are used to ensure smooth operation and long service life.
One of the main advantages highlighted by the team is the maintenance-free operation of igus components.
Because they operate without lubrication, they simplify installation and reduce maintenance needs — an important factor in large automation systems that must run continuously with high reliability.
Through close collaboration between engineering teams, the companies have been able to select the right components for each application, achieving high levels of performance and reliability in the equipment developed by Águia Sistemas.
A final stop in Paraná: Buraco do Padre
After the visit, the journey continued to Buraco do Padre, one of the most iconic natural sites in the region.
Hidden within towering sandstone formations, the site reveals a spectacular waterfall cascading nearly 30 meters inside a massive natural cavern.
The peaceful forest surroundings created a striking contrast with the industrial environments visited earlier in the day.
Standing there, surrounded by cliffs, forest and the sound of falling water, it felt like the perfect place to pause and reflect on the journey through Paraná.
Thank you, Paraná
Over the past stages, Paraná welcomed the igus:bike worldtour with open arms.
From engineering partners and innovative companies to local guides who helped us navigate roads, trails and cities, every encounter added something special to the journey.
To our customers, partners and friends who received us along the way — thank you.
Paraná showed us its industry, its landscapes and its people.
And now the igus:bike continues its journey toward the next destination.
SAFETY PARTNER
To ensure the protection of the igus:bike throughout the entire tour, the initiative counts on the support of Seguros SURA Brasil, a specialist in risk management and future mobility trends.
As the journey progresses, this partnership highlights an essential aspect of cycling culture: safety. While igus develops engineering solutions for applications in motion, SURA offers insurance designed for cyclists, regardless of their riding profile.
The Bici SURA coverage includes:
• Accidental damage during use or storage of the bicycle
• Theft or robbery
• Electrical damage in electric bicycles
• Damage during transportation when carried out by the insured rider
• Full reimbursement of transportation and rescue costs for the cyclist in case of accidents
To learn more, visit:
https://www.segurossura.com.br/mobilidade/seguro-bici-sura
Our riders:
Guilherme Brauhardt – Outside Sales igus do Brasil
My name is Guilherme … and more info will follow later on!
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:
