Going up just to come down

For Marco Brandstätter cycling isn’t a sport but rather a philosophy of life: in the Kitzbüheler Alpen mountains he finds his peace and tranquility. A few minutes alone for him in this unique mountain landscape are simultaneously motivation and incentive.

Sun, rain, wind or calm, Marco Brandstätter always prefers a bike to a car or other motor vehicle. Even as a child he would rather be on two wheels than on foot, a passion which hasn’t changed to this day. To this end, he has made his hobby his career. In his bike shop in Kirchdorf in Tyrol his customers can count on the very best of quality service as far as advice, repairs and sales are concerned. Marco is very committed to his roots and naturally to his mountain landscape. “I have grown up in St. Johann and can’t imagine living anywhere else other than in the middle of the Kitzbüheler Alpen. I belong here and that’s that!” Every free minute he has, draws him out and up. Be it a racing, Enduro, Race-Fully, E-Bike, Uphill or Hard-Tail bike – as long as he has two wheels nothing can get in his way of the longed-for “Flow”. “It’s not about beating records or setting new records, no! I cycle just for me – to find peace and tranquility – to escape from everyday life – to come down to earth and just enjoy life.” In Marco’s opinion, a lot of people are unable to do that. The pace of life has become too fast. However, what one loses in the hectic way of life can be reclaimed in the mountains. “There you don’t hear loud sirens wailing or cars racing by ever two seconds. Instead you’re alone with nature and its own rhythm.” That’s what everybody should live by. “For me biking is a lot more than a passing trend - it is a philosophy of life.”

In Marco’s opinion, you can always learn from ongoing discussions between cyclists and hikers: “I think that if everyone is considerate to each other, both parties can harmonise together side-by-side. However, it is important, and especially for newcomers on the E-Bike scene, that they make themselves familiar with their equipment, complete a skills training course, and don’t set off in a wild frenzy. This way many accidents can be prevented.” Take care and respect each other and the surroundings in which you frequent.

For all cyclists who want to “cycle” across the Kitzbüheler Alpen, the KAT Bike offers everything the heart desires. On a tour of 170 kilometres there is also a choice: each stage has a varying degree of difficulty, even the legendary Hahnenkamm is included in the route profile. An ingenious programme in Marco’s opinion: “The KAT Bike is ideal for everyone who likes to plan their cycling tours. With pre-booked accommodation and a luggage transport service, cycling tourists can devote their concentration entirely to the landscape and set off without any concerns. Cool Alpine pastures with rustic mountain huts are dotted along the stages, with hot showers, spa areas and the best of regional culinary cuisine awaiting you. For me the route from Mariastein to Fieberbrunn is like a comfortable long-distance cycle route where the fun and experience factor is enormously high. Particularly for tourists, who aren’t as familiar with the area as the locals are, is this type of tour planning ideal.”

#KitzbühelerAlpen | #KATBikeTirol | #LebenswegeTirol