Bayern stars cycle to training: Bayern manager and goalkeeper show their class

The FC Bayern Munich footballers began their pre-season preparations last week. Training got under way at Lake Tegernsee on Tuesday. And the Bayern stars were also on the move – cycling to training. Exemplary, you might think. But our critical eye has spotted more than just poor posture. A tongue-in-cheek analysis of the players.

In principle, it’s a good thing that Professional footballers are increasingly appearing in public on their bikes. After all, someone as fit as a Bundesliga pro wouldn’t drive a big car to the bakery, would they? They’re supported by a sponsor – in this case, Scott Sports. The questionable messages that are sometimes sent out in the process made us wonder. Perhaps someone should tell them that.

A few metres through the village on an e-bike

So, dear football stars, it all starts with the fact that you apparently need motorised assistance for the few metres from the hotel to the training ground. Only the two goalkeepers, Manuel Neuer and Jonas Urbig, turned up on non-motorised Scott mountain bikes. The rest cruised comfortably through Rottach-Egern on Lake Tegernsee on long-travel e-MTBs.

You’re sportspeople, after all! Here at BIKE, we perhaps know better than most just how much the e-MTB has earned its place in the diverse spectrum of bike types. But – Manuel Neuer and Jonas Urbig seem to be the only ones who share this view – in this case, a version without a motor certainly makes a much more dynamic and motivated impression. What’s more, it allows those well-trained footballers’ legs to really shine.

You can show your stance even when sitting

Anyway: Dear football stars, the fact that you take a short ride through the village in your training kit and trainers is one thing. But how on earth are some of you sitting on your bikes? The saddle’s set far too low, your hands on the handlebars and your feet just slumped listlessly on the pedals; some of you even shuffle past the fans with your mobile in your hand. That’s no way to kick off a new season!

The correct riding position on a bike is about more than just safety, ergonomics and efficiency. Sporty, dynamic, yet relaxed and graceful, perhaps with a smile on your lips – on a bike, you can simply sit back, or make a statement. In some photos, the Bayern stars seem to lack a certain air of confidence.

New standard: Discontinued model

So: what exactly are these bikes that the Bayern stars are riding? Can I buy them too? A quick check on the manufacturer’s website to see exactly which models are being showcased there proves fruitless at first. The only one is Vincent Kompany’s (40) trainer bike, which is a Scott Patron e-mountain bike (latest generation) >> (reviewed here).

Although the other bikes look as good as new, they’re only available in the sales or second-hand now. The Scott Scale Carbon hardtails ridden by Neuer and Urbig, and the Scott Patron eRide e-bikes, have already been unveiled for the 2023 model year.

If this is supposed to be a marketing campaign that’s been carefully thought through from start to finish, what on earth is the message? Probably: FC Bayern is sustainable and uses its bicycles for many years. Or: In Munich, people shop smartly in the sales, or even refurbished bikes? Perhaps the sponsor simply took the opportunity to clear out some old stock.

>> Training & Fitness: What footballers can learn from cyclists

Where skill and experience fall short – the helmet protects

Finally, and sadly all too often: cycling without a helmet. Or with a helmet that doesn’t fit properly. Yet everyone knows that a cycling helmet isn’t there to keep your hair in place – that sort of thing only happens on TV. In the event of a fall, it’s head protection that counts; even everyday journeys, such as the trip to the bakery or to the training ground, carry risks due to carelessness.

Just imagine getting your handlebars caught in one of those barriers, or an over-eager fan grabbing your wrist and holding on for too long. You’d end up face-first on the ground in a flash! The message remains clear: a helmet protects where skill and experience fall short. Even stars should wear one – especially because they set an example for millions of fans. And when worn properly, it looks great too!

The role models: the professionals

Professional sportsmen and women, such as the Bayern Munich stars, enjoy hero status. Their role as role models extends beyond sport. When such celebrities cycle without a helmet, they send out the wrong message. Even world-class athletes are vulnerable on a bike. Manuel Neuer’s reflexes won’t help if his front wheel slips on wet leaves. So show some style and attitude – even on a bike. More and more. More and more often.