Latvia’s fixed-gear cycling pioneer, Toms Alsbergs, was the subject of a recent “Zem ķiveres” (Under the Helmet) podcast episode, exploring his journey from the underground fixie scene to establishing a bicycle business and his recent 3,000km ride to Turkey, according to Sportacentrs.com.
Alsbergs, the founder of “Tru Fix Kru” and the “Brūklene” bicycle shop, discussed the evolution of the fixie culture in Latvia, transitioning from a niche, speed-focused community to a broader commercial enterprise. The conversation, hosted on the “Zem ķiveres” podcast, also covered his shift from crit racing to gravel cycling, and the importance of building a community around a business.
The podcast delved into the challenges and rewards of long-distance cycling, specifically Alsbergs’ 17-day, 3,000-kilometer journey to Turkey. He openly discussed the realities of competition, entrepreneurship, and balancing family life with his passions, as well as how personal growth occurs alongside changes in life stages.
The “Zem ķiveres” series, produced by Klausītava, has previously featured interviews with other prominent Latvian athletes, including MTB rider Mārtiņš Blūms, who represented Latvia at the Olympic Games, as reported by Sportacentrs.com. Blūms’ episode focused on his experience at the Paris Olympics, the demands of professional mountain biking, and his connection to his home track in Jaunpiebalga.
A teaser for the episode featuring Alsbergs was released on YouTube, according to search results. Vivus.lv MTB Maratons promoted the podcast on Facebook, inviting listeners to submit questions for Alsbergs.
The podcast series continues to feature prominent Latvian athletes, with a recent episode dedicated to Mārtiņš Blūms, Latvia’s first MTB athlete to compete in the Olympic Games. The discussion with Blūms centered on his Olympic debut in Paris, the realities of professional mountain biking, and the challenges of competing at the highest level.