Clemens Kaudela to move on to pastures new

In the world of professional cycling, ten years is a long time, and that is the duration dirt jumper, free rider and daredevil Clemens Kaudelas has been with the MERIDA family.

But as often in life, everything good has to come to an end eventually, and it is time for Clemens to change his colours and move on to pastures new. We are sad to see him go but are equally excited to see what the future holds for this talented young man.

Before he leaves, we have caught up with him to ask him a few questions about his decade at MERIDA.

MERIDA: When have you joined the MERIDA Athletes?
CLEMENS: Exactly ten years ago at Eurobike in Friedrichshafen and struck ‘the deal’ and I went home with my first bike from MERIDA, which was a UMF Hardy.

MERIDA: What was your 1st event/activity in MERIDA colours?
CLEMENS: Puh, I think it was the Masters of Dirt Freestyle Show in Vienna, but I am not sure, it’s been a while.

MERIDA: What was the most enjoyable part of your time at MERIDA, and what was the 'least enjoyable'?
CLEMENS: The most enjoyable thing was probably the Trip to Norway in 2013 together with Pavel Alekhin and Adrian Tell. This trip was so much fun. You can watch the video below. I could name a few more, but there is probably not enough time. There have been so many projects over the years, and the team at MERIDA have been super supportive and fun to work with. And to be honest, I can’t think of anything that was not fun…I guess leaving MERIDA is not much fun.

MERIDA: During your time with MERIDA, what was your most memorable biking event/session/competition?
CLEMENS: For sure it was my first time in South Africa at the first-ever Darkfest where all the other riders voted my ‘best rider of the week - The Darkking’. That was unbelievable for me!!
 

MERIDA: What were the most exciting/popular videos you have done while riding in MERIDA colours?
CLEMENS: Mhm, there are a couple, but one I enjoyed a lot was the HARDY TEAM Bikecheck video we did a few years ago. Also, make sure you check out the out NINE KNIGHTS 2016 videos as well as our MERIDA BIKES Norway trip in 2013. You can check out all three videos below. 

MERIDA: What are your plans for the future?
CLEMENS: I want to widen my riding horizon and really get into the events I am doing at the moment, which is big mountain freeriding. I will be doing more of the fest series events, like the Audi Nines and my dream is to start at Rampage! Watch this space.

Thanks for your time, Clemens. Now there is nothing left than to wish you all the best in your new ventures, and be assured, we will be watching with interest from the sidelines.

Good luck and happy flying!