24/03/25
In recent years, the term "social" has become an integral part of countless events and activities, often adding little to what was already inherently social. The same goes for cycling rides: what truly makes a ride "social"? And how can we contribute to an already rich and dynamic cycling scene like Berlin’s?
Drawing inspiration from our surroundings is one of the most valuable skills for a craftsman, both by vocation and necessity. This philosophy led us to collaborate with Acre Studio run by Katharina Siegel , creating a calendar of events that combines a love for cycling with curiosity about other creative fields.
2024 marked the first year in which we structured a program blending rides, art, and social interaction. Although the cold is still biting, the memory of these sunny days spent in great company warms the heart, making us eagerly anticipate the return of long evening rides.
Cycling and visiting art studios, exhibitions, and workshops are activities we regularly engage in. But these experiences have taught me that the reason we join a social event often shifts along the way: we come together to ride, but we take home much more.
One of the most amusing aspects of these rides was seeing cyclists, used to the open road, awkwardly navigating exhibition spaces in their cycling shoes. Perhaps the challenge is always the same: placing ourselves in the right place dressed in the wrong way and seeing what happens. After all, always knowing the route can become monotonous, while the real fun lies in the unexpected.
Anna Paul and the "Candy Shop" at Acre Studio
The first social ride took us to Acre Studio, where Vienna-based artist Anna Paul transformed everyday interactions into performative experiences. Cyclists moved through her installations, creating a fascinating contrast between their sports attire and the artistic atmosphere of the space
Brandenburg Open Studios: 100 km of Art and Nature
The second, longer ride led us to the Brandenburg Open Studios at Libken in Gerswalde. Here, resident artists opened their studios to visitors. The 100 km journey was punctuated with stops for fries, coffee, and laughter, culminating in a warm day filled with art, freshly made pizza, and delicious craft beer.
Philip Kanwischer and the Mystery of the Red M&M's
In June, another highlight was the presentation of "Why Red M&M’s Disappeared for Almost a Decade", a new artist book by Philip Kanwischer, published by Edizione Multicolore. His work explores collective perception and its influence, particularly in times of crisis.
Beyond Shelter by Deture project
Headed once again to the spaces of Libken, this time accompanied by Jonas Klock, who during his ACRE residency designed a functional shelter with a striking architectural presence.
Pictures above Stefan Haehnel
Michelberger Farm
A 100-kilometer ride towards Spreewald led us to Michelberger Farm, a special stop in our event calendar—a gastronomic digression dedicated to hospitality and the care provided by the Michelberger team in their serene oasis outside Berlin.
At the end of this experience, we hope to have interpreted the concept of "social ride" in the best possible way. More than definitions, we value the experience of sharing: setting aside the obsession with cycling performance for a moment and letting curiosity take the lead. We thank all participants, artists, and our partners.
Definitions matter—until they no longer do. Experiences, on the other hand, take us down new roads, sometimes making us ride further than expected and, who knows, might even stop the most dedicated cyclist for an unexpected slice of cake.
And for the new season? Give us time to develop something that meets our and your definition of a social ride, which we understand will not fail to define itself.
Text and pictures Stefano Zotti
24/03/25
In recent years, the term "social" has become an integral part of countless events and activities, often adding little to what was already inherently social. The same goes for cycling rides: what truly makes a ride "social"? And how can we contribute to an already rich and dynamic cycling scene like Berlin’s?
Drawing inspiration from our surroundings is one of the most valuable skills for a craftsman, both by vocation and necessity. This philosophy led us to collaborate with Acre Studio run by Katharina Siegel , creating a calendar of events that combines a love for cycling with curiosity about other creative fields.
2024 marked the first year in which we structured a program blending rides, art, and social interaction. Although the cold is still biting, the memory of these sunny days spent in great company warms the heart, making us eagerly anticipate the return of long evening rides.
Cycling and visiting art studios, exhibitions, and workshops are activities we regularly engage in. But these experiences have taught me that the reason we join a social event often shifts along the way: we come together to ride, but we take home much more.
One of the most amusing aspects of these rides was seeing cyclists, used to the open road, awkwardly navigating exhibition spaces in their cycling shoes. Perhaps the challenge is always the same: placing ourselves in the right place dressed in the wrong way and seeing what happens. After all, always knowing the route can become monotonous, while the real fun lies in the unexpected.
Anna Paul and the "Candy Shop" at Acre Studio
The first social ride took us to Acre Studio, where Vienna-based artist Anna Paul transformed everyday interactions into performative experiences. Cyclists moved through her installations, creating a fascinating contrast between their sports attire and the artistic atmosphere of the space
Brandenburg Open Studios: 100 km of Art and Nature
The second, longer ride led us to the Brandenburg Open Studios at Libken in Gerswalde. Here, resident artists opened their studios to visitors. The 100 km journey was punctuated with stops for fries, coffee, and laughter, culminating in a warm day filled with art, freshly made pizza, and delicious craft beer.
Philip Kanwischer and the Mystery of the Red M&M's
In June, another highlight was the presentation of "Why Red M&M’s Disappeared for Almost a Decade", a new artist book by Philip Kanwischer, published by Edizione Multicolore. His work explores collective perception and its influence, particularly in times of crisis.
Beyond Shelter by Deture project
Headed once again to the spaces of Libken, this time accompanied by Jonas Klock, who during his ACRE residency designed a functional shelter with a striking architectural presence.
Pictures above Stefan Haehnel
Michelberger Farm
A 100-kilometer ride towards Spreewald led us to Michelberger Farm, a special stop in our event calendar—a gastronomic digression dedicated to hospitality and the care provided by the Michelberger team in their serene oasis outside Berlin.
At the end of this experience, we hope to have interpreted the concept of "social ride" in the best possible way. More than definitions, we value the experience of sharing: setting aside the obsession with cycling performance for a moment and letting curiosity take the lead. We thank all participants, artists, and our partners.
Definitions matter—until they no longer do. Experiences, on the other hand, take us down new roads, sometimes making us ride further than expected and, who knows, might even stop the most dedicated cyclist for an unexpected slice of cake.
And for the new season? Give us time to develop something that meets our and your definition of a social ride, which we understand will not fail to define itself.
text and pictures : Stefano Zotti