Mercedes-Benz, through its high-performance division AMG, is deepening its collaboration with Rotwild, the globally recognized manufacturer of premium mountain bikes. This intensified partnership marks a significant step as AMG becomes the title sponsor for the Rotwild mountain bike racing team, now officially named the AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team. The unveiling of this exciting venture took place in Affalterbach, where AMG CEO Tobias Moers and Rotwild CEO Peter Schlitt jointly presented the newly formed team, signaling a powerful alliance in the world of mountain biking.
The collaboration between these two high-caliber brands began the previous year, highlighted by the introduction of the “R.X45 AMG” full-suspension carbon fiber bike. This initial offering, styled to echo the “Edition 1” of the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG, perfectly blended racing technology with distinctive design and German engineering prowess. This synergy of race-bred innovation, striking aesthetics, and German precision engineering forms the bedrock of the ongoing relationship between AMG and Rotwild, promising future collaborative projects that push boundaries in both automotive and cycling performance. Building upon the success of their first joint venture, these two esteemed German brands are now elevating their partnership with the introduction of a dedicated professional mountain bike team.
“Racing is in the DNA of AMG, and our commitment to competitive sports remains a core pillar of Mercedes-AMG,” stated Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, during the team’s presentation. “In Rotwild, we have discovered an ideal partner to amplify our dedication to racing within the realm of cycling. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming season with Rotwild and extend our wholehearted support to our joint team, hoping they achieve triumphs on two wheels mirroring the successes of our racing cars on four.” Peter Schlitt, CEO of Rotwild, further commented, “AMG and Rotwild represent peak performance and efficiency, both handcrafted in Germany. Historically, both premium brands have consistently set benchmarks in their respective fields through groundbreaking technical advancements and remarkable sporting achievements. This robust partnership will undoubtedly amplify our collective impact. We are excited for the season ahead and wish the riders every success.”
The AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team: A Force in Mountain Biking
The AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team operates in conjunction with leading brands in the cycling industry, each sharing a commitment to racing, advanced engineering, and superior performance. Ensuring the team’s mobility needs are met, the athletes are not only equipped with top-of-the-line Rotwild R2 racing bikes but also travel in style and performance with the Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG.
The team roster includes two promising U23 riders, Lukas Baum and Sofia Wiedenroth, alongside seasoned elite rider Nadine Rieder. These three athletes will proudly represent the AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team in the upcoming season, competing in prestigious events such as the UCI MTD World Cup, national and international championships, the German MTB league championship, and prominent European bike festivals. Season highlights include the German World Cup race in Albstadt, the European Championship in St. Wendel, and the World Championships in Hafjell, Norway. Following their impressive performances last season, Lukas Baum and Sofia Wiedenroth aim to solidify their positions in the U23 category this year. Nadine Rieder, recognized as Germany’s fastest female sprinter in 2013, is focused on securing podium finishes in short-distance events and achieving high rankings in the World Cup.
The 2013 season was a landmark year for Rotwild, marking its 18-year racing legacy with unprecedented success. Lukas Baum’s junior achievements included World and European Championship titles, along with a German Championship gold. Sofia Wiedenroth also shone, securing gold and silver at the German and European championships, and achieving fourth place at the World Championship.
Completing the team is Canadian Richie Schley, a Rotwild brand ambassador and a celebrated figure in the freeriding world. As a pioneer of the freeriding movement, Schley will bring his dynamic skills to select European endurance races, adding another dimension to the team’s diverse capabilities.
Rider Profiles: Meet the AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team Athletes
Lukas Baum
In the 2013 season, Lukas Baum distinguished himself as Germany’s most accomplished junior mountain biker. His remarkable triple championship victories—gold in the German Championships, European Championships, and the World Championship—culminated in a perfect season for him and his team. Moving into the U23 class, Lukas aims to establish himself as a leading competitor and maintain an aggressive racing style. Team manager Danny Herz expresses confidence in Baum’s potential, noting his knack for surprise performances. Lukas is targeting a Top 10 finish in the World Cup and a podium position at the German Championship, with the European Championships in St. Wendel, Saarland, as a key focus.
- Name: Lukas Baum
- Born: February 28, 1995, Speyer
- Residence: Neustadt/Weinstrasse
- Coach: Wolfram Kurschat
- Club: RSC Neustadt
Sofia Wiedenroth
Sofia Wiedenroth’s career trajectory is marked by consistent improvement, highlighted by her title as European vice-champion and multiple German championships. Team manager Danny Herz praises Sofia’s exceptional riding technique, adept at navigating challenging bends, obstacles, and jumps. Despite facing a knee issue during pre-season training, Sofia has adapted with new training regimens. Her ambitions for the U23 class include breaking into the Top 15, with a strong focus on achieving significant results at the World Championships in September 2014.
- Name: Sofia Wiedenroth
- Born: January 30, 1995, Augsburg
- Residence: Niederstaufen, near Lindau on Lake Constance
- Coaches: Rolf Frey, Peter Schaupp
- Club: TSV Niederstaufen
Nadine Rieder
Nadine Rieder demonstrated exceptional sprinting prowess in 2013, establishing herself as Germany’s fastest female rider, narrowly missing a World Championship podium finish. Her versatility extends to marathon racing, showcasing her all-around capability. To further refine her skills, Nadine incorporates diverse training methods, including skiing, weight training, dirt biking, and freeriding. Her 2014 season is strategically focused on sprint and cross-country disciplines, with a clear goal of securing a World Championship medal.
- Name: Nadine Rieder
- Born: July 17, 1989
- Residence: Sonthofen
- Coach: Wolfram Kurschat
- Club: RSV Sonthofen
The R.R2 HT 29: The Racing Machine of the AMG Rotwild MTB Team
For the 2014 season, the AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team has chosen the R.R2 HT 29 as their primary race bike. The frame of this ROTWILD 29 race hardtail is constructed using MMT2 high-performance carbon fiber technology, an in-house innovation by Rotwild. This modular monocoque construction method involves layering carbon fiber modules section by section to create an exceptionally robust frame tailored for racing demands. The R2 is engineered to translate power directly to the racetrack, featuring a maximally rigid pedal crank for efficient power transfer and a specially designed handlebar for enhanced steering precision on technical terrains. Through uncompromising engineering and a relentless focus on performance, the R.R2 HT 29 transcends the sum of its components, offering a superior racing experience.
The bike’s components further underscore its racing pedigree, featuring Shimano XTR race components known for their high-quality materials like magnesium, carbon fiber, titanium, and aluminum, ensuring both lightness and durability. Suspension and wheel systems are provided by DT Swiss engineers, with the AMG Rotwild MTB Racing Team bikes equipped with custom-configured Custom Team suspension forks. Continental Race King tires, utilizing a specialized Race Sport mixture, guarantee optimal traction, ground adherence, and speed even in challenging race conditions.
