Review: Sports Innovation Dialogues - Innovation on Two Wheels

The beginning was marked by the topic „Cycling – Innovation on Two Wheels“, with a focus on the evolution of technical developments in cycling and the resulting business models.

For about two hours, everything revolved around carbon, sensor technology, material research, market strategies – and the question of how cycling is changing and evolving through technology and entrepreneurship. Invited were representatives from research, industry, and practice, including manufacturers, startups, coaches, athletes, and strategists from the bike sector.

The event was opened with a keynote by track cycling silver medalist Tim Wafler, who, together with his coach Andreas Graf (Head Coach Track Elite/U23/Juniors), provided deep insights into the challenges of professional track cycling – particularly from an Austrian perspective.

What initially appears to be a high-tech sport reveals structural weaknesses in practice: hardly any infrastructure in their own country, no access to indoor velodromes, and limited opportunities for aero-optimization. Almost all developments are geared towards the world elite, forcing smaller nations to adapt, improvise, and invest blindly – often with limited resources. Decisions regarding helmets, clothing, or frames are often based on external data rather than their own measurements.

New Paths in Aerodynamics: The Windpuls Sensor by Christoph Feichtinger
A beacon of hope for data-driven optimization comes from Austria: The Windpuls Sensor by Christoph Feichtinger measures, for the first time during a ride, real environmental conditions – wind direction and speed. This enables a more precise analysis of airflow and provides the basis for individual optimization of posture, equipment, and strategy. For elite sports, this is a potential quantum leap, but also interesting for ambitious hobby athletes.

At the same time, it becomes clear: technology alone is not enough. Human and machine must be harmonized. The rider remains the largest aerodynamic influencing factor – making technologies for analyzing and optimizing body posture particularly relevant.

The first panel discussion – moderated by Stefan Litzenberger (FH Technikum Wien) – focused on the role of technological innovations in today's cycling sport. The spotlight was on sometimes contrasting perspectives from the industry and the question of when technology truly signifies progress.

Philipp Graf from XENTIS views the introduction of disc brakes in road cycling relatively critically. His company had already developed high-performance, patented carbon braking flanks – now almost entirely displaced by the industry. For him, disc brakes are aerodynamically questionable and technically unnecessary, especially in the time trial and triathlon sectors.

Christian Lembacher from Tubolito, on the other hand, welcomes the development. Thanks to the elimination of heat buildup on the braking flanks, his TPU tubes can now also be reliably used under high loads – with noticeable performance gains and high safety.

This clearly shows: innovation is interpreted very differently – depending on the product, perspective, and one's own market interests.

In the second panel, the economic environment of cycling was the focus – moderated by Ernst Novak (Tourism & Sports, Innovation Salzburg). Market strategies, business models, and the handling of innovation between risk and security were discussed.

Patrick Hackl from Boa Technology relies on controlled growth: extensive tests, no licensing to third parties, no market launch without complete testing – neither for the Boa closure itself nor for the products in which it is integrated as an OEM component. A strategy that focuses on control, quality, and long-term trust.

Valentin Vodev (VELLO) and Christian Lembacher (Tubolito), on the other hand, advocate for more speed – especially with innovative niche products. Those who hesitate too long risk being overtaken by the market. At the same time, both emphasized the importance of cultural differences: What works in Austria does not necessarily have to succeed internationally, but it can also open up new opportunities in reverse.

Finally, Michael Nendwich from VSSÖ urged attention to political framework conditions. Without targeted promotion, cycling infrastructure, and regulatory measures – such as e-bike initiatives or tax incentives – it would be difficult to unlock the full potential of the bicycle industry. The industry alone cannot compensate for what is neglected at the political level.

The first edition of the Sports Innovation Dialogues was more than a classic symposium: It combined well-founded content with a practical perspective, provided space for discussion, networking, and critical engagement. Particularly exciting was the openness of the guests to talk about challenges, missteps, and opportunities beyond marketing clichés.

Anyone who wants to understand the technology, economy, and future of cycling should mark the next edition on their calendar. We at Bikeboard.at will definitely be there again.