Dalibors Story

Everyone Has A Story

This is the second issue of our Collective series, where we celebrate the individuals who move with us. Today, we meet Dalibor, based in Bratislava, Slovakia. An ultra-runner turned ultra-cyclist, bike mechanic, father, husband, and freedom seeker. Dalibor reminds us that the best journeys are about the deep transformative experiences within us.

This is what brings us together. Different starting points. Different limits. Different reasons for riding. Performance defined on your own terms. Movement that adapts to life, injuries, changes, and phases. A shared space where you do not need to fit a mould to belong. You show up as you are, and that is exactly enough.

What first pulled you into cycling, and what kept you coming back to it?

Around 2016, I stopped competitive long-distance running due to overtraining and racing too much. For a couple of years, I wasn’t doing any sport at all. Eventually, the routine called me back, and I started combining commuting with longer bike rides. Slowly, the miles added up and turned into a structured training routine. Over time, I naturally gravitated toward longer distances on the bike as well.

Today, cycling gives me a regular dose of dopamine. But chasing long-distance races gives me something deeper: a feeling of ultimate freedom.

How has riding shaped your routine, your mindset, or the way you see yourself?

My routine is built around cycling. With a full-time job and family life, I have to be creative to maintain and develop my training schedule. It has taught me discipline, efficiency, and how to make the most of limited time. Cycling isn’t just something I do, it’s how I structure my life.

Is there a moment on the bike that changed something for you?

My first ultra race probably shaped me the most as a cyclist. I realised I could actually be faster by riding slower, but more consistently. That shift in mindset changed everything. Since then, I’ve focused on steady, comfortable endurance rather than chasing maximum anaerobic power.

And nothing compares to the sunrise after riding through the night. That quiet moment, after hours in the saddle, is still the most beautiful experience I’ve had on a bike.

What feels most meaningful when you ride: the effort, the freedom, the people, or something else?

I’m naturally more of a solo rider, I value the focus and clarity that comes with riding alone. But a good companion on a weekend ride is priceless.

What are you working toward right now, and why does that goal matter to you?

Right now, I’m shaping my training around one goal: producing as much sustainable power as possible for all-day rides. I love long-distance racing, and I want to maximise my performance, even within a limited schedule. It’s about being efficient, consistent, and getting the most out of every session.

What part of cycling feels most like you, and why?

The simple rituals, eating well, stopping for a coffee, and enjoying a well-earned ride. Cycling, for me, is performance and pleasure at the same time.

How has the community around cycling influenced your journey?

I feel deeply connected to my local cycling community. Having friends across all disciplines, from road to gravel to MTB, helps me better understand different riders’ needs. As a bike mechanic, that perspective directly influences my daily work and how I approach each bike I build or service.

What does a perfect ride look like for you?

An early morning start while the city is just waking up. I complete everything on my training plan, and then I roll casually to a coffee spot to meet friends. Structured effort followed by relaxed connection - that’s the perfect balance.

Dalibor’s words illustrate that the road is a place for personal growth and finding one's own rhythm. His story is about the resilience to keep moving forward and the simple, honest pleasure of being present in nature. For him, every ride is an opportunity to connect with his own capabilities, community, freedom and enjoy the clarity that comes from a life in motion.

Everyone has a story. If you feel like sharing yours, get in touch.

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