Jonas Salamon
Name: Jonas Salamon
Residence: Heidelberg
Sponsors: RAAW Mountain Bikes, Fidlock Bike, Levelnine Components, Platzangst
Main discipline: Freeride
Current "Bike of Choice": Raaw Madonna! An incredibly versatile enduro bike. Whether hard bike park banging, flowy trails or thick jumps the Madonna puts everything away and brings a huge riding fun
Instagram: @jonassalamon
Tell us about yourself, who are you and what makes you tick?
I grew up in a sporty family and always sought the thrill of any sport at an early age. Whether it was freeride skiing, kite surfing and then MTB riding, I always gave 101% in all sports. Even as a kid, no curb or set of stairs was left behind on the way to school. At the age of 10, my father took me mountainbiking more and more often on the trails at home. Already then I had a lot of fun doing it. At the age of 15 I went riding almost every weekend with my friends... but not only with my bike, also with a watering can and shovel #nodignoride. A short time later I also started dirtbiking and discovered a great passion for jumps. Today I just can not get enough Air-time.
Racing or just riding? And why?
I wouldn't call it "just riding".. Always higher - further - more stylish! When I ride MTB, it's not about the fastest time. Much more about feeling the flow, making the jumps and normal riding look casual and finding as much air time as possible.
What is your best MTB experience so far?
Phew hard to say! i think every new day on the bike is an enrichment for me that i don't want to miss. This includes the unforgettable road trips with friends or the achieved goals as much as the defeats.
Why do you love MTB riding?
If you saw the grin on my face at the trail exit, you would know! But it's not just the MTB riding itself that I love... I would say that having a good time with friends on and off the trails is just as important to me. Meeting new people and just sharing the passion for riding with others is something wonderful.
What are you most proud of in your MTB career so far?
When my first sponsor came knocking. That was a big milestone in my career. I am very proud and grateful to be a part of the Platzangst team for over three years. To have the honor of supporting the brand and sharing its philosophy externally with my community. Since the first contact with the brand I have been enthusiastic about the products and the quality and I can identify 100% with the philosophy.
Some advice that you would give to a young MTB kid who would also like to become a pro rider.
Whether racer, freerider or passionate MTB rider. My best advice to you would be to start riding DirtBike / Pumptrack as early as possible. The Dirtbike teaches you incredibly good skills that you can then transfer to the big bikes.