KArl Platt
PRODIGY WITH LOTS OF IDEAS IN HIS HEAD
Karl Platt, a five-time Cape Epic winner, has become a fixture in mountain biking. Since the end of his professional career, Platt has remained active in cycling. He races the Masters. “King Karl”, as he is lovingly called by his fans, lives with his family very near SIGMA headquarters and rides his favourite trails in the Palatinate Forest as often as he can.
Karl Platt has been part of the SIGMA family for 15 years. “As a brand ambassador, I want to actively promote the SIGMA brand,” says Platt. “I have done a lot of cycling in my day and have lots of ideas for how we can improve biking for pros and amateurs. I am looking forward to integrating those ideas into new SIGMA products.”
profile
Nationality
German
Discipline
MTB marathon
Licence
Masters
Training area
Palatinate Forest
First season
1994
Successes
5 x
Cape Epic winner ’04, ’07, ’09 ’10, ’16
7 x
Transalp winner ’02, ’04, ’05, ’06, ’07, ’08
2 x
German Marathon Champion ’05, ’15
1 x
World Champion Marathon Masters ’21
sigma stories
9 questions for Karl
What motivates you to get on the bike every day?
I don’t ride every day anymore, but I do ride fairly often because I just love it!
How did you get into cycling?
I loved riding a bike even as a small child. After that, things just took their course.
In one word, describe the feeling you get when you cycle.
Love
What was the most difficult moment in your career?
Before that, there was nothing that I couldn’t take.
Your favourite drink during a coffee break?
The three Cs: coffee, Coke, and cake
What surface do you like riding on best?
I love dry trails with roots and rocks on a light bed of sand!
What music do you listen to when you’re warming up?
I don’t need music during warm-ups.
What do you absolutely need during a competition?
Relaxation and a good mood.
What would a perfect day on the bike be like for you?
Hopping on the bike at dawn in perfect weather and getting back home after dark.
Karl about the rox 11.1 evo
“The ROX 11.1 EVO combined with the SIGMA RIDE APP makes handling a lot easier, so I can plan whole tours or just the return leg! Its battery lasts for a very long time, so I don’t have to worry when I go for a long ride.”
Karl about the BUSTER 2000 HL
“A good light is indispensable, and not just for long rides. The BUSTER 2000 is the perfect light!”