Man oh man. I had no idea what to expect these past few days. I’ve always heard the Berliner Fahrradschau was a good time, and I’ve always loved Berlin. So when Ken from ENVE invited me on a two-part trip in Europe, including Barcelona and Berlin, I couldn’t say no. So, what is the Berliner Fahrradschau all about? Well, it’s part of Berlin Bike Week, 7 days of events, races, rides, ultimately culminating with a three day expo in Station-Berlin, an old train depot in a post-industrial neighborhood.

We began our stay in Berlin bright and early Friday morning with a group ride called the King of Gravus. This 65km ride took us along the river out to the woods neighboring Berlin’s center city. From there, we did a big loop that included a few surprising climbs and some ripping singletrack. After four hours on the bike, we made our way back to the city center and began our experience of what I will now consider one of my favorite expos in the world.

Berliner Fahrradschau is part NAHBS and part Eurobike. Local and European framebuilders are invited to display customer bikes alongside consumer products. This, in turn, makes for a more engaging show in my opinion. One of the complaints people have with NAHBS is that it’s alienating, in terms of finances. Most bikes being displayed are over $6k, and with very little consumer products on display, the average cyclists leaves feeling frustrated. The Berliner Fahrradschau found the perfect mix of bling and budget, inviting brands from all over the world to display their new products.

Thus, a walk through the halls isn’t overwhelming. It’s a social experience and while it’s a lot to take in at first, there are plenty of distractions to ease the busy mind. Bike jousting, trials, pump tracks, fashion shows, breakdancing, flatland and even a swap meet all took place throughout the weekend. On top of that, the food was tasty and there were even booths serving alcohol all day.

So there you are, in an old train expo, surrounded by bikes and people who ride for various reasons. Be it commuting, sport or leisure. If, for some reason, you tire of the constant stimulation, you can hop on your bike and pedal around one of Europe’s greatest cities.

Yes, I know it seems like I’m selling you on the Berliner Fahrradschau, but I’m merely expressing my stoke for the past weekend’s events. I had a blast meeting people, hanging out and getting a taste for European cycling culture. If you’re ever in Berlin in March, try to make this show and the Berlin Bicycle Week. My only regret was not being able to attend some of the parties and the races, but in a city that literally never sleeps, even I need a break…

See more from the Berliner Fahrradschau in the Gallery!