Alessio TonoliRiding the Dreamscape
For years, Barcelona was out of reach for Alessio,
blocked by recurring injuries.
Now the moment has finally come to make his dream a reality.
Riding the Dreamscape
Watch movie: Riding the Dreamscape
"I think it's simply because of the atmosphere in Barcelona. It's an important place for BMX and any kind of freestyle sport. I've always wanted to go there and this seemed like the perfect time."
4 Wheels
Loading up the BMW with three bikes for various spots around Barcelona, Alessio and the crew set off on the 1000-kilometer journey to escape the bad weather in Switzerland.
"My car means a lot to me and I often work on it. It's my life's work, so to speak. I like driving it and seeing the countryside. Even though it's quite an old car, it's still reliable. It requires constant maintenance, but that's what I love about it. It's like bikes, really."
I have a BMW because it's good as an everyday car and also for drifting. And yes, I really enjoy doing that. We also had the opportunity to do it in Barcelona, so we had to take some of these shots.
A car with a bike rack drifts through a bend with a silver BMW, surrounded by nature.
La Poma
In the middle of the Catalan countryside, close to the city of Barcelona, lies one of THE dirt spots in the world - La Poma.
The dirt park is famous for its spectacular jumps and technically demanding lines.
"The strong wind made driving quite difficult."
There is a large bowl between the familiar red-brown jumps of the dirt course. A little less interesting for dirt bikers, this is a real playground for Alessio. "The bowl is really impressive, it's understandable that this spot has become so legendary"
"Riding in a bowl is completely different, you have to find your own flow and try to maintain your speed. On the dirt track, you just jump and the speed is already there. But of course it's softer and slower than riding on concrete, which offers a completely different experience.
Both are really fun - I don't even know which I enjoy more. It's good to have both."
DOWNHILL
For the trip to Barcelona, the big bike had to be there too, of course. Inspired by a video by Loïc Bruni, a downhill route near Barcelona was high on Alessio's bucket list.
"When I saw Loïc's video, I knew that I absolutely had to see the track for myself."
It was a pretty challenging track, rough and flowing at the same time, with bends and not too big jumps.
Alessio was able to easily transfer the skills he acquired from BMX riding to mountain biking. "It feels more natural. It's not necessarily easier, but it's easier to manage over several consecutive days, even over several weekends. BMX riding is much more challenging and goes straight to the bone."
Another important aspect of mountain biking is the connection to nature, be it in the mountains or in the forest. The environment plays a crucial role, and the opportunity to be creative is just as important. It's about the overall experience and the place you're in.
Desert
Although Barcelona is known for its street spots, there is a gem just waiting to be explored away from the city.
Los Monegros stretches across majestic hills and valleys near Barcelona, and the landscape is reminiscent of a surreal backdrop from an adventure movie set. The rugged terrain and impressive expanse create an atmosphere that is both fascinating and challenging.
"We were there for a few hours, but it was very windy. I went up the hill and the wind was even stronger at the top. It was practically impossible to take pictures there. Unfortunately, the weather forecast and the schedule didn't allow for a second chance - we had to skip it."
"I still have a few spots and tricks open that I want to ride in Barcelona in the city and in the desert, so I definitely plan to come back."
BACKGROUND
Alessio grew into the bike world on small wheels. He learned his skills at BMX races and later in the park. For many years, he chased his bike in circles to finish faster than his opponents. Later, he swapped timekeeping for scores from tricks in the park. During this time, he was always inspired by downhill bikers. "I was already watching videos of Rampage 10 years ago. I was always inspired by that kind of thing and didn't have the money to buy a bike like that for a long time." By selling a car, Alessio was finally able to fulfill this dream.
