Marco Waltenspiel lives in free fall: Marco is 39 years old, comes from Salzburg and is head of the Red Bull Skydive Team and is considered one of the best and most famous B.A.S.E. jumpers and wingsuit pilots. In his private life, the sportsman rides a Brixton Crossfire 500 XC. In this interview, he reveals what his motorcycle needs to have and how to handle speed properly.
You have an extraordinary passion – you love skydiving. How did you get into it?
I was born with this passion. My father also used to skydive and even as a child it was always my dream to be able to do the same as him one day. I have been passionate about flying for as long as I can remember.
What exactly is skydiving or B.A.S.E-Jumping?
The main difference with B.A.S.E. jumping is that you jump from a fixed object, for example a mountain, house or aerial. In skydiving, you jump from an aeroplane.
Which song describes how you felt when you jumped off?
I would say that ‘Low’ from 1000mods comes pretty close to this feeling.
When and where can we see you live in action?
I am part of the Red Bull Skydive Team and we jump at many events in Austria and Europe. The next highlights are our jumps at the Formula 1 at the Red Bull Ring (30 June), at the MotoGP in Spielberg (18 August), at the Airpower in Zeltweg on (6 September) and at the Red Bull Dolomitenmann in Lienz (7 September).
Your job is a real adventure. Why do you get on a motorcycle in your private life?
I think riding a motorcycle comes closest to flying 😉
You have to deal with speeds of up to 200 km/h in your job. What are your tips for dealing with speed correctly?
It is important to know your limits. If you feel unsafe, you shouldn’t take any risks.
You can be found in the ‘extreme sportsman’ category. How can you dose risk and danger correctly?
For me, it’s very important to be able to say ‘no’. Many people don’t listen to their feelings.
Can you compare motorcycling and skydiving?
Yes, I think the focus and the attitude are very similar.
Why did you choose Brixton?
It’s an Austrian product with a great design that catches the eye. Brixton is also a modern brand that offers me optimum riding fun.
Did you already have a motorcycle before the Crossfire 500 XC?
Yes, I had two motorcycles a few years ago, but now I only ride my Crossfire 500 XC.
What tours/trips have you planned for this year with your Brixton?
I want to take my Brixton to the mountains for the most part and go skydiving there. I’m really looking forward to it, especially in summer when the weather is perfect.
Are you a ‘lonsome cowboy’ when riding a motorbike or do you prefer to ride in pairs?
Different… I like to ride with my wife, but sometimes I like to go for a ride on my own.
Pimp my Bike: Which ‘update’ should not be missing on your Brixton?
Only the key must not be missing 😉 …I don’t need any special extras
What is your favourite route?
The Salzburg Lakes Tour! It is varied and the view is brilliant.
Follow Marco on Instagram: _marcowaltenspiel_