Distributor in the spotlight – meet Radoslav Štefánik

In the last instalment of our Distributor in the spotlight series, we met Peter Ilavský, the MD of MERIDA Czech Republic. For this next interview, we travelled to Slovakia to the other office of this family-run distributorship. Here, we met Radoslav Štefánik, who is a product manager (and so much more) at MERIDA Slovakia. It was probably written in the stars that he would work in the family business as his father, Jaro, founded the distributorship (story here). Rado is a keen cyclist and a gravel convert who loves nothing more than being out on the Slovakian mountains on his SILEX surrounded by nature. So this was an easy decision for him to follow in his father's footsteps, so he could combine his love for cycling with his passion for international travel. Talking to him, it is clear he has inherited his father's love of the cycle industry and passion for all things MERIDA. When not working with MERIDA bikes or riding one, he can be found aquascaping – don't know what this means, nor did we, so read on…

Who are you and what is your job role?
I am Radoslav Štefánik (known as Rado), and my job is Product Manager for MERIDA Slovakia. However, I am what you might call a 'Jack of all trades' as I cover various roles which include product management, IT system management, statistical analysis of sales reports and so on.

How long have you been in the company, and how did you get to your current position?
I have worked here for 10 years; this was my first job after leaving university, where I studied informatics. I was encouraged to start working here by my father, Jaro, who owns the business (https://www.merida-bikes.com/en/p/merida-world/stories/merida-czech-and-slovakia-786.html). I didn't mind, of course, as I love cycling and the cycling industry, as I grew up surrounded by MERIDA bikes. I have worked in all areas of the company, including the warehouse and selling bikes in the shops, so I have intimate knowledge of how every aspect of the business functions, which has given me an excellent foundation for my current role.   

What is a typical working day like for you?
I don't really have a typical day; I do whatever is needed. There is always something unexpected that comes along that needs to be addressed or resolved.

Does your interest in cycling help you in your day-to-day role?
I got into cycling as I started riding with my father. I grew up around cycling, and it is close to my heart. I think, as I am a cyclist working in this industry, I am more connected to the products.

What sort of cycling is popular in Slovakia?
We have lots of mountains, which means nature is accessible from nearly every city, so mountain biking is the obvious choice for sport or fun. There are events you can compete in, such as marathon racing or road racing, as well. Commuting is not that popular outside of the cities, even in the cities, the infrastructure still isn't there to support commuting yet.

We have seen an increase in e-bikes around the world. What is the use of e-bikes in Slovakia?
Most e-bikes we sell are mountain bikes used for sport and leisure. Obviously, with our mountainous terrain, an e-bike enables you to see more without killing yourself on endless climbs.

What MERIDA bike are you currently riding, and have you made any changes and alterations to it? If so, what benefit did they bring?
I am currently riding a SILEX 7000. I mainly ride on the gravel these days. I have upgraded it with a dropper post to have better capability on downhill sections. I have also changed the bar tape to a rubber one, but mainly I chose it for the colour as it matches the decals. My final alteration will be skin wall tyres to complete the look!

What is your all-time favourite MERIDA bike, overall and in the current range?
The SILEX is my favourite bike. I was previously a road rider, and I used to race on the road, so I was used to the aggressive riding position of road bikes. The original first SILEX I rode felt very different in the more upright riding position. Then I had a MISSION, now I have the latest SILEX, which is perfect for me as the geometry is slightly more aggressive, without losing its off-road capabilities. I am a convert to gravel riding, and I feel I can tackle any terrain on my SILEX; it's the only bike I need.

What do you think are the most exciting developments of the MERIDA brand over the years?
This is a tough question, as there are many answers I could give. I think entering the World Tour and supporting Team Bahrain Victorious and our previous professional road teams elevated the company and our brand recognition.

What is your main cycling discipline, and how did you get into the sport?
I am mainly gravel riding now, I love it as the SILEX means I am not afraid to go anywhere, whatever the trail throws at me, I am ready for it. I got into cycling through my father and started on a mountain bike. I progressed to road riding as that is his discipline, but I think in my heart I am a graveller!

Do you have other hobbies away from two wheels?
I love simulator racing – Formula One-style cars with a steering wheel and pedals. Some games simulate real racetracks, and you can race other people. I also have an aquarium and keep fish; I have been trying to use aquascaping, which uses plants rather than chemicals to keep the water clean. It is tricky, and unfortunately, with my most recent attempt, the algae won! The fish survived, but it's back to the drawing board for me to learn more about aquascaping!

What do you like most about working at MERIDA Slovakia?
I like being near the latest developments in bike technology, and I like the international aspect and the opportunity to travel to other countries to experience other cultures and form relationships with people who are also into cycling. 

Why should someone come to Slovakia for a cycling holiday?
We have mountains of mountains, endless forests and wildlife (including a few brown bears, of course). So, the mountain biking options are endless. By law, you can cycle anywhere in the forests except in the National Parks, so bikers are everywhere. Then, of course, there are the after-ride treats of fried cheese and beer to be enjoyed.

Where is the best place for MTB, gravel and road riding in Slovakia?
I think anywhere you ride in Slovakia, there are always 'small treasures' to be found in the great outdoors. If I had to pick just one place to ride, it would be the High Tatras, which are our highest mountain range in the North of Slovakia. If you ride there, you have endless iconic views and plenty of climbing to challenge you. 

If you had to recommend one Merida bike to one of your closest friends, which one would it be and why?
If they wanted to ride on gravel, it would of course be the SILEX, if they wanted to do mountain biking, it would be the ONE-TWENTY. If they wanted to ride on the road, I would recommend the SCULTURA.

Given the choice for a little bike adventure (time and money no object), where would you go and who would you like to take along for the ride?
The first place I would love to bike ride is in Oman because of the diverse nature there with its high mountains, flora and fauna, oasis and desert areas. It's a big country, so I guess I would be on my SILEX. I would go in the winter/wet season, so there would be some running water and more greenery. I have read the scenery is amazing this time of year. My other country would be Japan, as they have a cycling route which connects various islands by bridges, so it is a popular cycling destination. I would be happy doing these trips alone, but if my friends could come, I would of course invite them along.

We were lucky enough to get out for a ride with Rado up one of his beloved Slovakian mountains, and we discovered that not only is he extremely speedy up the long climbs, but he really can (and does) ride his SILEX down all kinds of terrain with ease! Working in the family business was his destiny, but he has really made the role his own and takes great pride in the MERIDA brand. This is more than just a job for him, and as he has worked his way up in the company, he is now in the lucky position that he can turn his hand to any aspect of the business with confidence.

For our next interview, we will be heading back to the Czech Republic to meet Karel David, the unicycle-riding motorbike fanatic who is the service and warranty manager. Read more about him in the NEWS section soon.