Andi, this is your first year with a Gravity Card. What made you get one?
Easy. I did the math and realized how much cash I’ve blown on day passes over the past few years. It added up fast. Last year alone I hit the park at least ten times. With the Gravity Card, I knew I’d break even pretty quickly. Plus, I wanted extra motivation to ride more and keep improving my skills. Once you’ve got the card, you’re gonna use it. And with several parks basically around the corner from me, the temptation is real – sometimes just half a day is enough, and I’m on the lift instead of popping beers on the couch.
Has your riding changed since you got the Gravity Card?
Big time! I’m hitting the bike park regularly now and already planning multiple trips ahead. After this one I’ve already planned a trip to Leogang this autumn – something I never would have done before because of the cost. And now? Every day off is a potential park day.
Even after work, I’ll sometimes check the weather on a whim – if it looks good, I’m out the door. And when I plan vacations, I’m definitely scoping out bike parks nearby or along the route. Right now I’m toying with the idea of trying something totally new and stopping at Bike Park Pohorje Maribor in Slovenia on the way to our summer trip in Greece – without the card, I wouldn’t even consider that.
You’ve set yourself up with a proper bike park setup. What’s part of the package?
My VW Caddy is the basecamp. I sleep in it, plus I’ve got a rooftop tent, a pop-up canopy, a gas stove, a mini-barbecue, a table, and all the kitchen stuff. Everything’s packed in boxes so I can hit the road in under 30 minutes.And no full-on camper van – that was on purpose. I want to keep the setup flexible so it still works for the family. If we suddenly plan a family trip, I don’t have to spend hours tearing things down first.
Speaking of family… A few years ago you randomly joined me for a mellow enduro ride and instantly got hooked. What does my sister think about you practically living in bike parks now?
(Laughs) She’s happy for me! Sure, there’s always a bit of worry, especially when I try new jumps or sketchy lines. But overall, she’s totally supportive and gets why I love it so much. And hey, I promised I’d come home in one piece – most of the time I actually do. Give or take a few exceptions.
Right – didn’t you break both collarbones in one season? What if that had happened right at the start of your Gravity Card year?
Yeah, that was in 2022. Not both at the same time, though – left collarbone in spring, right one in autumn. Two separate crashes, both pretty stupid. Honestly, that exact scenario was on my mind when I bought the Gravity Card. But their policy is super fair: if you get injured within the first nine weeks, you get a partial refund based on how early it happens. First week: 90%, second week: 80%, and so on. So you’re not totally out if you crash early in the season. That really takes the pressure off – lets me ride more relaxed.
Ever tried passing the card on to someone else?
(Laughs) Not really, but once I didn’t make it through the lift fast enough and tried scanning the card again. Instantly got a message: “This card was recently used.” So yeah – using it multiple times in a short span? No chance. Which is actually a good thing – keeps it fair for everyone
How many days have you used the Gravity Card so far?
After this trip, I’m up to 11 days. I always compare the cost to Winterberg, since that’s where I ride the most. A day pass there is €44.50. So once I hit 13 days, the card pays for itself.And I’ve still got months of the season ahead – aiming for at least 20 to 25 days total. If the weather plays along, maybe even more.
So, would you say you’re officially a park rat now?
(Grins) If you say so…
Just asking because my sister said you were wearing a full-face helmet at the breakfast table the other day.
It was new! I had to break it in.
No use denying it – you’re a full-on park rat!
Gravity Card – The Essentials (2025)
-
- Price: €659
- Valid: April 5th to November 9th, 2025
- Access to: 30 bike parks across 7 European countries
- Lost your card? Replacement available with proof of purchase (fee applies)
- Injured during the season?: Tiered refund system: e.g. 90% in week 1, 80% in week 2, and so on
- Where to buy: At participating bike parks or online
- More info: www.gravity-card.com
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
Words & Photos: Jonny Grapentin Translation: Eric Frajria
