Maurice Ballerstedt Joins Tailwind Athlete Team

Maurice Ballerstedt, a decorated cyclist from Germany, now recently residing in Seattle, has joined the Tailwind Athlete Roster! We’re super excited to have him on the team and are already big fans of Wilbur, his adorable training Dauchsund companion.

Can you give us a bit of history into your cycling career and what inspired you to leave the European road cycling circuit, move to the US, and set your sights on gravel and crit racing?

I spent my whole life chasing the dream of becoming a professional cyclist in Europe. After achieving that goal, I realized it wasn’t as fulfilling as I had imagined—it actually felt pretty monotonous. I found myself stuck in a domestique role (support rider), which was never what I wanted.

So, I decided not to take another contract in Europe and instead made the switch to racing in the U.S. My fiancée is originally from the States, which also played a role in my decision. While cycling isn’t as big in the U.S. as it is in Europe, the gravel and crit scene is growing rapidly, creating huge opportunities for solo athletes. With that, my main objectives are winning races and having fun in the process.

What has been the easiest and toughest part about moving to the states? 

It’s pretty hard to say, haha. Seattle is actually quite similar to Berlin, where I lived before. Honestly, the toughest part has been getting the equipment I need for racing. My bike sponsor is based in Germany, and it’s been a real challenge to get everything shipped to the States.

Other than that, the transition has been pretty smooth. I love the people, the country itself, and the food.

What are you top goals for 2025? 

My main goals are Tulsa Tough, Unbound, and the European and World Championships in gravel. Balancing crits and gravel will be challenging since the race formats are so different—gravel races are really long, while crits are much shorter. Gravel will be a learning experience, but in crits, I want to start winning immediately.

Why Team Tailwind? What excites most about joining the team?

I love the products and the people. I'm super excited to join such an ambitious team and push myself to the limit this season.

You mentioned to us before that you have a hidden talent as a barista, what is your favorite drink to make? 

I like all kinds of coffee. My daily go-to is a flat white, and in the summer, I really enjoy affogatos.

Speaking of drinks, we have to talk about your favorite Tailwind flavors.

I like all flavors across the board, so it's hard to pick a favorite. For daily training, I usually prefer the neutral (naked) Endurance Fuel. I didn’t expect it, but it tastes great!

We have to know, how did you and Wilbur find each other? 

When my 2024 season started, my girlfriend and I decided we wanted a dog. My parents knew some people who breed dachshunds and had just gotten puppies. They brought him over the same day.