Dominik Mahlknecht Walter and Anke Gamper

Roberto Mich – The man behind E-Bike Dreams in Tramin

From passionate cyclist to bike expert

Roberto Mich has been passionately riding two wheels for over 40 years – and this passion is still evident today. Even as a young rider, he was at the forefront of cycling. He became the Italian mountain time trial champion and won the legendary Sellaronda several times. He was even a pioneer in the e-bike world: Roberto took the title at the very first e-bike world championship in 2014.

Despite these successes, Roberto’s priority is not fame, but the joy of riding. He has covered around 700,000 kilometers in the saddle over the course of his life. You can imagine how many stories and experiences he has gathered on all these tours. His eyes light up when he talks about steep passes or new trails.

Professionally, Roberto turned his passion into a career early on. In the late 1980s, he opened his first bike shop, where he shared his expertise on mountain bikes, road bikes, and other items with customers. He also gained valuable experience as a mechanic. This journey from a small shop to today’s successful company reflects Roberto’s love for cycling.

Second home Tramin – where the heart lies

Although Roberto wasn’t born in Tramin, he’s long felt at home here. About five years ago, he moved to Tramin – out of love for the region and its people, and to be closer to his customers. This was an easy decision.

“I didn’t grow up in Tramin, but I feel at home here,”

Roberto likes to say. The surrounding area is truly a paradise for cyclists – rolling vineyards, winding mountain roads, and a Mediterranean climate. Roberto was enthusiastic from day one and was warmly welcomed in the village.

Nowadays, Roberto associates Tramin with much more than just his business. He values the community life in the village and its proximity to nature. Many local winemakers and innkeepers have become not only his customers, but also friends. With his guided tours and bike rentals, he shows guests the beauty of the region. At the same time, he contributes to raising the profile of Tramin and the South Tyrolean lowlands beyond its borders. It’s no surprise that Roberto has even invested in a historic house in the village center. This is another sign of how deeply rooted he is here.

Roberto Mich

E-Bike Dreams – Quality and personal service

“Quality is our strength,” is Roberto’s motto. The standards at his E-Bike Dreams specialty shop in Tramin are correspondingly high, stocking exclusively high-quality KTM bikes. Whether it’s a state-of-the-art e-mountain bike (e-fully) or a comfortable e-trekking bike with a low step-through frame, all with powerful Bosch motors, a classic road bike or a sleek gravel bike, or even e-bikes for children: there’s something for everyone. Roberto’s commitment to quality is evident right from the consultation. He or a team member takes the time for each guest to find the ideal bike and the optimal setup.

The special service approach is also evident when renting. Reserve a bike via WhatsApp and pick it up at flexible times? No problem at E-Bike Dreams. Whether you’re an ambitious athlete or a leisurely cyclist, everyone should set off into the South Tyrolean countryside with the perfect bike and a good feeling. Roberto’s decades of experience inform every tip, whether it’s about bike technology or tour planning. This passion and dedication make E-Bike Dreams something special, because personal advice is our top priority.

Bike guide with attitude and humor

In addition to rentals, Roberto is in his element as a bike guide. With him at the helm, every tour becomes more than just a trip from A to B. It becomes an experience.

“You have to be authentic and empathize with each guest – every person is different,”

is how he describes his approach as a guide. Participants immediately sense that Roberto isn’t a guide who stubbornly follows a standard program. He approaches each group individually, offers helpful tips, and ensures that everyone feels comfortable.

He has clear principles. “Definitely away from traffic and cars!” Roberto emphasizes firmly – his tours consistently lead along quiet paths through nature. He doesn’t experience any hecticness. On the contrary: “slowing down” is one of his favorite words. The landscape around Tramin is simply too beautiful to just rush through. He encourages his guests to stop for a while – whether for a dip in Lake Caldaro, a wine tasting along the way, or to enjoy the view of the Dolomites. This way, a tour doesn’t become a rush, but rather a pleasure ride.

Roberto doesn’t mince words when it comes to e-bikes either – with a wink, of course. “I’d love to get rid of the eco mode,” he says jokingly. “Even with a turbo and full enjoyment!” What he’s saying is: Anyone riding with an electric drive can feel the full power and have fun. Of course, Roberto always pays attention to safety. As a mountain bike instructor and certified guide, he ensures that technique and pace are always adapted to the group. He briefly checks the bikes before every ride – brakes, air pressure, everything has to be correct. Furthermore, he only takes bikes from his own, well-maintained rental shop. This way, he ensures that both rider and equipment are ready for the tour.

Whatever the group undertakes, Roberto ensures that enjoyment and safety go hand in hand. He repeatedly includes short stops – be it at a viewpoint, in a historic wine cellar, or for a group photo at Lake Kaltern. At the end, everyone’s beaming as brightly as the sun. Because anyone traveling with Roberto immediately notices: This is someone who loves his homeland and cycling with all his heart – and this enthusiasm is contagious.

(Interview Erica Furini)

June 2025