What Changed for Max Hartenstern in His 2025 Breakthrough Season?

<p>This week, I’m joined by Germany’s Max Hartenstern, a rider who’s quietly been building toward a breakthrough. Max started out racing BMX before switching to downhill in his early teens, working his way up through the iXS Cups, and eventually finding his rhythm on the World Cup circuit.</p> <p>We chat about what those early years taught him, how he’s evolved his training and bike setup, and the importance of team dynamics in getting results at the top level. Max also shares his thoughts on the new World Cup format, how he’s learned to keep racing fun, and what’s clicked for him this season as he’s delivered his strongest results yet. <em>So sit back, hit play, and enjoy this </em>episode with Max Hartenstern.</p> <p>You can also watch this episode on YouTube <a href="https://youtube.com/@downtimepodcast?si=DvedOnZra9-nxCqa">here</a>.</p> <p>You can follow Max on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/max.hartenstern/?hl=en">@max.harternstern</a> and on YouTube <a href="https:/...