Your Strava code is:
Save 30% on the Pro Aqua Zero Jersey
Shop Mens Shop Womens
SAVE 30% ON BUNDLES
SHOP MENS SHOP WOMENS
Free shipping to United States on all orders above $170
USE CODE:
USE CODE:

Why I ride: Norwegian Rider Christian Edelsteen

An Insight into a cyclist living in Norway and winter training


We recently reconnected with local Norwegian rider Christian Edelsteen, based in Lier just 40km from Oslo who joined us on our AW25 shoot. We asked him about why he rides and how he continues through winter in one of the coldest countries in the world.

When temperatures drop in Norway, they really drop, and that’s when understanding your “why” becomes essential. Christian shared how knowing his purpose helps him navigate the toughest conditions as a cyclist riding not just to race, but to win.

Christian cycling in long sleeve jersey and gilet with rocky landscape and iced over river behind.
Close up of Christian cycling in long sleeve jersey and gilet.

Why I ride?

I have been riding since I was 15 years old (2014). Since then I've been doing my best to make it as a professional cyclist. Every session has been targeted to improve my performance. Racing has been my main motivation behind it all, and the dream has always been to win bike races. So I guess the feeling I chase when I ride is the feeling of improvement, speed and legs to hunt for more.


Close up of Christian in long sleeve jersey leaning on his bike.

What's the real reson behind it all?

That being said, being out on the long rides in good company is the thing I love the most about cycling. Rides where performance or skills doesn't matter. Just friends and community out on the road.

What's the hardest and best part of winter training for you?

The hardest part of winter training for me is definitely the environment and conditions outside when the temperature drops. It makes it difficult to get the desired training load and hours to catch up to the best.

The best part of winter is that you don't have to think about tapering for upcoming events because they're months away anyway. You can just focus on building your foundation in fitness, strength and endurance week after week, months after months. However, I don't love being on the turbo trainer, but it is a necessary evil as a Norwegian during the winter.

Two male cyclists in jackets and gilets with rocky hills behind.

What's Your why?

Understanding your “why” is the foundation of sustainable habits you actually enjoy. When you’re clear on the reason you ride: whether it’s chasing race results, supporting your mental health, or exploring the outdoors, you give yourself a compass that guides you through the entire year. In winter, that clarity matters even more. Knowing your why helps you keep promises to yourself when it’s cold, dark, or wet, because riding becomes about more than speed. It’s about carving out time for yourself when life gets busy, appreciating what your body is capable of, and staying connected to something that lights you up even when it's dark outside, no matter the conditions.

SAVE 10% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER