Robert Forstemann burst onto the world scene at the London 2012 Olympics. Not because of his raw talent for track sprinting but for being known as the cyclist with the biggest legs in the sport. With thighs that measure 74cm, he caught the attention of the wider public because of his unique look.
At the 2012 Olympics, Forstemann took home a bronze medal in the team sprint, and also became World Champion in the same event two years before.
The big German also holds the world record for the fastest team sprint, alongside teammates Rene Enders and Joachim Eilers, with an electric time of 41.871 seconds.
Recently, Cyclist caught up with the now-veteran track sprinter ahead of the London Six Day track series this October. We discussed Forstemann's toughest competitor, what gear he pushes around the track, and yes, how big his thighs are, which can all be seen in the video above.
Forstemann also gave us a glimpse at his special FES track rig. Fitted with a 'training gear', the 32-year-old uses a special 52t Quadzilla edition Bespoke chainring fitted with Shimano DuraAce cranks coupled with a 12t cog, specially manufactured to withstand 2,800w bursts of power.
The bike comes fitted with a Heuer five-spoke front wheel and Heuer rear disc wheel. Despite his muscular build, Forstemann uses a narrow 38mm handlebar and an ultra-light carbon saddle.
Forstemann, alongside Mark Cavendish and many more, will be taking to the Lee Valley velodrome track for an event that's best summarised in three words: bikes, beers and beats.
This will be part of the wider Six Day series that begins in London on the 23rd October before culminating on 14th April 2019 at a new event in Brisbane, Australia.
Tickets for the Six Day series can be found here.