Hello Reader,

During the holidays, we fully close our company once a year. Holiday season break. Everything comes to a halt: no meetings, no orders being packed, and no testrides at our HQ. And that’s good and important. A year ago, when our holiday season break started, I immediately felt that I was exhausted. Not just from the pre-Christmas rush, but worn from a long period.

To make sure this wouldn’t turn into the second burnout of my life – I knew the signs all too well from the first one – I decided to take time off. I didn’t know for how long, but I knew I needed to recover. Otherwise, things would eventually crash, and that helps neither me nor the company. Our team is small – six full-time in the office and three external freelancers – and it was incredible how they managed everything for several months without me. A huge thank you for that, especially to Felix.

While I was away, I was able to work on myself, recover, and actually discover a key piece in understanding myself better. Maybe more on that in 2026. By May, I felt ready again and slowly stepped back into everyday life with new learnings. Since returning, the daily challenges are still there, of course. And the generally tough market situation, with discount battles and unfortunately many insolvencies in the bike industry, doesn’t make things easier. But something has changed within me. I feel better, and I’m deeply grateful for the learnings of the past years.

But enough about me. First and foremost, a huge thank you to my team – you do incredible work every single day. This year, Felix and Sophia were featured in a very cool RAAW Inside Out story. Jo not only runs our logistics but also developed the entire 2026 apparel lineup from start to finish. We had lots of test events again this year, from Reschen to Regensburg, and more testrides here in the Pfalz than ever before – all coordinated by Sophia. Jonas prefers being behind or in front of the camera and was finally able to put a really tough injury period behind him. Oliver is new to the team and has taken over product planning and coordination (and yes, there’s a lot to plan and coordinate for 2026 😉). Aaron is the man behind the scenes. If you’ve noticed recently, our website has become smoother and more intuitive in many places – that’s him. Dan once again optimized pivot points in the 1/10 mm range for something that will celebrate 10 years of RAAW in 2026. And last but not least: usually from his home trails in Sintra, Portugal, Julian shapes the RAAW universe – whether it’s owner’s manuals or logos for a new bike. Thank you Julian, thank you all!

A huge thank you also goes out to you – to our community. 2025 was once again a wild year. Seeing, hearing, and reading where you ride, how you send your RAAWs down the trails, and how much you love what we love is just amazing. Thank you!

With that, we’re wrapping up the year at RAAW. We wish you a wonderful and relaxing holiday season and look forward to seeing you in 2026! But for now, here are a few cool updates you’ll find below – after this long intro in the final edition of RAAW News for 2025. Enjoy reading and watching.

The Jibb LT Tested by MTB-News

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In MTB-News’ big 2025 Trail Bike Comparison Test, the Jibb LT made a strong impression. As the only aluminium bike among four carbon models, it convinced testers with “enduro feeling on trail level,” plenty of composure, and a confident ride that stood out especially on the descents. Here’s the full review.

Homestory - Stevie Schneider

In our latest story, Stevie Schneider shares what’s behind his wild exterior: how an energetic Lycra-wearing rider from Salzburg became a creative freerider, family man, and the mind behind Foolhouse Media – with humor, a “don’t-give-a-shit” mentality, and a love for downhill and loam that continues to drive him. Discover Stevie’s unusual path, his perspective on bike adventures, and what truly motivates him.

Video: DAYPASS — A Day on the Yalla! with Arno Billard

Arno Billard doesn’t just have the best moustache – he’s also an incredibly fast and stylish Frenchman. In his latest video project, the mission was clear: a day pass, and as much riding and filming as possible. The outcome speaks for itself. Awesome video, Arno!

RAAW Apparel 2026 – Christmas Gifts

Just in time for the holidays, our full RAAW Apparel lineup is back in stock – with fresh colors and new items for 2026. Whether for yourself or as a gift for someone who loves RAAW as much as you do, now is the perfect moment to get started on Christmas shopping. Orders to Germany that are placed and paid by December 18th will arrive before Christmas.

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Community Deal: 20% Off the Entire 2026 Apparel Collection

New month, new deal for RAAW Riders: This time, you get 20% off the entire apparel collection. Use the code SHEESH at checkout to redeem the discount. Valid until December 31st.

Current Availability

Stock levels are solid and both the Jibb V2 and the Madonna V3 are ready to ship in nearly all sizes. The only exception: Our Madonna V3 in ‘black’ (Small and XXLarge). The Yalla!! V2 is currently sold out in all sizes and colors. Hit the “Notify me when available” button on the product page to be the first to know when they’re back.

More Info: Jibb V2 | Madonna V3 | Yalla!! V2​

As always, thank you for your support and have fun on the trails!

Cheers

Ruben CEO

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