The European bicycle and e-bike market is currently undergoing a necessary recalibration. Following the surge in demand during the pandemic, the industry now contends with declining production figures, overstocked inventories, and changing consumer preferences. While uncertainty remains, there’s also opportunity—for manufacturers that can respond with agility and control.
A new generation of flexible overhead conveyor systems from OCS is helping manufacturers meet these challenges head-on. With friction-based, oil-free conveyor technology designed for high flexibility and space efficiency, these systems enable manufacturers to scale production as needed without compromising on quality or profitability.
Tailored for mixed and variable production
Today’s bike production is not linear. Manufacturers must handle everything from lightweight commuter bikes to high-end cargo models, often within the same facility. “Add fluctuating demand, seasonal changes, and diverse assembly times, and the need for a truly adaptive system becomes clear,” says Ludvig Sund, sales manager at OCS.
These advanced systems for the bicycle industry are customized based on the operational requirements:
- Product mix (e-bikes, MTBs, road bikes, cargo bikes)
- Output targets and takt time
- Component delivery strategy (kitting, just-in-time, hybrid)
- Ergonomic and space efficiency goals
“This results in solutions that include carriers offering height adjustability, 360° bike accessibility, and optimal operator ergonomics—key to maximizing productivity and reducing worker fatigue,” adds Sund.
Efficiency without expansion
“Factory space is at a premium,” continues Sund. “Traditional floor-based assembly consumes valuable square meters, restricts operator access, and limits future scalability. Overhead conveyor systems solve this by lifting the bikes off the floor, creating a clean, open workspace.”
This enables safer operator access and increased station density without overcrowding, while leaving room for future product lines or automation. “Several of our clients have doubled their output capacity within their existing facilities—without additional square footage or infrastructure upgrades,” says Sund.
Smarter and leaner component handling
Parts logistics can create significant bottlenecks—especially for items like wheels and frames. With integrated storage and sequencing systems, components are delivered overhead in the right order and at the right station, just-in-time.
“This reduces handling time and effort, minimises station clutter around workstations and avoids the risk of errors or missing components,” explains Sund. “Such systems help create a lean, continuous flow that remains resilient to volume fluctuations.”
Technology that meets today’s needs—and tomorrow’s
The technology from OCS Overhead Conveyor System is built with adaptability and sustainability at its core. According to Sund, their key features include:
Overhead conveyor
- Friction-driven (no chains or oil)
- Low noise and clean operation
- Modular and scalable
- Full operator access
Custom carriers
- 360° bike accessibility
- Height-adjustable for ergonomic work
- Integrated component storage
- Saddle or frame connection
“Whether manufacturers are managing a slowdown or ramping up for a new product launch, this technology helps them stay nimble and cost-efficient,” adds Sund.
Flexible solutions for a changing industry
In today’s dynamic bike market, adaptability is essential. With solutions like those from OCS Overhead Conveyor Systems, manufacturers gain the agility to stay productive and profitable—no matter how the market shifts. “Our systems are flexible, ergonomic, and scalable,” concludes Sund. “They support a smarter, faster, and more resilient bicycle assembly.”
This article is sponsored by OCS Overhead Conveyor System.
![OCS hanging solution [Photo Riese & Müller].](https://vmn-bike-eu.imgix.net/2023/01/ocs-advertorial2.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&q=50&w=1773&h=1182&fit=fill)
