Jan-Willem van Schaik

ZEIST, the Netherlands - Bicycle rental systems and subscription-based models, like Swapfiets, represent a cycling mobility trend that opened the market for more existing and new cyclists. Until recently, only the number of bicycles out in the streets and the number of users were available. For the first time, the social and economic impact of the trend has also been quantified in two separate market studies by the consultancy Ernst & Young (EY) and the German industry organisation Zukunft Fahrrad.

UTRECHT, the Netherlands - Cargobikes play a key role in the urban transition to more sustainable mobility. The cargobike is even specifically mentioned in the European Declaration on Cycling when it comes to urban transport of goods, in particular parcel deliveries and shopping. Taking that into consideration, it is remarkable that the International Cargo Bike Festival, on a 2,400 square meter show floor, is the only dedicated trade show organised in Europe.

DONGGUAN, China - Building brand awareness in the e-bike industry is a key part of the Gobao strategy in the coming years. Gobao is an established name in its home market of China when it comes to controllers for light electric vehicles. Since the market introduction of its e-bike drive system, the company has set global ambitions.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - The announced merger between European industry organisations CONEBI and CIE brought together a big group of peers in Brussels. The unification of CONEBI and CIE should allow the industry to put more weight on the table in discussions with the European Commission. On Monday and Tuesday, industry leaders, representatives of the EU's executive arm and lobbyists discussed the future of cycling as a mobility.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - The merger of Cycling Industries Europe (CIE) and CONEBI has come one step closer, with the members of CIE endorsing a change to the association's statutes. The decision taken at the CIE general assembly this week reflects a shared commitment by both organisations to strengthen the industry's collective voice, enhance policy influence and ensure that cycling remains at the heart of Europe's green, digital and industrial transitions.

POZZOLEONE, Italy - Sustainability, production efficiency and manufacturing in Europe spurred investments at the Selle Royal Group in recent years. The Stracciatella project, launched in November 2024, was a big step forward in sustainability, but also in quality control. During a visit, Bike Europe got all the details on this project and more.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - The pressure on Taiwan to align its labour governance with international standards is increasing. The recent United States import ban on Giant Group is not seen as an isolated case. Many firms in Taiwan's manufacturing sectors, which rely heavily on high-intensity, low-wage labour, engage in practices that constitute forced labour, the Taiwan Human Rights Commission said in a statement.

UTRECHT, the Netherlands - Cargo bikes are still regarded as pivotal in the transformation of urban logistics. Unlike the bicycle and e-bike industries, the cargo bike market is primarily business-to-business and new concepts are often developed in collaboration with B2B partners. While cargo bikes are displayed at the fringes of bicycle or logistics trade shows, the market remains highly promising.

LA MASSANA, Andorra - The mountain bike brand Commencal is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Started in 2000, founder Max Commencal focused on designing and producing high-quality bikes, particularly for gravity-focused mountain biking disciplines. How does Max perceive the market today, and what can we expect from this Pyrenean mountain biking pioneer?

CHANGHUA, Taiwan - The bicycle industry in Taiwan is implementing various measures in response to the US blockade of Giant. Also, the country's second largest bicycle manufacturer Merida has stated the company strictly complies with Taiwan's labour laws. Merida emphasised its commitment to taking decisive action to fully align with internationally recognised labour and human rights standards.