Jan-Willem van Schaik

BERLIN, Germany - Several EU ministries already announced before the 2024 European elections, that regulations on vehicles would be revised, which also lead to changes in the existing e-bike regulations. It instantly raised concerns within the industry whether e-bikes will continue to be classified as bicycles. If not, the industry fears type approval and other restrictive regulations to be implemented for what is currently considered e-bikes.

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - Pon Holdings has made significant strides in 2024 towards enhancing its focus on mobility through strategic investments and divestments. Despite market uncertainties, Pon Holdings recorded stable revenues of €9.9 billion, matching the prior year's results normalised for divestments.

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - Pon has announced the sale of Dockr, its cargo bike subscriptions system to micro mobility supplier Today in shares. "With this acquisition, we are accelerating our vision of making micromobility solutions accessible for all," said Sean Flood and David Touwsma, co-founders of Today.

MILAN, Italy - The anti-lock braking systems (ABS) manufacturer for e-bikes and light electric vehicles Blubrake secured €12 million in funding to accelerate its growth. Founded in 2015, Blubrake subsequently introduced its anti-lock braking system (ABS) technology in 2018. With its next generation ABS, the company contributes to enhance braking performance, improve rider safety, and differentiate their products in an increasingly competitive market.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - Mixed voices were heard about the state of affairs and future of the industry at the 2025 Taipei International Cycle Show. The unpredictable outlook for the business due to the US conflicted trade war has disrupted supply chain at an unprecedented level. The initial expectation was that Taipei Cycle 2025 would indicate the first signs of an industry moving in a positive direction again. While a series of fresh initiatives were rolled out to bolster the industry's role in ESG, advocacy and future mobility, an industry wide increase in the level of orders itself remained ambiguous.

ITTIGEN, Switzerland - Two key topics challenging the bicycle and e-bike industry, sustainability and geopolitical issues are addressed in a new study by McKinsey & Company and the WFSGI (World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry). Is the industry prepared for 2025?

MASER, Italy - The brand relaunch of Sidi after the takeover by Italmobiliare Group in 2022 has turned out to be very profitable. The Italian cycling and motorcycle shoes manufacturer reports a 33.1% year-on-year growth in turnover to €31.7 million.

OGDEN, USA - Scott recently announced the roll-out of a multichannel sales strategy including a consumer direct option. In an official statement, they have now made public that the webshop will open soon. "We aim to strengthen the brand and expand consumer reach to drive more awareness and demand for our dealer network," remarked Hap Seliga, president and CEO of Scott USA.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - The relevance of product award ceremonies at international trade shows has developed into a key communication topic. The Taipei Cycle d&i awards are a fixed event at the opening of the Taipei Cycle Show. After an intensive two-day selection process, Bike Europe sat down with four jury members and discussed how they evaluated the entries to recognise the award-winning innovations.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - The combined revenue of Taiwan's two largest bicycle manufacturers Giant and Merida hiked 48% year-on-year in the first two months of 2025. At the last presentation of the annual results, Giant pointed out that the most difficult period for the industry has passed and is cautiously optimistic about the market performance in 2025. This statement doesn't mean the industry's warehouses are empty again and the market has passed its rock-bottom. However, after hearing Giant and Merida's announcements, component manufacturers have breathed a sigh of relief.