Jan-Willem van Schaik

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.

TAICHUNG, Taiwan - In a circular economy it is often a challenge to find a new purpose or customers for recyclable waste. ZIPP owner SRAM had been looking for a source of the waste which comes from the production of its carbon components, including wheelsets, handlebars, stems and seat posts. This issue was addressed through their collaboration with Velo.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - Taiwan's leading role in the international market for ICT products could play an important role in regenerating the supply chain for e-bikes. In 2017-2018 the country's bicycle industry made a successful transition to the production of e-bikes. The strong focus on this high-value product category gave Taiwan the opportunity to move forward in this innovative market. However, the strong fluctuations in supply and demand has seen Taiwan completely lose momentum in the e-bike market.

TAICHUNG, Taiwan - The excess inventory of Giant Group's own brands in Europe and the US in particular, continued to impact the financial performance of the company. The board of directors reported a 7.4% decline in consolidated sales to NT$71.28 bn (€1.98 bn) in 2024. While all financial indicators were negative for 2024, Giant Group remains positive for 2025.