Jan-Willem van Schaik

HUTTWIL, Switzerland - All market indicators have made clear that the bike boom of 2020-2021 is over and implications for the industry can be expected. Renowned Swiss manufacturer Flyer has been hit hard and announced the lay-off of around 80 employees.

SANTA CLARA, USA - To improve the visibility and safety of vulnerable road users in traffic, Commsignia has launched a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) device for e-bikes. The American company has been working with partners in the bicycle industry including Bosch to integrate the technology and expects mass market roll-out in the coming years.

BIELEFELD/ MÜNSTER, Germany - Offering the option to mount a childseat easily was the prelude to the start of an all new brand project for Hebie Group, that houses the brands hebie, tubus and racktime. Aligned with the company strategy and future philosophy, the new brand 'Carl & Marta' was launched at Eurobike 2023.

ZEIST, The Netherlands - Automotive suppliers entering the e-bike market has been a trend over the past few years. Trade shows like IAA Mobility which aims to integrate all mobility providers under one umbrella demonstrates the slight cracks in the car industry's dominance as other forms of mobility successfully emerge. Bike Europe editor-in-chief, Jan-Willen van Schaik explores this further.

PARIS, France - The Taiwanese e-bike brand Besv is entering the European market step-by-step with France being the latest milestone. This was announced at the Pro Days event in Paris. "The launch marks a significant milestone for us as we continue to expand our European presence, now in the thriving French market," said Besv Europe brand manager Bram Reitsma.

OBERWANGEN, Switzerland - To step up its digital experience and expand in the area of connectivity, speed pedelec manufacturer Stromer has opened a new digital unit in Romania. According to Stromer, the Romanian office will complement the development team at the company's head office in Switzerland.

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - A recently concluded strategic partnership brings together the expertise of two companies who create innovative solutions that enhance safety, security and provide valuable insights into the usage of connected vehicles.

HEERENVEEN, the Netherlands - Accell Group's 2022 financial report is a remarkable indication of the huge change in the industry from shortage to oversupply. In the second half of 2022 the value of the inventory hiked by 70% to €936 million. Pre-pandemic this value hovered between €300 million and €350 million.

NEW DELHI, India - The long-term business connection with Bachtenkirch-Interbike based in Möhnesee, Germany gave Indian Hero Ecotech a head-start on the European market. This relationship however, is not exclusive and Hero Ecotech works with multiple partners in Europe. The company is still open for new joint ventures at any time.

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - Irish e-bike delivery fleet provider Moby has taken over the customers of Mechs BV which was started only recently. Mechs took on the rental and maintenance of delivery vehicles after the restart of e-bike delivery fleet provider GreenMo. Now Mechs has also been declared bankrupt.