Jan-Willem van Schaik

MILAN, Italy - A fully integrated and almost invisible front suspension fork has been developed by HiRide, a company that is part of the same incubator e-Novia Group as Bluebrake. As integration in road-bike proved to be difficult in the market, HiRide made an successful switch to the gravel bike category.

OSAKA, Japan - In its latest financial report, Shimano reports that market inventories of completed bicycles, especially the high-end bicycles remained at a low level, as strong demand continued. Meanwhile, inventory of entry-level bicycles has increased to a high level as their supply caught up with the demand.

SHANGHAI, China - For the third time this year, COVID restrictions have forced the organising committee to postpone the 2022 edition of China Cycle. At the moment it is unknown when or where the show is going to take place.

HOOFDDORP, the Netherlands - The take-over of Accell Group by KKR and Teslin has entered a new stage now it will be delisted from Euronext Amsterdam as of 22 August 2022. Accell Group will be converted into a private company with limited liability (B.V.). The company also received its first credit ratings from S&P Global Ratings and Moody's.

COLOGNE, Germany - In a public statement, Europe's largest dealer cooperative ZEG, made a strong statement in favour of brick-and-mortar distribution. According to ZEG, "the current trend to focus on more online distribution by well-known brands poses a considerable threat and hazard to specialist dealers."

TAIPEI, Taiwan - In the first four months of 2022, the export of bicycles, e-bikes and bicycle components from Taiwan is showing a strong growth. This was report by the Taiwan Bicycle Association (TBA) during the new product launch event at Eurobike last week.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - As one of the most important speed-pedelec markets in the European Union, the industry was rather worried about the sluggish sales last winter in Belgium. Nevertheless the market picked up in spring and recorded a growth of 26.2% in the first half year-on year.

DENVER, USA - In June 2023 the inaugural edition of the first US e-bike trade show is scheduled to take place in the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. Now sales of e-bikes have finally picked-up as well, the market is ready for an e-bike focused event.

FRANKFURT, Germany - The start of the new Eurobike concept and relocation to the city of Frankfurt am Main was probably an even bigger success than expected by Fairnamics, the new organiser of Eurobike. While the industry rides the high waves of the cycling boom and many voiced their appreciation over the new show location, a lot of industry insiders also expressed worries due to battery shortages.

AGUEDA, Portugal - The joint booth of the Portuguese bicycle industry at Eurobike last week reflected the positive vibe of the country's industry. A prototype on display was entirely built with high-end components, which except for the tyres were all 'made in Portugal'. At the same time, ABIMOTA, announced a record export level for May.