Rosie Burgin

BERLIN, Germany - Yamaha Motor has signed an agreement with German automotive parts manufacturer, Brose to acquire its bicycle drive unit (eKit) business subsidiary. This strategic step includes establishing a new company, Yamaha Motor eBike Systems GmbH to expand the business in Europe. The formalisation of the operation is scheduled to be completed by June 2025, subject to approval by the antitrust authorities.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - For the second year in a row the Bicycling Alliance for Sustainability (BAS) held a forum during the Taipei Cycle show to update the industry on the progress of the initiatives of its members. This year a focal point was the introduction of human rights code of conduct signed by all 82 members of the BAS to protect workers rights within the bicycle industry in Taiwan. The occasion was somewhat marred later in the day when a protest contradicted the progress being made.

SEATTLE, US - Rad Power Bikes, which began as a US director to consumer brand, has appointed Kathi Lentzsch as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With deep experience in transforming both consumer-facing and B2B businesses, including retail, she will oversee the company's strategic pivot to focus on physical retail.

DÜSSELDORF, Germany - Following European success in Paris, Mechelen and Berlin, French e-bike refurbishment specialist Upway has opened its second UpCenter in Germany. The location in Düsseldorf, strategically chosen for its gateway to western Europe, will facilitate furthering Upway's international growth. The company also counts two locations in the US in its growing portfolio.

LONDON, United Kingdom - The total bicycle market in the UK saw sales drop a further 2% year-on-year in 2024 to a new low this century. This latest drop continues the long post-COVID downturn which began in the second half of 2021. However, the latest figures from the Bicycle Association (BA) suggest there is light at the end of the tunnel.

BUSETO PALIZZOLO, Italy - Lombardo Bikes has acquired Cicli Olympia, one of the oldest Italian bicycle brands, to create a production hub for bicycles made in Italy. Lombardo, founded in 1952 now counts itself as the largest bicycle manufacturer in Italy. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed other than that it was secured entirely through Italian capital.

SCHWEINFURT, Germany - Following a brief take-over by Austria's Pierer New Mobility, R Raymon Bicycles will now continue its journey as a 100% independently owned company under the guidance of founders Susanne and Felix Puello. Since 6 March a new chapter begins for the German bike brand. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by either party.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark - As Scandinavia's primary tradeshow for both consumers and industry participants, the Copenhagen Bike Show 2025, continues to grow. Held in the first weekend of March, this year's edition set new records for both visitor and exhibitor numbers.

MÜHLTAL, Germany - Riese & Müller is setting new standards in sustainable logistics by becoming the first bicycle manufacturer to adopt reusable packaging for e-bike shipments across Europe. Following successful multi-month trials, the BikeBox will now be the standard packaging for over 1,000 dealers in Europe, significantly reducing environmental impact.

DENKENDORF, Germany - In a strategic acquisition, Pinion owner Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP), has acquired the FIT 2.0 business of Biketec GmbH from its owner, the German dealer cooperative, ZEG. The intention is to expand Pinion's portfolio in the core business of e-drives. The financial details of the BRP investment remains undisclosed.