GfK research in the Netherlands, Germany, France and Belgium highlights four trends in purchasing behaviour and priorities when buying an e-bike. The e-bike is no longer just a recreational luxury but is increasingly becoming a serious mobility alternative that influences daily travel behaviour.
Fatbikes have been flagged by the Union des Entreprises Sport and Cycle (UESC) as the overwhelming source of non-compliant e-bikes on France's streets, accounting for 94%. The union published a report last month raising the alarm on the increasing number of vehicles marketed in France as e-bikes that do not comply with current regulations.
As the world's leading bicycle component supplier, there is no better thermometer for the industry than Shimano. For fiscal year 2025, the Japanese manufacturer reported a 2.7% increase in net sales in bicycle components - a slight glimmer of hope that an industry rebound is imminent.
A recent consumer survey across Germany, France, Belgium and the Netherlands shows distinct differences in purchasing behaviour and e-bike-buying priorities.
The micro-mobility investment fund Fundracer announced an undisclosed investment in Belgian startup Aerobag, which is pioneering ultra-lightweight, compact airbag technology designed specifically for cyclists. Aerobag set out with a clear and ambitious mission: to adapt proven airbag technology from the automotive industry into a form factor that works for cycling.
Belgium in January was the place to be this winter, and not just for the Benelux bicycle industry, but for the global market. Velofollies , beyond capitalising on the Eurobike implosion, is centred in a growing, mature market for both performance and mobility cycling. Although market data will not start trickling in across Europe for a couple of months, figures presented during Velofollies show that Belgium is starting the year on the back of a 7.7% increase in sales volume in 2025. With sales back in the plus and renewed optimism in the local market, it was almost impossible for Velofollies not to deliver this year.
