AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - With their signature wheels, baskets or colourways, fleets of public bike sharing systems have cropped up in bike racks around Europe in recent years. Their appearance has ruffled the feathers of traditional retailers and big bike brands. But their arrival may be more of a help than a hindrance to the bicycle industry, according to recent data.

ZEIST, the Netherlands - Bicycle rental systems and subscription-based models, like Swapfiets, represent a cycling mobility trend that opened the market for more existing and new cyclists. Until recently, only the number of bicycles out in the streets and the number of users were available. For the first time, the social and economic impact of the trend has also been quantified in two separate market studies by the consultancy Ernst & Young (EY) and the German industry organisation Zukunft Fahrrad.

FRANKFURT, Germany - The e-bike industry is entering uncharted territory. In 2025, brands are no longer just selling e-bikes, they are selling access. The practice of applying after-market subscription fees for premium features or creating tiered pricing structures for e-bikes based on software differentiation has been heralded as innovative by some, and exploitative by others.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Bike leasing has the power to transform Europe's mobility landscape, according to a new white paper from Cycling Industries Europe (CIE) and CONEBI. The report argues that including company bike leasing schemes in European Union policy frameworks could accelerate the EU's transition to clean mobility by reducing CO2 emissions, while driving economic growth and improving public health.

PARIS, France - Bike-leasing company Vapaus Group has announced the integration of France's Azfalte, a corporate cycling company boasting a 250-client portfolio. Calling France "Europe's strongest growth potential," Vapaus Group says it's excited to explore international growth with Azfalte, hoping to achieve one million new riders in the coming years.

NORFOLK, UK - A recent survey by UK bicycle and e-bike dealer Paul's Cycles highlights the growing popularity of mountain bike rentals and bicycle share schemes as an opportunity to turn short-term rental clients into long-term owners.