The latest edition of Bike Europe magazine (issue 1/2026) is now available to read online in our digital magazine section. This edition highlights cautious optimism voiced amid ongoing ­industry doubts. The inventory situation — the big hurdle of the past years — is also stabilising.

United States importers are suffering from whiplash this month after the US Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, only for them to be replaced within hours by near-identical executive orders. What consequences does this all have for brands trying to do business in the US market, is suing a viable option to recoup some costs?

Bikefitting.com is going global with Norwegian BikeFolder, expanding the Shimano-backed digital bike-fitting platform well beyond its initial Nordic regional rollout in 2025. The partnership combines Bikefitting's technology with BikeFolder's "digital bike garage," completing the digital ecosystem for cyclists and retailers.

The total market value in the Netherlands surged by more than 60% in the past 10 years, driven by the rising average retail prices for e-bikes. In 2025, combined bicycle and e-bike sales totalled at €1.533 billion, a 1.3% decline from 2024. Market growth over the past years has masked declining sales volumes. In 2025, the market experienced a further 7% decline in units. At the same time, the average price increase of e-bikes and bicycles combined exceeded the rate of inflation more than twice. To what extent will consumers continue to pay the ever-increasing prices?

As the bicycle industry continuously balances technological innovation, cost pressures, and the need to serve specific target groups as effectively as possible, Shimano offers a solution to manufacturers and retailers with universal CUES components. More than 95 percent of retailers worldwide are already familiar with it.

Shimano started off 2026 by dropping its State of the Nation report, the first since it was discontinued in 2023. This report details the survey results from 25,000 Europeans across 25 nations, and highlights not only the consumer's cycling experience, but also a core shift in strategy for Shimano.