Bicycles are surging in popularity across America. Bike sales have skyrocketed over the past few years, with no signs of slowing down. Between stay-at-home orders accelerating demand and cycling’s health benefits, bikes have become a hot commodity.

This comprehensive guide takes a deep dive into the bike sales boom. Learn what’s driving the bicycle resurgence, profile today’s buyers, explore industry and market trends and understand the future outlook for cycling’s growth. Let’s delve into the forces fueling record sales in the surging US bike market.

Examining the Recent Spike in Bike Sales

The US bike industry has seen meteoric sales growth since 2020:

• Total bike sales increased 56% from 2019 to 2020 according to NPD Group.
• Over 20 million more bikes were sold in 2020 than 2019 per NPD data.
• kids’ bike sales doubled in 2020, while adult bike sales rose 65% [source].
• E-bike sales in particular grew 145% from 2019 to 2020 [source].

This sales surge extended into 2021 and 2022, defying expectations of a post-pandemic decline. The bike boom is more than a passing trend.

Key Factors Fueling the Bike Sales Resurgence

Several powerful forces are converging to drive bicycling’s popularity and sales:

COVID-19 Impacts

• Gym closures and stay-at-home orders prompted purchases for outdoor exercise.
• Biking allows social distance recreation amid COVID concerns.
• Supply chain issues led buyers to purchase available bikes.

Health and Wellness Focus

• Increased awareness of biking’s cardiovascular, mental health, and weight loss benefits.
• Doctors recommend cycling for injury rehabilitation and mobility.

Urbanization and Traffic

• More people living in cities with congestion and parking challenges turn to bikes for transport.
• Urban bike infrastructure keeps improving with designated lanes.

Environmentalism

• Cycling is seen as eco-friendly mobility over gas vehicles, reducing carbon footprint.
• Governments incentivizing green transportation alternatives.

Technology Improvements

• E-bike innovation expands accessibility for different ages and terrains.
• Advanced bike components enhance performance, comfort, and safety.

These powerful tailwinds show no signs of stopping, promising future bike sales growth.

The New Faces of Bike Buyers

Biking is diversifying beyond its stereotypical enthusiast niche. Today’s bike buyers include:

Young Urban Commuters

From students to young professionals, bikes provide affordable urban mobility. Developing urban bike infrastructure encourages cycling.

Suburban Families

Parents buy high-end bikes and trailers to bike with kids for recreation and errands. Cargo bikes carry groceries and gear.

Outdoor Adventurers

Off-road, gravel, and mountain bikes allow access to trails with specialized performance. Active folks ride for fitness and adventure.

Baby Boomers

Mature adults use electric bikes to keep riding despite age or mobility limitations. Biking caters to healthy, active lifestyles.

Rehabilitation Patients

Those recovering from injuries use stationary or recumbent bikes for low-impact therapy and mobility.

Car Commuters

Drivers facing high gas prices opt for bicycles over cars for short trips and errands to save money.

Aspiring Athletes

Enthusiasts use premium road bikes to train for races, triathlons, and cycling events like centuries.

Biking appeals to wider demographics than ever, fueling massive growth potential.

Profiling the Most Popular Bike Categories

Bike manufacturers offer models tailored to every riding need:

Road Bikes

With lightweight frames, skinny tires, and aerodynamic geometry, road bikes are built for speed and distance on pavement. Drop handlebars facilitate racing pedal strokes. Categories include:

• Entry-level – Factors in cost with aluminum frames and reliable components. Good for new riders.
• Intermediate – Lightweight carbon fiber frames with quality wheels and groupsets. Performance for enthusiasts.
• Advanced – Elite carbon fiber frames and components meticulously engineered for competitive racers.

Mountain Bikes

Durable frames with front or full suspension, wide tires, and upright positioning tackle off-road terrain. Types include:

• Cross country – Lightweight for climbing and pedaling over dirt, roots, and rocks.
• Trail/all-mountain – Balance of uphill and downhill with moderate suspension for technical trails.
• Downhill – Heavy-duty suspension for high-speed descents and big jumps and drops.

Electric Bikes

Integrated electric motors provide pedal assistance to make cycling easier and expand accessibility. Classes are:

• Class 1 – Assist up to 20 mph with pedaling required.
• Class 2 – Throttle control without pedaling up to 20 mph.
• Class 3 – Assist up to 28 mph with pedaling.

Lifestyle and Specialty Bikes

Categories catering to recreational, utility, and accessible riding:

• Cruisers – Casual upright bikes for relaxed riding.
• City/commuter – Practical bikes with baskets, fenders, and comfort.
• Cargo – Heavy-duty bikes and trikes designed to haul kids or gear.
• Tandem – Multi-rider bikes for groups or couples.
• Recumbent – Reclined frame with backrest for comfort.
• Adaptive – Custom bikes for disabled riders.

Options exist for every age, ability, and riding goal.

Notable Bike Industry and Market Trends

Several key trends are shaping today’s bike business and sales:

Supply Chain Bottlenecks

• COVID disruptions caused bike and component shortages unable to meet spiking demand.
• Shipping delays and backlogs lead to low inventory levels at retailers.
• Long waitlists form for popular models and colors.

Direct-to-Consumer Sales

• New DTC bike brands sell online directly to consumers vs through bike shops.
• Greater pricing transparency and customization options.
• Subscriptions allow customers to try bikes before committing.

E-Bike Growth

• Electric bike sales grew 9% from 2020 to 2021 as prices fell.
• Improved battery range and speed expand e-bike versatility.
• More commuters and older riders adopt e-bikes.

Used Bike Market

• Bike shortages drive buyers to used bike platforms like Craigslist.
• Online resellers like The Pro’s Closet emerge offering certified pre-owned bikes.

Smart Bike Technology

• Bikes add fitness tracking, bike computers, anti-theft GPS, and advanced sensors.
• Apps sync cycling metrics and detect maintenance needs.

Innovation across technology, sales models and infrastructure expands cycling adoption.

The Outlook for Continued US Bike Market Growth

Both expert forecasts and market indicators point to an enduring bike boom well into the future:

Industry Expects Growth to Continue

• Forbes predicts commuter biking will rise 77% by 2030.
• Allied Market Research projects the global electric bike market alone will grow over 8% annually through 2030.
• McKinsey sees US bike sales expanding from $6B in 2019 to $12-15B by 2023.

Ongoing Tailwinds Support Growth

• Urbanization and city bike infrastructure development are accelerating.
• Gas prices will likely remain high post-pandemic, incentivizing bike commuting.
• Governments boost cycling investment and incentives for sustainability.
• Health and environmental consciousness will persist as generational trends.

Changed Perceptions Boost Popularity

• Biking is seen as mainstream mobility, not just exercise or kids’ toys.
• E-bikes and cargo bikes make cycling practical for daily errands.
• Outdoor activity boom during COVID sticks as lifestyle change.

Biking has momentum with compelling forces primed to drive sustainable growth.

The Surging Electric Bike Segment

Electric bikes warrant special attention as the fastest-growing bike category. The US e-bike market share is projected to grow from 15% currently to over 30% by 2030.

Several factors are accelerating e-bike adoption:

Expanding Demographics

• E-bikes attract older adults by easing the physical demands of cycling.
• More women riders feel empowered by e-bikes to keep up with male partners.
• Disabled riders gain mobility using electric assist.

Ubiquitous Use Cases

• Commuters value pedal assist in conquering hills and headwinds.
• Cargo e-bikes enable parents to tote kids.
• Mountain bikers tackle tougher climbs and trails.

Mainstreaming Through Retail

• Major retailers like Walmart, REI, and Specialized bring e-bikes to the mass market.
• Test ride fleets lower barriers to trial.
• Attractive financing options emerge.

Tech and Infrastructure Improvements

• Lighter batteries and sleeker designs enhance appeal.
• Cities add charging stations and e-bike routes.

E-bikes demonstrate bikes’ expanding appeal and versatility.

Evaluating the Trends for Bike Shop Retailers

Local bike shops are a cornerstone of the cycling industry. But they face evolving challenges in today’s market:

Benefits

• Bike shortages drive customers to shops providing inventory when online retailers lack stock.
• Maintenance and service needs grow the shop’s customer base as more riders hit the road.
• Fitting and personalized guidance build loyalty and expertise bike stores offer over mass retail.

Challenges

• Price competition from online direct-to-consumer bike brands erodes margins.
• Tariffs and supply constraints make sourcing inventory unpredictable.
• Used bike sales siphon business bike shops rely on.
• Electric bike maintenance requires costly new tools and training.

Strategies for Success

• Focus on stellar service, customization, and expertise.
• Forge close OEM relationships to ensure bike and part allocation.
• Invest in e-bike capabilities – tools, techs, and test tracks.
• Develop online sales channels while leveraging brick-and-mortar advantages.

By leveraging their strengths, bike retailers can thrive amidst market evolution. Educational test ride events and mobile service build brand loyalty with new cycling audiences. Partnerships with fitness brands reach active, affluent customers. The possibilities are unlimited for bike shops adapting to capture new opportunities in the booming cycling market.

Capitalizing on Cycling’s Rise Requires Insider Expertise

The surging bike market offers immense potential for those with the right insights and capabilities. Opportunities exist across areas like:

Component Manufacturing

Seize demand for specialty parts fitting lifestyle bikes. Address supply chain issues through reshoring.

Bike Manufacturing and Design

Introduce innovative designs and models tailored to emerging use cases. Partner with retailers on inventory planning.

Retail and Rentals

Local dealerships combine digital channels with customization strengths. Bike rental fills supply gaps.

Accessories and Gear

New buyers need helmets, racks, lights, and tools. Athleisure brands offer cycling apparel.

Maintenance and Repair

Mobile service networks help riders keep bikes road-ready. DIY tutorials build engagement.

Software and Tech

Offer tools enhancing performance stats, safety, and maintenance like bike computer apps.

Events and Travel

Develop guided bike trips, cycling events, and enthusiast experiences.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Cities, businesses, and communities need optimized bike lanes, trails, parking, and safety measures.

Investment and Banking

Fund promising bike startups and innovations. Underwrite retailer inventory financing.

Are you ready to ride the cycling success wave? The possibilities are endless.

Pedal Into the Future on Two Wheels

Cycling is on an upward trajectory unlike anything seen before. The bike sales boom reflects powerful macro trends making bikes more appealing and accessible than ever. For the bike curious and enthusiasts alike, it’s an exhilarating time.

This deep dive into the surging bike market provided key takeaways:

• COVID, health, and environmental factors converge to drive sales spikes.
• Biking expands beyond niche demographics into the mainstream.
• Categories like e-bikes broaden the market with new capabilities.
• Ongoing innovation and infrastructure improvements ahead signal lasting growth.
• Opportunities abound to capitalize on bikes’ rise across manufacturing, retail, technology, tourism, and more.

The cycling revolution has arrived. Are you ready to join the ride to the burgeoning world of bikes? Let’s roll!