The bicycle industry in the
United States sells about $6 billion of bicycles, clothing and accessories each year. The types of bicycles people buy changes as the industry adapts to current trends and develops products to better serve market segments.
Mou
untain biking became mainstream during the 1980’s. During this period there was a surge in mountain bike sales. “Fat-tire” bikes flew out of the bike shops as consumers clamored to try this new sport. This leveled off by the 1990’s. Then Lance Armstrong took center stage in the Tour de France, and Road Bike sales soared.
Today, bike companies and bicycle dealers recognize the need to cater to non-enthusiasts and are working to attract newcomers to the sport. They’re focusing on non-intimidated models, and trying to get more people on bicycles. Also, a new class of commuter bikes has emerged that feature more utility and comfort. In al, the emphasis has come back to comfort, a definite attraction to the casual rider.
Here are some fast facts provided by the “Bikes Belong Coalition” regarding the bicycle biz:
- More bicycles are sold in the U.S. every year than cars and trucks combined. In 2004, 15 million cars and trucks were sold in the U.S. while 18.5 million bikes were sold.
Close to 98 percent of all bicycles sold in the U.S. are imported.
- The two percent (300,000+) that are produced domestically are mostly higher tech, higher performance bicycles.
- The U.S. bicycle exports are increasing in value each year.
(Tom is now 73 years old. He and his family operate Midwest Cyclery in Downtown Wheaton. He is an active cyclist, a Trail Patrol Volunteer for the Morton Arboretum, a Star Patrol Volunteer for the DuPage County Sherriff. , a member of, the National Bicycle Dealers Association, the Warrenville Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission, and is on the Board of Directors of the League of Illinois Bicyclists.)
The Comfort Bike pictured below is a 2009 Cannondale Comfort 4 , a great recreational bike for both the newcomer and the experienced rider. Features knclude a suspension seat post, adjustable stem, front suspension, a very comfortable seat,,