Throughout the world, millions ride a bike for pleasure or general transportation, and bicycle riding has reached an all time high in popularity. With oil prices now soaring, its no coincidence that bike commuters are taking to the streets in record numbers. In fact, bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, and other economical forms of transportation are experiencing a spike in sales not seen since the oil crisis of 1973. This bodes well for manufacturers of cycling equipment, and particularly well for those who produce products for commuters and frequent riders. With the price of gas continuing to rise, the bicycle market, and the 2-wheeler market in general, represents a paradigm of opportunity. The following news stories elaborate on this sharply growing trend:
Bicycle Sales Are Exploding »"Bicycle sales are near an all-time high with 19 million sold last year (worth five to six billion dollars) -- Michael Graham Richard, Gatineau, Canada - October 2, 2005
Bicycles outsell cars in Australia - sales top 1 million (again) »The Cycling Promotion Fund (CPF), Australia's peak bicycle promotional body, said bike sales totaled 1,247,990 - 30 per cent ahead of the motor vehicles total of 955,229 - June 1st, 2005
Many here cycle to work routinely, because it is fun, it is a healthy lifestyle choice, and it protects the environment. But it is also becoming increasingly clear that, as an alternative to driving, bike riding can make good economic sense.
Will High Gas Prices Spur Bike Sales? »George Dwyer of Washington, DC - May 22, 2006
Bicycles Selling Like Hotcakes in US Stores »"Our sales have almost tripled in the last couple of years," said Bob Ippolito, executive vice president at Pacific Bicycle, the largest bicycle distributor in the United States - August 3, 2005
