German Bicycle Market Stabilizes After Pandemic Boom
The German bicycle market, after experiencing a surge in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, is now showing signs of stabilization. While sales figures haven’t returned to the peak levels of 2020, the industry demonstrates resilience amidst economic challenges and shifting consumer behavior. Recent data indicates a slight decline in overall bicycle sales, but a continued strong demand for e-bikes and high-quality sports models is supporting market value.
Sales Figures and Market Trends
In 2025, approximately 3.8 million bicycles were sold in Germany, representing a 3.9% decrease compared to 2024 . This figure brings sales levels back in line with pre-pandemic numbers. Despite the decline in unit sales, the total market revenue remains robust, exceeding pre-pandemic levels, driven by the increasing popularity of higher-priced e-bikes and specialized bicycles.
E-bikes continue to dominate the market, accounting for over 50% of all bicycles sold. Demand for gravel and racing bikes is also on the rise, contributing to the overall market value.
Industry Challenges and Resilience
The German bicycle industry faced several challenges in 2025, including declining order numbers, overstocked warehouses stemming from the pandemic, and a general slowdown in consumer spending. The Global Bicycle Purchasing Index (GBPI) fell below 100 points, indicating a cautious market outlook.
Despite these headwinds, the industry has demonstrated resilience. Manufacturers and retailers have engaged in price negotiations to manage inventory and maintain sales volume. The industry is proving to be more stable than other sectors, such as the automotive industry, facing significant economic pressures.
Regional Growth and Company Performance
Rhineland-Palatinate is identified as a growth region within the German bicycle market, benefiting from the presence of major companies like Canyon.
Bike-Discount, a major online retailer, has experienced growth despite a challenging market environment. The company handles approximately 6,000 parcels daily and has capitalized on bankruptcies within the industry to acquire goods and components at reduced prices. While facing some losses on its own branded products, Bike-Discount has benefited from the overall market dynamics.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Industry representatives anticipate that 2026 will not mark a full recovery, citing continued excess capacity both in Germany and in manufacturing regions in Asia. Bike-Discount anticipates a boost in sales with warmer weather, but acknowledges that a return to consistently high sales figures is not expected in the near term. The industry is focused on international growth and adapting to a “normal” market environment.