Despite tepid economic conditions in Germany the nation's bike sector is humming along, and for the first time, e-bike sales have outstripped those of conventional bicycles.
About 2.1 million e-bikes were sold in 2023 compared with 1.9 million bicycles.
Bike sales of all types totalled A$12.6B over the course of the year. The average price for a standard bike was $778 and for an e-bike (including higher-priced cargo bikes) was $4880.
Underpinning the healthy market was the move of customers towards specialist dealers while department stores, hardware stores and discounters slipped to a market share of just 1%.
Customers, particularly e-bike riders, have recognised that to protect their investment, quality products and professional maintenance from established brands is essential.
Burkhard Stork, Managing Director of there German Bicycle Industry Association (ZIV) said: “We are very pleased that bicycles and e-bikes continue to be very popular with consumers for daily mobility and leisure time."
“Overall, the market data shows very clearly that people in Germany attach great importance to cycling in everyday life and in their leisure time and the associated high-quality products,” Stork said.
“Bicycles and especially e-bikes of very good quality and with innovative technology are valued by consumers, as is the advice and service from qualified specialist dealers and their workshops.
"Bicycle leasing via employers has also developed into an important market driver. Experts estimate that today around one in four bikes comes to customers through leasing, which combines many advantages for employees.
Stork said the rising costs of mobility, energy, rents and living standards as well as increasing environmental and health awareness were conditions that are currently and will certainly increase the popularity of bicycles and e-bikes in the future.
"Politicians must not forget the bicycle and must finally fully recognise the potential of the bicycle,” he said.
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