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Cycling Trends for 2026/2027
Gravel bikes are becoming the new all-around bike
What once began as a niche market has evolved into a versatile companion for sports, everyday life, travel, and adventure. The gravel bike is increasingly establishing itself as the modern successor to the classic trekking bike.
32-inch wheels: The next technological leap?
Larger wheels promise more speed, traction, and riding stability off-road. Following initial racing successes, 32-inch bikes could reach the mass market as early as 2027.
E-bikes are experiencing a performance boom
Increasingly powerful motors are shaping the e-mountain bike and SUV e-bike segments in particular. At the same time, the discussion about safety and regulation is growing.
Automatic shifting makes cycling easier
Automatic gear shifting enhances comfort and user-friendliness—especially in city traffic, for commuting, and on e-bikes. Bicycles are becoming more intuitive and more appealing to new target groups.
Everyday practicality is becoming a key selling point
Whether for commuting, shopping, family mobility or or commercial use: bicycles and e-bikes are increasingly tailored to real-life everyday needs and are evolving into flexible mobility solutions for the city. Never before has the variety of bicycle types been greater than it is today.
Bicycle Market: Challenging Times and Glimmers of Hope
At the Eurobike press conference, current market data from the Global Bicycle Purchasing Index (GBPI) was presented. This data clearly shows that the bicycle industry continues to face significant challenges. Geopolitical uncertainties, rising purchase prices, and ongoing margin pressure are shaping the economic environment. At the same time, initial indicators point to a slight improvement in sourcing and the business climate, according to Dr. Ralf Deckers, a member of the executive board at IFH Cologne. According to a study, 70 percent of respondents expect rising purchase prices, 61 percent see a general increase in uncertainty, and 55 percent anticipate continued margin pressure. Placing a stronger focus on the “women” target group could help alleviate these issues. This is the finding of a recent study by Women in Cycling Germany and IFH Cologne. Even if the overall market stagnates, new products designed specifically for women could open up new sales markets. These products could, for example, prioritize safety, comfort, and everyday practicality. This could generate additional revenue of up to 950 million euros.
Technological Upheaval: How Software Is Redefining Mobility
Like the mobility sector as a whole, the bicycle industry is facing a period of profound technological upheaval. Software, connectivity, and digital services are increasingly shaping vehicles, business models, and user experiences. At the same time, the lines between hardware and software companies are blurring as new forms of mobility emerge. Micromobility experts such as Hannes Neupert view this as a development of similar significance to earlier mobility revolutions—and emphasize the growing importance of events where innovations can be directly experienced and compared.
Outlook: Eurobike Concept 2027
Philipp Ferger, Managing Director of the organizer Fairnamic GmbH, explained how the Eurobike concept will be further developed for the coming year. The goal is to align the leading international trade show even more closely with market needs and to further expand it as a B2B platform. “The industry needs a strong international meeting place for face-to-face interactions. That’s why we’re consistently evolving Eurobike—making it more focused and even more attuned to the needs of our exhibitors, trade visitors, and market partners.”
Eurobike Festival – Meet global stars and test ride the latest bikes
The EUROBIKE Festival will transform the exhibition grounds on Friday (June 26) starting at 12 p.m. and on Saturday (June 27) from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. into an interactive experience for all cycling fans. In addition to test rides on the latest bikes and mobility solutions, shows, travel talks, and numerous hands-on activities will ensure a varied program. New for 2026 are a Trail Test Area for gravel and mountain bikes, as well as an Urban Test Area for cargo bikes and small electric vehicles. Other highlights include the Skyline Air Show featuring well-known riders from the BMX and MTB scenes, such as Tobias Freigang and Johanna Nussbaumer. The Drop & Roll Show will bring spectacular BMX trial action to the fair with Danny MacAskill, Duncan Shaw, and Gabriel Wibmer. The traditional Bembelcrit bike race will set the tone for racing excitement as early as Friday afternoon.
Facts & Figures
Trade Show: Eurobike
Dates: June 24–27, 2026
Public Days / Eurobike Festival: June 26 starting at 12 p.m. and June 27, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Frankfurt am Main Exhibition Center
www.eurobike.com