E-bikes power their way into the future

The electrically powered bicycle has arrived with a bang. There are now even electrically powered folding bikes for added fun. The bicycle industry’s innovative spirit continues to come up with new materials and clever product ideas that make bicycling even more attractive – not only as a sporty activity but as a means of transportation. At EUROBIKE, Europe’s leading bike trade fair, a total of 931 exhibitors from 38 countries will present a host of innovations and premieres in Friedrichshafen from September 4 to 7, 2008. Some already established new trends in materials have been fine-tuned for the next round. Meanwhile, transportation researchers are confirming bike manufacturer forecasts of a bright future for e-bikes.

In 2008, unit sales for power-on-demand and pedelec bicycles surpassed the 100,000 mark, as the trend has begun to accelerate. The models are getting sportier, and since e-bikes are primarily used as a short- and middle-distance vehicle, the demand for range is giving way to that for power.

Trekking bikes get even lighter
Still the strongest market segment, trekking bikes are also experiencing a lot of movement. Almost one in three bicycles sold today are from this category. For 2009, the trend toward ‘trekking light’ will continue. There’s a move away from two-wheeled travel companions weighing 18 kg - shock absorption or no shock absorption. Fully equipped, unsprung models can now weigh as little as 10 kg or less. Even mid-range trekker bikes that weigh 13 kg are no longer uncommon.

Easy internal shifting
More about ease of use than light weight, internal gear hubs are showing up on sport trekking bikes. Both the nine-gear internal hub and the continuously variable shifting system are becoming more common. There are also a few pleasant surprises in terms of accessories for everyday bikes. A hub dynamo manufacturer, for instance, is offering high-tech LED in classic aluminum housing.

Whiter than white
The trend toward white is going even further in 2009 with handle bars and front sections increasingly getting the same gleaming color treatment.

Light carbon strongly favored
Carbon continues to be a major theme. No longer limited to high-end racing bikes, the black fiber material is now increasingly present in their mid-range cousins, as well as mountain bikes. Racers’ skepticism about light carbon hardtails has also come to an end. Fully sprung carbon fiber bikes will be predominantly available in the higher price segment for the 2009 season.

Laser-assisted ventilation
The market for accessories and clothing is also very active. New manufacturers are looking for their niche. Mavic with its high-tech range of products that even includes shoes is an example. Cyclists with seating problems can benefit from a joint project between a well-known bikewear maker and an ergonomics expert.  Ergonomically designed seats featuring seat padding that is truly kind to the body and that reflects the latest scientific findings are now a reality, offering everyone a painless ride.

EUROBIKE will be open only to trade visitors and the media every day from Thursday, 4th to Saturday, 6th September, 2008. On Sunday, 7th September, it will be open to the general public from 10 AM to 6 PM.

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