What you need to know

Mintel estimates the volume of the UK bicycles market at 2.5 million units in 2018, down -3.8% on 2017. Market value is estimated at £925 million in 2018, a slight rise of 1.6% from 2017. There has been an overall downward trend in volume sales since the middle of the current decade. UK cycling participation levels have also fallen.

There are pockets of strong demand: some established premium bike brands are doing well, and e-bikes continue to set the pace and have huge growth potential, albeit from a low base level. One in five cyclists bought a new bike in the past 12 months, and future purchase interest is strong, but any upswing in the market is likely to be delayed by the uncertain economic environment.

Covered in this Report

This Report covers all types of cycling activity, including leisure/sport, commuting and other uses. In terms of market size and forecasts, it encompasses the UK market for bicycles, which Mintel defines as those machines with a chain and ball bearings. The main product types included are mountain bikes, road, hybrid (and other mixed-terrain bikes), classic/city bikes, children’s bicycles and small-wheel bicycles such as BMX and folding bikes. Electric bicycles, better known as e-bikes, are not included in the market size and forecast, although reference is made elsewhere to sales levels and growth, consumer ownership and interest.

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