unit 6 assignment 3
Market Percentages of Mountain Bikes Compared to Regular Bikes for years 2012 - 2015:
|
Year |
Bicycles Sold (Millions) 20" + wheels |
Bicycles Sold (Millions), all wheel sizes |
|
2015 |
12.5* |
17.4* |
|
2014 |
12.4* |
18.0* |
|
2013 |
11.3* |
16.2* |
|
2012 |
13.0* |
18.7* |
Total sales for bikes from $6.1 billion in 2014 to $6.2 billion in 2015 (NBDA, 2017).
Source: U.S. Commerce Department statistics, Gluskin Townley Group estimates.
Until 2010, Sales for electric bikes were nonexistent because there was no market for them. Since then, sales have steadily increased giving rise to the weekend bicycling enthusiast. According to Schaik (2017), sales have jumped from $16.7 million in 2016 to $31.8 million in 2017.
The mountain bike is still the most popular bicycle sold in the United States. Uses of the bicycle come in a multitude of uses for the user. Some use it for recreation, fitness, racing, sport, and for commuting (NBDA, 2015). This last use is of interest because of the growing phase of bike sharing programs popping up across large urban cities. This is for those who would rather ride a bike to and from short distances than to use an automobile or public transportation. This industry has become very popular and these programs would be a great fit for E - bike usage. Those traveling to and from work, while getting the exercise they need but not over exerting oneself before the workday or an event.
The market for the E - Bike should be the short distance commuter. Those looking for exercise but not wanting to get sweaty before work. Traveling on congested high traffic roads. Also green enthusiast, those who want to save money and the environment with less car emissions. It is also stated that the best distances to travel are trips of 18.5 miles or less (Electric bicycle guides, 2013).
References
Electric Bicycle Guide. (2013). Who will benefit from the use of electric bicycle. Retrieved from http://www.electric-bicycle-guide.com/who-can-use.html
NBDA. (2015). Industry Overview 2015. National Bicycle Dealers Association. Retrieved from https://nbda.com/articles/industry-overview-2015-pg34.htm
Schaik, J. (2017, September 12). USA E – Bike Market Doubles in Units and Value. Bike Europe. Retrieved from http://www.bike-eu.com/sales-trends/nieuws/2017/9/usa-e-bike-market-doubles-in-units-and-value-10131284