Summary

The global cycling equipment market has demonstrated significant growth, fueled by the rising popularity of bicycles, particularly in Latin America and South Asia. This market is projected to expand further, with a CAGR of 6.9% expected between 2023 and 2033, building from an estimated value of $16.2 billion in 2022. In France, the cycling market experienced a boost during the COVID-19 crisis, growing by 15% from 2020 to 2021, reaching €3.4 billion in value. This surge was partly driven by the electrically-assisted bicycle (EAB) sector's dynamism. Approximately 4% (€136 million in 2021) of the French market expenditure was on cycling equipment, catering to a cycling population including 440,000 club cyclists and 1 million regular sports cyclists. Despite the positive trends, both the French sporting goods and bicycle markets face a trade deficit, emphasizing the market's reliance on imports mainly from Asia and Europe. The French domestic cycling market varies by region, with some cities like Strasbourg and Grenoble showing high commute usage at around 17%, while others, notably Mediterranean cities, lag behind. Safety equipment, particularly helmets, see mixed usage with 70% of the French population supporting mandatory use but only 30% adhering to it regularly. French demand for performance cycling equipment is tied to sport cycling associations, with a particular focus on the youth demographic. Distribution of the cycling equipment varies across France, with sports equipment retailing corresponding to regional demand trends, and specialized retailers holding a significant share of the high-value, technical equipment market. Large multi-sport retailers like Decathlon and Intersport dominate the distribution of entry-level products, while specialized brands like Cyclable and Ekoï cater to the niche, higher-end segment. .**Cycling Gear: A Market in Motion in France** The cycling equipment market in France is intricately linked to the country's burgeoning bicycle sector, buoyed by an uptick in e-bike sales and a reinvigorated passion for pedaling post-pandemic. The refreshed affection towards cycling has translated into an upward trajectory for the cycling equipment segment, with the national bicycle market hitting figures around €3.4 billion, a substantial increase compared to the previous year. Delving deeper, we find that approximately between €120 and €150 million of this is attributed to cycling-specific gear, a sliver of the total pie, pointing to a consumer preference for general sporting goods over niche cycling attire. Globally, the expanse of the cycling and cycling equipment fraternity involves a staggering count of nearly 1,300 million individuals, a testament to the activity's surging popularity. The distribution of cyclists spans four primary personas: the Sports Enthusiast, Sportif, Recreational, and Transport groups, with combined gear needs for the first three categories accounting for nearly half a billion people. Especially noteworthy is the estimation of the global cycling equipment market which stood at a considerable €14-18 billion. In considering the domestic scene, France's cycling equipment market reflects the patterns seen globally. While high sports engagement drives the performance gear segment, recreational uses garner less technical and more economically priced equipment, possibly from Asia. The French market is robust yet dependent on imports, with the industry struggling to maintain trade balances amidst the surging demand for imported cycling solutions. Shifting focus from equipment types to users, the market is diversified across enthusiastic cyclists affiliated with clubs and federations, urban cyclists, and a significant proportion of households that own bicycles for leisure and transportation. The French relationship with cycling is intricate, with differences in urban and rural equipment penetration. Not to mention, the seasonal demand cycles with spikes during the Tour de France and year-end holidays shape the market rhythm, compelling companies to attune their strategies accordingly. Examining distribution networks casts light on the inherent segmentation. Specialty retailers capture the high-end of cycling aficionados, purveying premium, high-performance gear, while sports mega-stores and supercentres cater to the bulk - those who ride less frequently or for shorter spans. The top-tier of gear purveyors, such as Decathlon and Intersport, straddle both realms, offering an expansive range from basic to advanced cycling accessories. In France, the heart of cycling beats in alignment with the nation’s love for leisure.### Market Landscape: Titans and Innovators of the Cycling Equipment Sector #### Decathlon: The Integrated Behemoth Decathlon stands tall as the leading bicycle retailer in France, with a formidable presence that extends across the entire value chain. Known for its in-house brand B'Twin, Decathlon's strategy is a testament to its fully integrated model. Its production site, the B'Twin Village in Hellemes, is a buzzing hive of activity where 200,000 bicycles take shape each year. Sourcing components from Asia, Decathlon marries cost-effectiveness with production efficiency. The brand's reach is further amplified by its expansive network of stores, over 300 within France alone, offering a plethora of cycling equipment for both casual and serious riders. #### Intersport: The Strategic Challenger Intersport presents itself as a formidable contender to Decathlon, with significant strides taken in controlling the entirety of its production chain. The acquisition of Manufacture du cycle, a notable player in France's bicycle assembly arena, has bolstered Intersport's manufacturing capabilities. This strategic move has allowed for more effective inventory management and has translated to a substantial uplift in sales. Intersport utilizes its know-how garnered from the entry-level cycle market to provide a range of cycling equipment to the masses, reinforcing its position in the market. #### Cyclable: The Urban Cyclist's Choice Emerging from Toulouse in 2005, Cyclable quickly grew through a franchising model to establish over 50 stores across France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg by 2020. Targeting urbanites with shops strategically located in city centres, Cyclable has etched a name for itself in the hearts of city dwellers. With a business model that prioritizes passion and lifestyle, Cyclable's franchisee network consists of cycle enthusiasts who serve customers with a curated selection of multi-brand equipment. The brand's community-focused stores and tailored customer experience make it a go-to destination for those who see cycling as more than just a sport or mode of transport. #### Ekoï: The Fashion-Forward Innovator Ekoï, a distinctively French company, excels in providing an extensive range of cycling equipment that includes everything from shoes and helmets to glasses and textiles. Adopting a fashion-forward approach akin to "Zara of the cycling world," Ekoï targets those who seek style alongside substance in their cycling gear. Covering all facets of a cyclist's needs, Ekoï is riding a wave of enthusiasm within the cycling community, offering products that offer

Detailed content

Inforamtion

  • Number of pages : 30 pages
  • Format : Digital and PDF versions
  • Last update : 02/03/2023
Update Details

Summary and extracts

1 Market overview

1.1 Definition and scope of study

The cycling equipment market is a sub-segment of the bicycle and electric bicycle market. Cycling equipment comprises all the clothing and protective gear needed for road and mountain biking activities. In this study, we will consider all safety, comfort and performance equipment for cyclists.

The market for cycling equipment is growing in proportion to the market for bicycles: as users equip themselves with bicycles, they also equip themselves with cycling equipment adapted to their needs. The bicycle market is growing at a steady pace, estimated to grow by 4.29% per year between 2021 and 2026. The most dynamic market is Latin America, with strong recent development, while the largest market is South Asia.

The market for bicycles and cycling equipment is doing very well in France, driven by the electrically-assisted bicycle (EAB) sub-sector. lectrically assisted bicycles (VAE), cycling in France is enjoying marked dynamism, which is largely benefiting the cycling equipment market.

The COVID-19 crisis has not dampened French interest in bicycles and electric bikes, with the industry recording exceptional growth during the health crisis (+43% in two crisis years). For cycle professionals, the COVID-19 crisis has been a real godsend: in their view, the French seem to have reconnected with cycling, and they are observing an upmarket trend for bicycles and cycling equipment that augurs years of growth for this market.

1.2 A dynamic global market

The cycling equipment market benefits from the same dynamism as the cycling market in general.however, it should be noted that cyclists who buy from specialist brands and with specific equipment are the most committed. PwC has conducted a study between **** and **** on cyclists' habits, which provides us with an insight ...

1.3 Growing domestic market

The French national bicycle market is growing strongly, and the Union Sport et Cycle, which brings together the majority of players in the transport and leisure bicycle industry, has published its report for ****. The cycle market represented *.* billion euros in value in ****, up **% on ****.

Evolution of bicycle market sales Frande, ****-****, ...

1.4 Foreign Trade

The specific market for cycling equipment is not categorized by customs referencing systems. For example, cycling equipment may be found marginally in the safety equipment category, in the same way as construction gloves and safety shoes (***), cycling equipment can also be found in the sporting goods section. This is what we'll ...

2 Demand analysis

2.1 The French and bicycles

The market for cycling equipment is conditioned by the market for cycling, so it is necessary to know the relationship of the French to cycling in order to determine French demand for cycling equipment.In ****, the bicycle was still the best-selling means of transport in France, with *.* million units sold (***). However, ...

2.2 Safety equipment

Bicycle safety is a key issue for manufacturers and consumers alike. The central piece of equipment for bicycle safety is the bicycle helmet.Numerous prevention campaigns have emphasized the use of bicycle helmets for cyclists' safety, but many other items of equipment are necessary for cyclists' safety. The road safety website ...

2.3 Performance equipment

In France, the performance equipment market is mainly driven by members of the French Cycling Federation, which covers all cycling disciplines: - Road cycling - Mountain biking - Track cycling - BMX...

In ****, the French Cycling Federation will have ***,*** members. The most popular discipline is road cycling, with **% of members practicing ...

2.4 Cyclical and seasonal demand

The market for cycling equipment and specialized sports and leisure equipment in general is driven by seasonal consumer demand. Let's take a look at the retail market for specialized sporting goods, which includes cycling, fishing and camping equipment.

Sales trends in the specialized sporting goods market France, ****-****, index base *** in ...

3 Market structure

3.1 Territorial organization of the industry

The cycling equipment industry is structured around manufacturers and distributors, and the majority of cycling equipment is imported. The industry's trade balance in **** was in deficit by *** (***). URSSAF lists all these companies and the employees working in the sector.

Structure of territorial production in France :

To find out about national production, ...

3.2 Distribution networks

The cycle industry is compartmentalized according to cycle demand.

Firstly, low-end and mid-range bicycles are used for short trips and leisure. These cycles make up the bulk of the volume. The cycling equipment needed for these activities does not make up a large part of the volume of cycling equipment. These ...

3.3 A market of giants and new brands

Giant multi-sports retailers:Decathlon is France's leading bicycle retailer. Its integrated model is highly effective in the current economic climate. It is active at all levels of the value chain. For assembly, its B'Twin Village production site in Hellemes (***) covers all the needs of cyclists. The company has positioned itself as ...

4 Offer analysis

4.1 Price typology

The equipment needed for road and downhill cycling includes helmets, shoes, goggles, cycling jerseys and protective gear.

Cycling jersey prices:

We're going to compare the prices of the leading cycling jersey brands, using the websites of these different brands as our source. All these brands sell a wide range of jerseys, ...

4.2 Different types of equipment for different types of bike

With the evolution of cycling as a way of life , its forms have multiplied to respond to the desires of users. Today, there are a multitude of different bikes, each with its own specific equipment, making each bike unique. Performance, comfort and safety on all types of terrain are paramount, and ...

4.3 New innovations in the cycling equipment market

The market for cycling equipment is highly conducive to innovation. expensive products, so costly innovations can be highly appreciated if they provide cyclists with significant benefits.Illuminated helmets:Many companies offer to install LEDs on cyclists' helmets to make them more visible to other road users. These LEDs can be connected ...

5 Regulations

5.1 General regulations

Bicycle production regulations (***)

EU safety standards are specific to each product family, and have been transposed into the following French standards:

-NF EN ***** (***)Bicycle accessories: luggage racks;

Compulsory bicycle accessories

A number of accessories are compulsory for cycling, all designed to enhance cyclists' safety. These requirements are communicated by the French ...

5.2 Competition regulations specific to cycling equipment

Road bike racing

To study regulations in road bike competitions, we'll take the regulations for the Tour de France **** as an example.

Helmet and equipment regulations:"During the Tour de France, the wearing of a rigid safety helmet is compulsory, in strict compliance with the technical rules laid down by the ...

List of charts

  • Worldwide bicycle use
  • Distribution of bicycle use in France
  • Sales trends in the bicycle market
  • Balance of trade trends in the sporting goods market
  • Balance of trade in bicycles
Show more Hide

All our studies are available online in PDF format

Take a look at an example of our research on another market!

Do you have a question about this study?   +44 238 097 0676

Latest news

Intersport and Go Sport hot on Decathlon's heels in France - 11/04/2024
  • Stabilization of like-for-like sales last year at Intersport.
  • Increase in sales following the acquisition of Go Sport: 3.65 billion euros, i.e. **an increase of 11.2% compared with 2022.
  • Projected openings: Between 15 and 20 new stores to be opened each year
Ekoï aims to revolutionize the bicycle pedal - 28/03/2024
  • - Weight of the new pedal developed by Pédalissime: 85 grams, compared with 120 grams for competitors.
  • - Pédalissime takes on market giants such as Look and Shimano.
  • - Pédalissime was founded by Jean-Christophe Rattel, head of Ekoï, in association with Raphaël Dalle
  • - The "PW8" pedal has been tested by several professional teams and is homologated by the International Cycling Union.
  • - All pedals will be made in France.
  • - The bicycle pedal market is a niche but global one.
Intersport plans to sell around thirty of its stores - 07/11/2023
  • Around thirty Intersport stores could be sold to Schiever.
  • Intersport is France's second-largest sporting goods retailer.
  • Intersport is a cooperative of nearly 300 entrepreneurs.
  • The Intersport network comprises some 800 specialist stores.
  • Jacky Rihouet, CEO of Intersport, may sell 20 Intersport stores and five Intersport outlets that he owns.
  • Four Blackstore ready-to-wear stores and two Go Sport stores could also be sold to Schiever.
Cycling equipment manufacturer Ekoï sets out to conquer the American market | Ekoï conquers cycling America - 18/10/2023 Creation of the Ekoï brand: 2001 Year of Ekoï's shift to online sales: 2008 (7 years after its creation) Expected sales for Ekoï in Germany: 10 million euros this year, 15 million euros next year Trocadéro Capital stake: 22% since 2020 Number of professional athletes wearing Ekoï: over 400 Textiles account for: 60% of Ekoï sales Number of Ekoï employees: 68 Ekoï's goal: to double sales within 4 years.
Ekoï, a French cycling equipment supplier on the Tour - 04/07/2023
  • The SME Ekoï was created over 20 years ago
  • The Tour de France is watched by over 40 million television viewers in France and 150 million in Europe
  • Ekoï supplies around 500 helmets and 400 goggles per team per season, as well as large quantities of textile parts.
  • Ekoï is based in Fréjus
  • 66 employees
  • 65% of sales generated outside France
  • The company is aiming for sales of 45 million euros in 2023, with a medium-term target of close to 100 million euros
  • Ekoï has been selling its products exclusively online since 2011
  • Helmets are made in Asia and textiles in the European Union, specifically Italy.
Jacky Rihouet, CEO France: Intersport will soon be flirting with sales of 4 billion euros - 29/06/2023
  • Number of Intersport stores: 885
  • Number of Go Sport stores acquired: 72
  • Number of stores to be rebranded to Intersport in the coming year: 50
  • 2013: Year of acquisition of the cycle assembly plant, France's leading bicycle assembler
  • Number of employees: 15,000

Companies quoted in this study

This study contains a complete overview of the companies in the market, with the latest figures and news for each company. :

Décathlon France
Ekoï
Oakley
Specialized
Shimano
Intersport International
Intersport France

Choosing this study means :

Access to more than 35 hours of work

Our studies are the result of over 35 hours of research and analysis. Using our studies allows you to devote more time and added value to your projects.

Benefit from 6 years' experience and over 1,500 industry reports already produced

Our expertise enables us to produce comprehensive studies in all sectors, including niche and emerging markets.

Our know-how and methodology enable us to produce reports that offer unique value for money.

Access to several thousand articles and paid-for data

Businesscoot has access to all the paid economic press as well as exclusive databases to carry out its market research (over 30,000 articles and private sources).

To enhance our research, our analysts also use web indicators (semrush, trends, etc.) to identify market trends and company strategies. (Consult our paying sources)

Guaranteed support after your purchase

A team dedicated to after-sales service, to guarantee you a high level of satisfaction. +44 238 097 0676

A digital format designed for our users

Not only do you have access to a PDF, but also to a digital version designed for our customers. This version gives you access to sources, data in Excel format and graphics. The content of the study can therefore be easily retrieved and adapted for your specific needs.

Our offers :

The market for cycling equipment: helmets, safety, clothing | France

89 €
  • What are the figures on the size and growth of the market?
  • What is driving the growth of the market and its evolution?
  • What is the positioning of companies in the value chain?
  • Data from several dozen databases

Pack 5 études (-15%) France

75.6 € / study
378 € instead of 445 € -15%
  • 5 études au prix de 75,6€HT par étude à choisir parmi nos 800 titres sur le catalogue France pendant 12 mois
  • Conservez -15% sur les études supplémentaires achetées
  • Choisissez le remboursement des crédits non consommés au terme des 12 mois (durée du pack)

Consultez les conditions du pack et de remboursement des crédits non consommés.

Updates

Our customer references

They have consulted our studies Discover the opinions (+500)

Malcolm Vincent
Linkedin logo

Malcolm Vincent

Astoria Finance

Gregoire de Castelnau
Linkedin logo

Gregoire de Castelnau

Stags Participations

Timothé Huignard
Linkedin logo

Timothé Huignard

PWC

Paul-Alexis Kebabtchieff
Linkedin logo

Paul-Alexis Kebabtchieff

BCG

Aymeric Granet
Linkedin logo

Aymeric Granet

Publicis Consultant

interviews & case studies All interviews and case studies (45)

La pépite Interview

BFM Business

Paul-Alexis Kebabtchieff

Boston Consulting Group

Marie Guibart

Kea Partners

Elaine, Durand

Crédit Agricole, Information & Veille

Philippe Dilasser

Initiative & Finance

Anne Baudry

Metro

Amaury Wernert

Kroll (Duff & Phelps)

Smart Leaders Interview

B-Smart

Do you have a question ?
Our team is at your disposal at   +44 238 097 0676