The Bike Boom Is Still Rolling
The pandemic bike boom saw record-breaking bicycling participation in 2020, with millions of Americans purchasing or using bikeshare programs to get outside. New habits, stimulus income, and lingering concerns about gathering indoors contributed to elevated demand for bikes and bike parts in the US that saw bike shops run out of inventory.
Three years later, the bike industry is hurting - but are people still riding?
Cycling Boom By-the-Numbers
Researchers found that roughly 10% of Americans took up cycling for the first time or in new ways in 2020. The uptick put an additional 33 million Americans on two wheels during the first year of the pandemic's spring, summer, and fall. The new participants spent big, increasing monthly cycling-related spending by more than 25% to $8 billion.
A year later, spending averaged $9 billion per month as inventory rebalanced; cyclists had more price-sensitive options and the option to upgrade their existing bikes and accessories finally back in stock at their local shops.
Spending Settles Back to Earth
In 2022, monthly cycling spending declined to $8 billion, though still considerably higher than pre-pandemic levels. Ridership remains resilient; a survey of the nation’s largest bikeshare networks remains 42% higher than in 2019, which includes aggregate increases in daily trips in New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C., Boston, and Chicago.
As you’d expect, commuters utilize bikeshares in urban centers more regularly. Seasonal peaks in New York and other metropolitan areas broke records in the summer and fall of 2022 as more employers encouraged in-office work and more individuals were confidently vaccinated.
Commuting Drives Participation
While recreational pursuits may have driven pandemic-era ridership, early 2023 data shows the utility of a daily bike ride. While aggregate home-to-work commutes of all kids have declined, researchers say eBike trips for errands and socialization have increased, especially amongst eBike owners. eBikes now outsell every other kind of electric vehicle and provide flexible, affordable micromobility options that cars cannot.
Still on the Move
Even as spending and participation have shown signs of decline in 2023, cycling for recreation and transportation remains well above pre-pandemic metrics. Consistent participation and effective local, state, and federal advocacy have contributed to increased spending on cycling infrastructure. Legislation like the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill, passed December 22, 2022, earmarked $45 million for active transportation projects across the US. These discretionary grants are designed to help build or connect bike trails and across the country, including rural and underserved areas.
Keeping Northern Michigan Rolling
Norte Youth Cycling has helped hundreds of northern Michigan families discover cycling as a family-friendly activity or a vital transportation option. Through bike-centric youth cycling programs and free bike libraries in six counties, Norte is dedicated to keeping northern Michigan riding for the long haul. Learn more about what we do and consider donating to the cause.