As the global bicycle industry gathers in Taipei, economic recovery, trade tensions, and consolidation loom large. Taipei Cycle 2025 will serve as a litmus test for where the market is headed next. Here are five key topics to watch.
The bicycle industry has been on a rollercoaster ride over the past few years. What started as an unprecedented boom during the pandemic quickly turned into a sharp downturn, leaving brands grappling with excess inventory, plummeting demand, and mounting financial pressure. Now, as the industry converges in Taipei, all eyes are on signs of recovery.
Will the destocking phase finally come to an end? How will ongoing trade wars and shifting supply chains reshape manufacturing strategies? And with bankruptcies and acquisitions accelerating, which players will emerge stronger—and which will disappear? Beyond the showroom floor, Taipei Cycle 2025 is set to be a proving ground for the industry’s future, revealing whether the worst is behind us or if more turbulence lies ahead. The Show Daily has identified five major topics that will shape the conversations—and the future—of the bicycle industry.
1. Signs of an Economic Turnaround
After nearly three years of turbulence, whispers of recovery are growing louder—but skepticism remains. The bicycle industry has been in a prolonged downturn, with excess inventory clogging warehouses, sales slowing across key markets, and brands scrambling to adjust their production cycles. Now, with destocking making progress and supply chains becoming more predictable, manufacturers are cautiously optimistic. Yet, the question persists: Is this the beginning of a true rebound, or merely a short-lived stabilization before another dip? Taipei Cycle 2025 will serve as a reality check. The conversations happening on and off the show floor will reveal whether brands truly believe the worst is behind them—or if they’re bracing for more turbulence.
2. The influence of trade wars
After the latest developments in U.S. politics and uncertainty around tariff policies under the Trump administration, global trade tensions are once again rattling the bicycle industry. The weakening U.S. dollar is shifting purchasing power, with European buyers gaining an advantage while U.S. retailers brace for higher import costs. Meanwhile, ongoing tariff threats and shifting trade alliances are forcing manufacturers to rethink their supply chains. The question at Taipei Cycle 2025: How big is the uncertainty in the industry caused by these developments?
3. Mergers, Acquisitions, and Market Shifts
The post-pandemic boom fueled rapid expansion, but as demand stabilized, financial pressures mounted. Overextended brands, changing consumer trends, and lingering inventory issues have created a challenging environment, particularly for mid-sized players. Some have adapted, while others struggle, fueling a wave of consolidation. Taipei Cycle 2025 will be a key moment to gauge which companies are thriving and which are seeking investment or buyers. The show floor will reflect a mix of cautious optimism and underlying uncertainty. Behind closed doors, discussions around mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring will shape the industry’s next phase. By the event’s end, the market’s competitive landscape may already be shifting.
4. Sustainability at a Crossroads
Sustainability has been a core industry theme, but economic pressures are testing brands’ commitments. With tightening margins and shifting priorities, some companies are doubling down on green initiatives, while others scale back costly programs. Taipei Cycle 2025 will reveal whether climate goals remain a priority or if financial realities force compromises. Manufacturers face a balancing act: innovations like low-temperature coatings and recycled materials are gaining traction, but scaling them remains costly. Meanwhile, stricter regulations in Europe and North America add further pressure. Consumers still value eco-friendly products, but price sensitivity is rising. At Taipei Cycle 2025, the industry’s true commitment to sustainability will be on display—not just in marketing but in the materials, production methods, and long-term strategies shaping its future.
5. AI and Automation in Bike Production
Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the bicycle industry, driving efficiency, cost reductions, and smarter production. From predictive maintenance and AI-driven supply chain management to automated assembly, these innovations are no longer theoretical—they are reshaping manufacturing. At Taipei Cycle 2025, expect discussions on which companies are embracing these shifts and how smaller players will compete. The industry is at a turning point: those who leverage AI effectively may gain a lasting advantage, while others risk falling behind in an increasingly tech-driven market.
A Defining Moment for the Industry
A look at current developments shows that Taipei Cycle 2025 arrives at a critical juncture for the bicycle industry. Therefore, the discussions and deals made in Taipei will offer a glimpse into the industry’s future. Will brands emerge from this cycle stronger, more agile, and better prepared for the next phase of growth? Or will external pressures continue to dictate the industry’s direction? By the time the show concludes, the path ahead may be clearer—but it is unlikely to be smooth.