7 Things We Noticed at Taipei Cycle 2025
Set in the global cycling industry’s hub of Taiwan, Taipei Cycle Show 2025 brings together international trade execs with an eye on trends and the direction of the market. What insights could be gleaned from this year’s edition of the key show? Werner Müller-Schell had boots on the ground again for Cycling Industry News…
1. A Harsh Reality Check for Taiwan’s Bicycle Industry
Shortly before Taipei Cycle Show 2025 kicked off, the Taiwan Bicycle Association released new market data — and the figures are sobering. For the first time in years, Taiwan’s bicycle exports have dipped below the one-million mark, representing a staggering 31.3% decline compared to 2023. The eBike sector, once the crown jewel of the island’s cycling exports, suffered even more: exports plunged by 47%. These numbers are a strong reminder of how hard the global cycling industry has been hit post-Covid. And while many markets are feeling the squeeze, Taiwan seems particularly exposed. The mood at Taipei Cycle reflected this reality: cautious, reflective, and searching for new strategies to rebound.
2. Fewer Visitors, Familiar Faces
While the number of exhibitors slightly increased — 980 companies from 35 countries across 3,600 booths — the visitor turnout told a different story. Compared to 2024, the halls of Nangang Exhibition Centre felt a bit less crowded. Though we’re still waiting for official figures, discussions at the fair indicated a reduction in international staff on-site. With tightening budgets across the board and two other major trade shows happening at a similar time (Cyclingworld Düsseldorf at the end of March and Sea Otter Classic set for early April), it seems overseas companies are cutting down on travel expenses. This is a logical step in light of the broader economic downturn. The big question now: will this trend continue at other major shows like Eurobike?
3. Sustainability Takes Centre Stage
Sustainability was everywhere at Taipei Cycle 2025 — not just in product displays, but also in the conversations and forums shaping the event’s narrative. Day one opened with a high-level gathering hosted by the World Bicycle Industry Association under the theme “Pedalling Towards Net Zero.” The forum called for stronger partnerships across industries and governments to boost decarbonization. Day two followed up with the ESG Global Initiative Forum, hosted by the Bicycling Alliance for Sustainability (BAS), which showcased best practices and new tools for ESG-driven transformation. With over 150 attendees and BAS membership growing to 82 companies, it’s clear: the sustainability movement in cycling continues to gain momentum.
4. Green Materials and Products on the Rise
From saddles to chains to entire frames — this year’s show offered plenty of proof that sustainable materials are becoming a top priority for bike brands. Giant unveiled the world’s first bicycle made entirely from recycled carbon fibre: a bike weighing just 2.5 kg. SRAM and Velo are collaborating to re-use carbon waste from ZIPP wheels. Prologo introduced saddles made with recycled materials, while KMC showcased a new “Green Chain.” Thermoplastics also made a big splash, with brands like Igus demonstrating their potential as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional composites.
5. Premium Road Bikes Still in Demand
While the low- and mid-range markets continue to feel the effects of the global downturn, the premium road bike segment remains resilient. At Taipei Cycle 2025, high-end models were prominently displayed across the halls, with major players like Giant, Merida and several renowned Italian brands — including Pinarello, Titici, Colnago, De Rosa and Wilier Triestina — showcasing their flagship offerings. The presence of luxury road bikes was not only visually striking but also indicative of a stable demand in this category.
6. Is 32 the New 29?
A subtle but intriguing reveal at Taipei Cycle 2025: Formula presented a prototype carbon MTB rim built for 32-inch wheels — a potential new standard for mountain biking. Paired with matching 32-inch tyres from Maxxis, this oversized setup hints at future trends in geometry, speed and performance. While still in the early stages, the idea of a 32-inch MTB stirred curiosity among both media and product managers. Whether this gains traction or not, it shows that innovation in bike formats isn’t slowing down — even in a year full of challenges.
7. A Stronger Call for Unity
In keynote speeches, panel discussions and casual conversations, one theme kept coming back: collaboration. With economic headwinds, political instability and growing trade barriers, the cycling industry is facing pressure on multiple fronts. Leaders used the Taipei Cycle Show as a platform to call for a more united voice — one that can advocate for cycling as a solution, not a casualty, of today’s global challenges. From sustainability alliances to trade associations, it’s clear the industry is looking to stand stronger together in the years ahead.
