🚴‍♀️ Bike Industry in Chaos 🛠️ Let's Talk This Out with John!

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Please "Like" and also " Share" to keep the conversation going. More insights from my perspective with 30 years of experience in the cycling Industry in the playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLdfUXv0-z1u42bZpCLWmT2VtNW-7AIf2A 15% Off Lithium Products that I used in this video: lithiumautocare.com/?ref=IKnowAGuyBicycles Tools and Products Featured (Affiliate): Shop Tools to Parts That I Use in the "Garage Shop": www.amazon.com/shop/iknowaguybicycles

[@IdahoFatTireBikeFun]

The average speed of the winner of the first TDF in 1903 on potholed rural dirt roads with almost three times the distance of the current TDF, without any support or team, was 16.7 mph on a very heavy single speed bike without brakes while cycling in suits, drinking wine and smoking. The average speed of the winner of the 2024 TDF on perfectly paved roads over shorter distances with huge support, gears, carbon fiber frames, Lycra, perfect diets, performance enhancing drugs, and brakes was about 25.7 mph. If you put a TDF winning cyclist on a $100 single speed cruiser brake bike from Walmart, he will effectively do more than HALF the speed of a $30K TDF winning bike. Average speed is linear but costs are exponential. 💔

[@1DumbSquirrel]

@@IKnowAGuyBicycles nope not going to not hehe

[@scottlong2505]

A poor economy coupled with mid range bikes going for 7000 dollars and top end bikes 11-13 thousand. Is totally ridiculous! You can get top end street motorcycle for that. You will never convince me the same amount of research and development and manufacturing going to a bicycle to make it cost that much.

[@993mike]

Totally agree. The slowing consumer and the outrageous price increases are keeping people from upgrading, especially when you consider the steep drop in resale prices for bikes only a couple years old. So many bikes sold during COVID are sitting in the garage unused just like Peloton bikes, so pre owned is the smart play now.

[@rg3965]

Not sure I agree on 'the economy"...but do think inflation matched with overproduction and the Covid effect... And EBikes selling for less than a mid range aluminum steed.... The industry has done it to themselves.

[@Bill-e-Goat]

Yeah, I bought a stop jumper about eight years back for about 3200. I just bought a SURRON instead of a new mountain bike.

[@garetthartman5014]

The economy is fine, the problem is like you said, 7000 for "mid range" bikes, which were 2500 5-10 years ago. Greed is the problem, people are still spending tons of my, the economy is fine

[@unconventional_health]

Used bicycles are pretty reasonable right now. Ive never bought new.

[@johnwindsor9069]

The industry has been riding on high, way overpriced bikes for way to long. A mid tier bike should be no more than 2-3k, top tier 5-6k. A big reset is definitely needed.

[@patmaweini952]

Also they have run out of new genres to invent/exploit. Fat bikes, gravel, e-bikes, etc. You can use a cyclocross bike for gravel, etc

[@mitchberger2691]

They will back to a 2x marketed towards older riders.

[@TheRimBrakeGuy]

Somehow marketing (surprised Pikachu face) destroyed the industry. I am still happy riding my 2018 Oltre XR4 with alu/carbon rim brake wheels with no issues. Ever since the disc brakes came to play on road bikes prices went through the roof. Ridiculous really. Don't see me paying 9k+ to get a new bike.. F this, prefer to renovate something in the house, or take care my family and dogs.

[@jseevers81]

I bought a new 2019 kx450 Mx bike for 7000 that’s what I told the lady trying to sell me a turbo levo for 6000.

[@ValiRossi]

$6000.00 for a road bike and $60,000.00 for a pickup truck. It won't end well.

[@Heblackthovoter]

Maybe don't charge fuckin' $10,000 for a POS mid-grade bike for starters that might not drive new riders out of your shop... just A thought.

[@softcolly8753]

How long do they expect people to use a bike for that price? I have a 15 year old hardtail mountain bike, it was mid to high end at the time. I would happily upgrade but they forced us off of 26 inch wheels.

[@localride51rivertrail37]

Yes, you’re right. It is worth noting, the big corporations are driving the overpricing. Not the family owned small business bike shops.

[@Justonegear100]

I've been riding and racing bicycles for 4 decades. The cycling industry has been gouging the consumer for four decade. They think we'll pay any price for their products. The day of reckoning is finally here. 10-12 K for a high end bike. Ridiculousness !!! You can buy a WR450 for less and every part is proprietary except the tires and chain. Bicycles are cocktailed out. Your frame with everyone's parts on them, pay 10K for a bike and it's not work 5K in 4 years or less. The crash is coming!

[@timsilva1944]

Exactly! That and the constantly changing "standards" on wheel sizes, axles, head tubes, handlebars, BB's etc. Making things obsolete in short order. I rode an older Suzuki dirt bike for many years that I bought for $1600. I recently bought a KTM 500 with only 20 hrs for $7k. Then there's crazy expensive golf clubs that have no moving parts whatsoever.

[@manchesterexplorer8519]

@Justonegear100 For example:It's amazing what some people pay for a CNC machined aluminum handle-bar stem . Aluminum in its raw form is inexpensive, and CNC technology has been around since the 1990's. I recall all the Ringle machined aluminum parts during the 90's that were very expensive, as at the time they were considered hightech. It's now 2024 as there's nothing high-tech about CNC machined parts, but they're still way overpriced as if it's still 1994 and most of the parts are made overseas for literally pennies on the dollar . Unlike the 1990's parts made by Ringle that were very likely made in the USA.

[@fallenshallrise]

The wheel size thing is interesting. When everything was 26” kids could stretch to ride an adult bike and everyone else up to very tall could use the same bikes. Now everything is a 29er with 30” wide bars which doesn’t really work for many people.

[@manchesterexplorer8519]

@@fallenshallrise No offense to your comment , but I've been riding MTB's since 1990 with the old geometry and 26er wheels and bikes in general since 1980 at 4 years old. The old 26ers are very harsh to ride in the woods as the 29 inch wheels with wide tires set too a low PSI simply roll over everything . The geometry on a modern bike is much more relaxed so you're not cramped up and hanging over the front handlebar which is very sketchy going down a hill. The wider handlebars also help dramatically with stability and steering as well. I still own a 26er , 1992 Kona Hei Hei titanium bike thats top-speced , although I only use it for city and rail trail riding . After riding a modern MTB , you want nothing to do with a 26er in the woods . Most kids these days want the SE type bikes such as the Big Ripper with 29er wheels and modern geo.

[@thunderbird3694]

I will NEVER buy an ebike and majority of those who do were not avid cyclists

[@evanshaw17]

I am 75 an ex professional racer and a lifelong cyclist and a research methodologist what I see is happening with the bike industry is that it became too expensive to buy bicycles. The profit margins were huge and they were going to blow it at a certain point regardless of the economy, but then we had the end of Covidand people are doing things besides cycling and that’s where their money is going so I think they caused it all by themselves by having prices become so huge. That was a giant huge mistake should never happened. Bicycles are absolutely unbelievably expensive. Absolutely ridiculous.

[@johndunbarwoods]

Just picked up a 90s era Fuji mtb for $60. Put about $150 worth of upgrades on it and it's the most fun I've had on a bike! I would imagine there are others like me who are sick of the crazy prices when there's simple tech out there that's still enjoyable and functioning

[@Mark.G475]

Amen. Or buy a 5 speed yellow 1970s Schwinn for 30 dollars at a garage sale. New inner tube's and tires I'm king of the road.

[@The_Blessed_Cowboy]

I'm still riding my 20yr old Jamis Durango. I've put $2000k in that bike over those 20yrs. I just rode said bike at the Revelstoke bike park a week ago and outrode my wife on a specialized Demo. It's a hard tail with Fox 32s but it rips on the berms and jumps table tops like a bmx.

[@scotthofland8858]

When I walk into the local bike shops most of the inventory I see are the $6,000-$10,000 road bikes. In the last week I’ve gone to five shops, and one - ONE - had a $1300 “entry-level” road bike. Everything else is at the $5k+ level. THAT is the problem.

[@recyclespinning9839]

A mass produced high quality bike frame and components should cost at most $2k complete bike . Most people are not "cyclists " they're just using a bike for weekends , summer. Everyone should ride , not just "cyclists." The other big problem is biking is fun when it's safe, not when there's no place to ride. Are kids wanting to ride bikes today??? That's the BIG question. Us older guys have multiple bikes already.

[@javiersmith2216]

I like how disc brakes are being forced on people who buy bikes to commute. In my city you lock those bikes up in the stand that other bicyclist use. Those disc brakes are going to be hit and knocked out of alignment by someone else locking up their bike on the same stand of neighboring stand. Guaranteed

[@ds94703]

As an old guy who rides 120 miles per week for fun, I agree. I like my old school cfr bike with rim brakes, max 25mm tires, and decent wheels. I don't need $10k Pinarellos, DI2, or hydraulic brakes that leak fluid. Tubeless tires are great until you get a ripped tire from hitting bad cracks or potholes. My other pet peave is the lack of wide shoulders to ride on. Cars and huge pickup trucks driven by macho guys who couldnt ride a beginer bike are trying to scare the crap out of us or kill us as more people are "sharing" the same old deteriorating road.

[@ds94703]

The last issue is road raging idiots who treat bicyclist like subhuman insects because we can't do 50 mph on a 2 lane country road.

[@TK-nc3ou]

I will spend my whole life spending less than 1k dollars for a bike. There are so many nice used bikes out there😊

[@NoNotAChance]

The problem with the bicycle industry IS the bicycle industry. Vastly over-priced componentry and bicycles is an issue that will cause things to collapse sharply. When you can buy a motorcycle cheaper than a mid-range ebike you know something is wrong. A particular issue with the ebike is the lack of servicability, which to be fair should sort itself out with the new EU regulations. Across the MTB sector, which does also effect the road bike area is component pricing. I will use bearings as a simple example - a MTB swingarm bearing kit is about 5-10 times the price of buying bearings from a bearing supplier, plus the quality supplied is usually low to mid range rather than decent quality. Compare simple components - tires, chains, brake pads etc against motorcycle stuff and the numbers do not add up. When it comes to MTB, the manufacturers chop and change designs with little or no reason - except trends. 26" wheels - 29" wheels - 27.5" and now 29/27.5 mullet. Each change has a PR campaign behind it, then a few years later they change to another format with yet another PR campaign.

[@andyramsey2187]

I’ve been a bicycle enthusiast since the mid 80’s and the new bikes I see today are totally overpriced. I have 3 bikes, 2 from the 90’s and one a frame I built with old 90’s components. Unless you are a pro buying the new stuff will not make one faster. It really boils down to the motor. I worked in a bicycle shop for years and I would see this all the time when people would think if they spent enough money they could ride like the professionals. Training makes you better, not a 7,000 dollar bike.😊

[@KevinKimmich44024]

I think we're at the end of a decades long economic/industrial cycle. The bike industry, tech industry, house builders, car industry are making stuff nobody really wants, needs, or can afford. At the same time, Chinese manufacturers can compete directly with western companies. Plus, at least in the bike industry, there's basically endless high quality used bikes and components available at 1/10th the cost of new stuff. I've been riding and racing road bikes since the late 1980s, but I probably won't ever buy a new road bike and I probably won't pay some mega-premium for new components again.

[@keithnewton1966]

The board of directors think they can force customers to pay the high end price by not producing the lower end bikes in volume. Same thing at the big three auto makers. The marketing brain washing that’s been going on for decades is over.

[@junee_ooo]

Yup, and not just bike and auto, we see this in so many others. Phone, personal and household electronics, PC components, etc. Just absolutely gut out the low and mid tier to nonexistent or undesirable levels, and charge extra premium for upper end.

[@tenspeedtears]

Just checked Giant’s site. TCR Advanced pro 105 di2 $5700 / Ultegra version $7000 There is the problem and these companies are still unwilling to address it…

[@stuhennessey9013]

My shop is doing well but I see the concern for future product availability especially in the transportation bike sector. That is our focus in Seattle and when we are not repairing bikes we are advocating for more bike infrastructure and transportation plans. If big companies like Shimano focussed on changing the US transportation system and building infrastructure it would make our products indispensable. Instead the focus is on new products for niche markets of racing and extreme sports. Where's the market?

[@elbowspeak]

What's your shop here in Seattle?

[@bmxscape]

why would a japanese company have any influence on the usa transportation system or infrastructure lol the usa makes up 4% of the total world population

[@ds94703]

Shops are all backlogged for repairs which are getting expensive. $300 for a BB overhaul, etc. But that still is a bargain compared to going with new bikes I can't fix myself.

[@Frostbiker]

The "Porsche dealership vibe" is such an accurate description. I bought a Trek commuter bike and felt completely out of place at the shop. Roadie culture feels so exclusionary to the beginner, but it doesn't have to be. Regarding bikes for beginners, I think they still ship overgeared. If the lowest gear is anything over 25 gear inches, it is not suitable for a beginner. Most of us are fat, have poor cardio, and the hills we need to tackle are just as steep as the ones the Type A skinny roadies are riding.

[@rollopost]

A lot of volume goes into those piece of shit beginner bikes. Second hand market is flooded with them no one can give them away. There is a lack of quality mid range bikes that are usable and have resale. I hope for some brand and variant consolidation and more volume into decent youth hard tails and commuter bikes.

[@paulmcgee8226]

So genuine. Thanks for the insights. When I worked at REI, I used to send people to other shops all the time. And they would come back and see us later. Totally works. I knew which shop was best for wheels, cross, fancy road and tri, suspension service, roof racks and the like. Keep spreading the love.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@fbtd2456]

Greedy manufacturers think they can charge as much as possible because biking is popular. Why are prices so high for basically steel tubes, gear and rubber? Car manufacturers and others are also gouging. Time to be humbled.

[@javiersmith2216]

Not only has the retail price increased far faster than inflation, the cost of manufacturing has fallen. Carbon frames are cheaper to manufacture than steel or aluminum. Carbon wheels are cheaper to manufacture than alloy. Electronic derailleures are cheaper to manfacture than mechanical because they have fewer parts. Everything is designed to ripoff consumers. Propietary forks, stems and seat posts. All these companies do is stab their consumers in the back for their loyalty.

[@nicksfishroom915]

I cracked nearly a dozen mtbs back in the 80s and 90s and had a new ride every year at last. That would be un affordable nowadays. I'm 60 now and am stoked on the diy ebike scene. There is no way I'd pay 7-10 k for a new mass market offering. The industry has become a cash sucking racket. I do my own mechanics and can get the parts I need delivered as fast as a local bike store can. Sadly, things have changed and there's almost no reason for me to darken the door of a bike shop. I used to frequent all my local shops.

[@bradscott7994]

I don't want to mortgage my future for a new bike, so I will continue riding my old bikes until the industry once again prioritizes the ride over the bottom line.

[@evanshaw17]

In addition to my previous comment, the whole idiocy of the disk break change they are totally in completely ridiculously unnecessary. They add complexity weight they’re noisy. They’re a hassle to maintain and they add to the cost of a bike for no good reason. They’re not an improvement they’re not needed, in fact, it’s just another example of how they’re gonna correct something until it breaks so to speak. I’ve cycled down roads at 70 miles an hour in a pack of 200 racers in Europe. We didn’t need them. They’re not necessary and in fact, I hate them and do others if you don’t have them perfectly adjusted incredible noise and they’re a pain in the neck. This is an example of what’s happening with the industry you improve it.

[@charlespadgham9664]

I do not agree Mountain biking mountains in BC Canada disc brakes are a must, with moisture rain slush etc. rim brakes are a joke also modern geometry of the bikes these days, are very helpful. but the prices of the bikes is a down fall and a complete money grab .

[@darryljordan647]

It isn’t the technology, it’s the *motivation* to ride. Many people ride for many reasons. People ride for their own reason to help them get further ahead someway than if they used another mode of transportation. But if the cost of cycling exceeds the cost of other modes, then the low-cost appeal of bicycles disappears.

[@rg3965]

And add to that access. In many areas the forest service has been purposely underfunded for trail build and maintenance. So now they've begun charging access fees. Those without means can find even this small barrier an issue.

[@BlockheadLabs]

I tried buying a new bike for the last year. Even with the discounted pricing, I was unable to find a MTB at a price I was willing to pay. Eventually bought used at the correct price. Prices need to come down 50% before I will again buy new. Until prices come down, brands lose, shops lose, and riders lose.

[@streetplaya3929]

I just started doing bike ride events this year and needed a road bike. I picked up a used Raleigh road bike from the 80s in great shape for $280. It has been fun to ride and I can hold my own with my friends that have new road bikes. I couldn't justify spending $1000+ on a new bike.

[@50whatnomadtravelnursemtb5]

Down from what? the extreme over priced COVID prices? Now just heading back to normal in my opinion. EVERYTHING has skyrocketed, it can't be sustained. Lets look at the bright side, people are thinking twice about "upgrading" there already great but "old" 2021 fox fork for an over priced and somewhat better(i don't think so at all). People will continue to do what we used to do, ride a bike until it broke.

[@dorolo]

I got a new bike for 130€. Exactly, a new bike for 130€, with 2 wheels, seat and everything. Is also working. There is no excuse. Asking for 3000€ or 10.000€ for a bike is already to much. I do hope this companies go bankrupt and get with them this stupid trend making a luxury object from a simple bike.

[@raptordriver7340]

My bike is a 2015 model and I have not had any thought about upgrading. The price of top end bikes are ridiculous! At my age, I've slowed down and have accepted that riding is about enjoyment and not about the gear. Until the price of bikes comes down to how it use to be... I'll ride my old rig until it all falls apart!

[@sharethefootage1088]

A few months ago, i bought a Trek checkpoint for $3,000. At 56 years old, that's also the most i ever spent to buy a car. The car goes faster and with less effort.

[@jamesmclaughlin2813]

To put it plain and simple , at my age , the bicycles that are durable and strong are my choice . With the market , parts seem to be driving the whole scene. I'll ride a heavy tour bike with durable parts before riding a road bike that is F.O.R.D. Mind you I will check , and torque things weekly. Note: some of these bikes are made for failure. This wasn't the same in the 1970- The 1990's. At the cost of a mid grade bicycle, there should be durability and function w/ minimum repairs from normal riding. Albeit , chains wear out ,.. but weaker and thinner chains wear faster. So,....maybe simple and durable would sell more ,.....just my thoughts on the subject.

[@royanderson3478]

Hi there 😊. I'm 60 years old and was in and out with cycling. The last 15 years I got back into cycling daily 7 days 365 mainly for fitness, and you really see health benefits. I presently have a single speed and a BMC Road Bike (7 k). I'm sticking with the SS Bike and rather enjoy the low cost of maintenance. $500 Bike is all you need. Enjoy life, folks . Be safe 🙏 ❤️ 💙

[@royanderson3478]

I've thought about splurging on a Specialized SL8 Di2 Ultegra 10-12 k.Then I woke up😊 from my dream 😳. I'm not racing or thoughts of being a world professional cyclist in Europe. I'm 60 not 19 . Life is short 😢 💔

[@BengalDiscBrakesMich]

I think the bikes I drool the most over are rebuilds. Take an old frame and clean up the recyclable parts, and add some new parts like a brand new headset and stem, front fork, brakes, wheels, and with a "warp of snow, woof of flame" you gotta a new sweet ride.

[@timdowney6721]

Many products today are clearly designed to be replaced in just a few years. Corporate greed and consumer status-chasing lead to this. I will say this: Buying a $12000 bike for your mid-life crisis is still miles better than a $100K polluting pickup or sports car. 🤣🤣

[@jamesmclaughlin2813]

@@royanderson3478 My newest Bicycle is a '22 Kona Sutra DeOre mainly with some Tectro brakes . It's a good long distance , and fairly reliable tank of a touring / gravel bike. Mainly chain replacement w/ regular chain testing. The older bikes I have are from the 1980s and still run beautifully. Functionally a Schwinn Traveller has more durability than the Sutra but the Sutra is just more fun. I haven't driven in over 8 years ,.....so it's all good.

[@Hugo_Rocker]

A few years ago I bought a used Peugeot DA 40, modular bike, complete with a "roller" training attachment. I love it and get so many that's cool comments. It rides around in the back of my car and when I see a cool rail trail, out it comes. I have other bikes that I love, but right now I feel like I did riding my Stingray!

[@darryljordan647]

How has your market changed? 20-30 years ago the bike advocates were young middle-aged adults trying to get by fresh out of college. Now, we’re becoming senior citizens. How has bicycling appeal to newer generations and how has the industry made it possible for the younger and poorer adults to afford bikes? Automobiles are starting to look more cost friendly alternative ground transportation.

[@jerryyoung6494]

To get my money… I don’t want to change oil in my bike I don’t want to charge my bike I want to be able to get my bike in the car which might mean taking the wheels off. I don’t want that to mess up my brakes or anything else. I want better than I need components that fit with the above (105 is good, use to like ultegra but too expensive now, could never justify duraace) I just feel like the stuff I don’t want has jacked the prices up as well. The LBS has a moots I’ve been drooling over. (Titanium was mentioned in video). But it is loaded with complications I don’t want and priced at $15,000. I know moots is boutique but …

[@50whatnomadtravelnursemtb5]

at the rates now you can buy used bike dirt cheap then buy another one when it needs parts, lol

[@XBKLYN]

Buy a Lynskey Ti frame and build it up as you like.

[@joejones2700]

Alll the bikes I own are were bought used. I took older bikes and upgrade with better components from the generation when they were made. Older bikes that still are well made and give me hours of enjoyment. The local shops do a great job keeping my old bikes running great. Prices for older used is affordable.

[@Navigator-apex]

Yesterday I walked into my local shop (large in size) to buy 2 new tyres and I was surprised to see no one but myself in there. I am in Australia so I think the same issue exists here. Exorbitant prices are keeping people away from buying given crazy cost of living here.

[@SuperAnatolli]

Prices going through the roof. In the good old days with 3x drive trains, a cassette was appr 25$. now a 12 speed cassete is 150$. For the cheapest one. Just as an example. And weight of (mountain)bikes has gone up dramaticly. A typical XC bike today weights 2-3 kg more than ny 15 year old Ibis Mojo, with the same amount of travel. And almost only 29" bikes aviable, with often ridilculs geometry for the type opf riding I do. But when it comes to types of riding, the MTB sport has drifted from something you do improvised, on the trails you have nearby to something that is manily done i bike parks, on prepared trails. And bikes has gone from quick and agile to something supposed to go more or less in a straight line, slightly down hill and then take the lift or shuttle up again. So, simply, the (mountian) bike industry has moved away from the activity I am doing. And it is obviously not me who is left behind. The industry went forward and expected the custumers to follow along. But to many potential custumers did not. And the industry does not understands that so they bring out more expensive and overbuild products that very few needs.

[@edmundas919]

Agree. Bikes became more specialized, so you need different one for different type of riding. I myself in the market for the new XC MTB to ride city/gravel/trails but cant find anything suitable. 1X MTBs with "progressive" geometry are lacking top gears and too upright for long distance riding and gravel bikes are no go for sandy trails with roots, soft washboard gravel roads and stairs and curbs in the city.

[@Techwonderland]

Walmart’s Ozark Trail $250 gravel bike and $400 MTB. Maybe not assembled the best, but hold their own. Trek, Giant, Specialized, etc. Where’s their beginner equivalent?? 2x MTBs for $800? That’s still not attainable for the average parent or kid.

[@rickpaulos]

Most bikes at walmart wear out in about 500 miles. Super low quality hubs and derailleurs and brakes combined with very poor assembly, often with no grease in the bearings. Those bikes are no bargain when you factor in life span. A 20 year old Trek/Giant/Specialized can be bought used for less and will hold up for decades more.

[@the_derpler]

Imagine if we fixed our infrastructure so it wasn’t so car centric. Imagine how many people would feel safe enough to ride instead of drive. That would lead to a boom. right now just riding in many places in the US is an extreme sport.

[@rickpaulos]

You don't need or want a $10,000 carbon bike for local commuting and shopping trips. A 20 year old Trek 800 or Giant Boulder will do just fine.

[@the_derpler]

@@rickpaulos True, but many will want to get something fixed somewhere. Not everyone is a person who wants to fiddle with tuning the canti brakes on a second hand bike they got from craigslist like we are.

[@ds94703]

Now we're talking. Fix the roads , build out shoulders, and force cars and trucks to slow down and yield to cyclists.

[@javiersmith2216]

I think someone needs to start a trade association. Then the trade association should write down specs for a 9/10 speed groupset. The specs should be for pull ration, teeth spacing, stem and seat posr diameter, derailleur hanger/brake mounts and then market the specs. Imagine if "universal bike specs" were adopted by the industry. Then anyone could manufacture parts. Consumers wouldnt be tied to a single manfacturer. Parts could always be found. After writing down the specs, the trade association would have to market them. I dont think it would cost alot of money. It might be hard to find some early adopters. But i bet you would be surprised. This would also encourage new manfactures to jump into the mkt.

[@darryljordan647]

How has the cycling culture changed over the years? No one wears tie-dyed t-shirts anymore except at throw back parties. How has the industry and local cyclists adapted to a younger culture? What can cycling do to avoid the tribalism of politics, sports, brand and frame-styles that divides the cycling movement?

[@cyclingskills]

great conversation and video. Better Bike infrastructure would be a massive unlock for the entire industry.

[@davestambaugh7282]

I helped by refusing to buy a new bike every two years. I have two bikes. one is fourteen years old and the other is twelve. At seventy eight I imagine that these two will last me until I can no longer replace a worn out chain.

[@andrewclarke9817]

Where is the $500 entry level mountain bike? That is what people want a dependable mountain bike that is off-roadable at 500 bucks.

[@gregcharland]

They are out there but they cost $750.

[@resynthesizer4565]

My '94 KHS Comp without a front suspension was about $700.00 (in 1994) . Good quality true temper steel frame, Shjmano LX. 23 lbs or thereabouts. That's about $1500.00 now. We've been spoiled by cheap consumer goods. Mostly from a country that starts with C.

[@javierrodelo7352]

There is the Giant ATX for about $530 new, but you have basic tech… 27.5 wheels, freewheel hub, no taper head tube, rim brakes, external cables, and 3x7 drivetrain. 🤔

[@andrewclarke9817]

@gregcharland yep, and many new consumers will not spen over $500 for an entry level bike

[@andrewclarke9817]

@resynthesizer4565 in1994 what about 2024

[@germanbeer2466]

Disc brakes and electronic shifting is SO EXPENSIVE

[@MikeBodo]

And is not necessary for 95% of road and gravel cyclists. There needs to be a movement to make bikes simpler and lighter again.

[@scooterchannelanddoityoursel]

Disc brakes are the biggest scam ever, no one needs them, they create great problems and are expensive.All the people who sell disc brakes should be ashamed.

[@charlespadgham9664]

@@scooterchannelanddoityoursel I guess you never mountain biked in the rain and slush on the steep terrain,

[@katiesays]

I just noticed that the Rubaix I purchased in March went up $500. Same bike. No upgrades. $500 more just because. That’s crazy. It was expensive to begin with.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Right, it's like they are not seeing the issues here.

[@AGoogleUser-h2r]

Bicycle safety state wide. Bike shops need to voice and support and recruit legislators. More places to ride safe=bigger bike sales.

[@GarrettReynolds-uh9vj]

The business of price gauging and poor quality is coming to a head😂

[@markpeterson8978]

We have the same question over and over in our shop, Do we buy and sell 2nd hand bikes? We are selling a bunch of e-bikes but that market will get saturated over the next few years. Service is our bread & butter but if we carried used bikes and found a reasonable way to purchase used bikes that left some meat on the bone we would be able to satisfy a demand that is defiantly there. Great show Sir. Cheers - M

[@jerryyoung6494]

If service is the bread and butter, the used bikes would help build a customer base and help the service business as well. I say that as an uneducated customer

[@BrentNinedorf]

Seems similar to the golf industry. This led to a big direct to consumer market because irons have gotten crazy expensive new. Would recommend the high end bikes be on a longer product cycle. Maybe every two years or three years. Entry level ones could be built and then upgrade saddles and other components to make the stock offering better in subsequent years. PING does this with their product releases. Usually a bigger design change in models and tech instead of minor tweaks each year. Golf got bigger during the ‘VID but they could see a downturn from the beginner customer too by pricing things too high and push people to the second hand market as well.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Thanks for sharing!

[@barrettwalker5294]

You guys touched on a lot of good points, that said americans for the most part are overweight and would rather take a pill than exercise and eat right. Big Pharma is a huge problem and a huge negative influence on our population. The younger people grew up playing video games and not riding bikes that much. Yes they might go to the gym but it maybe a social thing and not an exercise thing. The economy plays a huge role in this as well. College graduates thousands of dollars in debt and no job outlook. Let's face it our government does not care about the average persons health, they allow Big Pharma and our Agriculture to put stuff in our food supply that's killing us and making us unhealthy. It's up to the individual to choose Health. Why not look at other countries who have a more healthy population and ride bikes more? Why not teach our children the importance of exercise and diet? I'm a boomer and I participated in exercise programs throughtout most of my education. Not ANYMORE? Polititians complain about the cost of healthcare, while they are responsible for the state of our health! Thank You Both.

[@lopez_wa]

You raise important points about health, the influence of Big Pharma, and the need for better education around exercise and diet. I completely agree that many factors contribute to our overall health and lifestyle choices. However, when it comes to biking, safety is a major concern for many people. I lost a coworker because of a driver who was looking at their phone-someone with a history of bad driving. My coworker was simply waiting at a stop sign when this inattentive driver smashed into her and her child. Tragically, she didn’t survive, though her child thankfully did. People often choose what feels easy and safe. If we want more people to bike, we need to ensure that our streets are safe for everyone. This means holding drivers accountable, improving infrastructure, and fostering a culture where biking is not just an option but a safe and accessible one for all.

[@barrettwalker5294]

@@lopez_wa Agreed, I’m a mountain biker and I think riding your bike on the road is way more dangerous. Not just for cyclists but for everyone, people just need to put their phones down and concentrate on driving. Accountability is Key, Excellent point.

[@Kosmonooit]

Bikes and parts /accessories have become severely over priced. You can get a decent moto for less than a fancy branded mtb. Prices do not reflect material value

[@Azav312]

I had my father's trek 12 speed from the 80s, I had a trek mountain bike since the 90s. I decided to look for a new road bike for this summer. Walmart had $250-300 options. Trek's cheapest option was a $1000 domane. There was nothing trek offered in between. $500 would've been my sweet spot.

[@justcommenting4981]

Bike sellers(including REI and other big stores) need to start lobbying hard for bike infrastructure. Car sales jumped because infrastructure was MANDATED to make it viable and other forms of transit were made measurably WORSE. You can't win a national fight with car, gas, and bank companies but with the help of big labels (like Giant) it is possible to put pressure at the local level and over time create a systemic change. I had to go into a retail store to get my bike as a new rider as an adult because I didn't know how it would fit and ride. Bike shops have an advantage because physical experience is valued, especially I think for new riders. The main barrier to new riders though is infrastructure. Next is price.

[@realvaughnfelix]

I feel like the inflation problem is a big piece of the puzzle. And also, brands need new riders, not hiking existing riders would upgrade or get another bike... their ads need to focus on the average person choosing bikes as their sport

[@downtownbicycle]

There is a lack of leadership in the bicycle industry and being that the ownership of the brands are not dealer driven anymore makes for a bad mix. What I am feeling as a small family shop is a environment that is not focused on building long term partnerships. Also when the brand ownerships are from a different country that becomes a problem because it is hard to gauge all the markets, that on top of there being way to many options and none of it helps new riders because they are priced out of the dealer options. Also the middle class is hurting and that is a huge percentage of bicycle shop customers.

[@thomashines8]

The problem is a Rival or 105 bike shouldn’t be costing 8500. That should be getting you Red or Ace… You can go direct to consumer all you want but if you don’t lower your prices what’s the point? Canyon isn’t killing everyone in their prices any longer. Still better but not great. Specialized put stuff on sale then turned around and made 2025 bikes more expensive than 2024.. how does that make any sense!! Trek is making you buy their top end to get anything worth a jump and then is 10k. All these companies in the US and Canada starting up their own bikes isn’t helping. There is too many new bike companies. Then again their prices aren’t any better. If you have the opportunity to buy a Giant/Trek/Specialized at $7500 then why would you buy a start up companies bike at the same price? These smaller companies need to be more cost effective and they just aren’t. All this shows the consumer is forcing the bike industry to reset. For example you can find SRAM Force full group sets for $1500 but if you want to configure it on a bike said company wants to charge you $3k for that option… you have to at some point move product or bikes..

[@lastpme]

I think the local bike shops have too much inventory which they were forced to buy to carry certain brands in their shops. Then those major brands are killing those local bike shops by selling directly to the customer. Amazon is also killing the bike shops since people who like to work on their bikes can buy their parts on line vs buying them at their local bike shop.

[@rtaylor1105]

When a bike is more than a used car...you all have issues, starring with greed...it sure isn't the consumers, it's you, the manufacturers, and your poor business decisions. The snobbery does not help

[@icabod9345]

How did bicycles get priced over $1000.00 dollars? I'm surprised the bicycle industry hasn't gone completely belly-up with pricing like this. One should be able to purchase a decent bicycle for $500-$900 dollars. Anything over that is just ridiculous!! If the bicycle manufacturers stay on the "high-priced" track, they are toast. The vast majority of people just want a reasonably priced, decent bicycle and do not care about racing. If you really want to sell bicycles, KEEP IT SIMPLE!! No hydraulic brakes. No disc brakes. Give me rim brakes anytime. In fact, just bring back something like the Schwinn Varsity with trigger shifters and a selection of handlebar styles....bulletproof.

[@50whatnomadtravelnursemtb5]

even in the 90's 500-900 was a decent bike but by no means top of the line.

[@nationsnumber1chump]

In terms of what you get for higher end, my 2013 Rabobank TCR SL was 7 grand new and the SL now is actually cheaper which is crazy

[@bicyclelife7088]

$1k is cheap. My Kona Process X was $6k.

[@joejones2700]

I understand pricing for Mtb that are used seriously on technical downhills and rough trails need durable frames and components but alot of people like to just ride bike trails. Do the really need the latest and the greatest with a $4000 plus price tag. Bike shops have limited selection with cheaper priced bike inventory. I see the ebikes have been making the majority of what you see in the shops. Also limits to size selection. Buying a bike today definitely a challenge for the pocketbook.

[@charlespadgham9664]

I guess you are not a serious mountain biker. I agree the prices are ridiculous, but I could not imagine riding a mountain bike with rim brakes, dropper post, and modern geometry

[@a.m.5973]

You need to look at what the bicycle is competing against. For commuting in a mostly flat city like metro Boston, there are electric scooters, cyclists, motorcyclists, public transportation which includes rental bicycles. Rental bicycles with a good distribution is cutting into the bicycling industry here. One does not need to purchase a bicycle when there is a blue bicycle with a subscription plan costing less than $150 annually (the most one could pay up front). There is no maintenance required; park a bike and forget about it - don't even care about theft as it's not a concern. Electric scooters are amazing in this city. I see people of all ages riding them. They are easier to store than just a bicycle. And, they're not nearly as expensive as an e-bike. For recreation, steel frames with carbon fiber forks are becoming more popular. They are durable. Guaranteed to get hit by a car commuting. Joy riding into the city with a carbon fiber frame is risky with all the poor roads and drivers that lack awareness; there are too many distractions such as other drivers and pedestrians. And then there is the cost of living. A lunch with a burrito as a main in Cambridge costs at least $20. It's a very hard sell for Trek that is near fresh pond parkway when rent is high, cost of living is high, and the only place to store a fancy bike is in the bedroom.

[@edreid6109]

One good thing for high gas prices, bringing back cleaner modes of transportation

[@weekenddistractions]

Seems to me that the best thing that could happen for mid-drive e-mtb sales is for them to be allowed on the trails. I have one picked out. I have the money, but here in S AZ, they are not allowed on virtually every trail. How do you make the sales when the buyers can't use them? Being in my mid 60s, some assist up the big hills would be most welcome.

[@DaveEPie]

Here in Prescott the national forest trails are all marked no e bikes-but a lot of people use them on these trails. No one really cares about that. Just be respectful of other hikers or horses. My buddy is 70’s been cycling his whole life. He rides a e bike on the single track here. All of the shop employees ride e bikes on those trails also. Arizona has a high level of much older people that cycle. I am not going to stop them or say anything if they are on a e bike. Just go out and have a good ride -don’t go blasting by hikers.

[@weekenddistractions]

@@DaveEPie I think you are saying the reality of the situation, but I'm disgusted government doesn't understand this reality and changes the policies. It seems they have to be drug through a process that wastes everyone's time.

[@harryv6752]

Prices these days for bikes and components are ridiculous. I don't have anything special. In 2019, I bought a Marin hybrid for about $500 (which I have made into my road/gravel bike), a women's Marin hybrid for $300 for the wife (which I have made into my bike since riding just wasn't her thing - women's small frame and kinda smallish for me - I'm 5' 10" - but that thing is so darn fun to ride), and a Ghost Kato hardtail for about $600. Did some upgrades on all 3 bikes with new and used parts over these handful of years and have been riding them since. Thought about picking up maybe a full sus a couple years ago or getting a new hardtail. But glad I didn't. I don't race and don't compete so those 3 I've got have served and continue to serve me well for on and off road.

[@geob3963]

The more electric cars, the higher the gas prices. The higher gas prices, the more appealing bikes and electric vehicles become. The more electric vehicles sold means further advancement and lower cost of e-bike, regular bike and motorcycle tech and materials. Cheap graphene and lighter more powerful battery chemistry are right around the corner. Los Angeles just passed a law when a road is repaired, bicycle lanes are added. If car culture LA can do it, your town can too.

[@NeverTakeNoShortcuts]

They are going to go down with the ship. The profit model historically on bicycles was very very low until the ultra premium bikes came along and then they got more paperable profit margins on bikes. They are never going to let go of this model because that's the way corporate thinking works.

[@anthonynazzal1958]

Part of the overall issue I see is with kids bikes. Let me explain. Kids are the future of the industry, regardless of what discipline they ride. But MOST big name brand “kids” bikes are priced at insane levels, or, they don’t have an offering for at all. I wanted to get my son into mountain biking 2 years ago at age 9. Bike needs basic fork, hydraulic brakes, decent entry level gears and wheels/tires - 24” The only thing specialized had was the kids rockhopper for $1700 (sale for $1300), trek doesn’t even offer anything, and nearly anything else in stores is a boutique expensive bike. Or, I settle for $500 and get something from a big box store like dicks, and upgrade most of the parts. Giant was the only brand I found at the time (and Norco but Norco was overpriced) that offered all of these things, and was $650. (Norco was $800). I can see $500-600 for a bike like this at the upper end of the spectrum. A full suspension possibly up to $1000 But big brands like trek not even offering anything or specialized being $1500+!! Come on. The industry needs to shift a bit of focus to kids and teens.

[@joansev3257]

Its time for the bike industry stop stealing from consumers.... people are getting tired of being robed

[@bobmajew53]

High-end bikes are selling here in Spain but I'm a Home-mechanic and buy medium priced bikes and upgrade them, like my Cannondale Trail Six which is now a e-mullet XC with dropbars, SRAM 2×10, X0 & X9 derailleurs for example. Only original equipment left is the Suntour XMC30 fork and front wheel, the XLC suspension seatpost and Selle SMP Hybrid saddle are especially nice and with the Ritchey 35mm 0° stem and VentureMax handlebars its a joy to ride. Bike shops would change €300-400 extra then there's the TRP Spyre dual-piston calipers, JagWire compressionless cable housing..... things that add-up but can be done at one's leisure, like the 180mm Shimano Ice Technology rotors.

[@localride51rivertrail37]

The three points are exactly right. If there is a path forward for the sport at all, we must build the community, lower prices, and lobby for safety and infrastructure. There must be an attainable point of entry non cyclists. All the points you mentioned are on the nose. We are in the uphill grind and all the aspects have to be addressed at the same time. The reality is any level ground is far down the road.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Thanks for sharing!

[@SpeedDemonExpress]

21:40 aoh man, I remember being a kid in a bike shop in the 90's. The variety of brands was awesome. Give the consumers what they want.

[@blizzardskier89]

35:39 is going to be really hard for anyone to put a lot new out for the next year or so, it seems like a good time to really stretch that R&D budget for the next year or so, put a pause on "new" product releases, spend 2025 mostly on iterative upgrades to help burn through the covid surplus on parts, frames, etc, and build anticipation for a big 2026 product update, just in time for a lot of the COVID bike purchases to be hitting their upgrade cycle.

[@idrissamorehouse322]

I'm a bike and e-mobility design enthusiast - I've had multiple really bad vibe experiences at multiple bike stores -since I'm a therapist I was able to actually talk to the staff once they realized I wasn't "the average" consumer and the economic stress was at the core especially because people can shop and feel at a store but then half will buy a cheap knockoff online -- all the profit executives were pocketing they should've been lobbying and improving the riding environment- now its at an ultimate choke point - when that happens YOU HAVE TO LITERALLY BACK EVERYONE OUT OF THE CHOKE POINT and then slowly let people Starr funneling through - I went shopping and would have bought but everything I liked for an ebike was $500 more than I could afford - so I said "I'll wait and then buy used" nothing can fix this accept a full reset = which means probably a naturally occurring 3-5 yr down time

[@mikeg8630]

Simply an inventory glut. I understand my personal needs might not be the popular needs, but I think the future going forward is allowing the customer to build their bike online and get exactly what they want, either delivered to their front door with light assembly or picking it up at a local shop. I realize we're already doing that, but it can improve.

[@David-e2n6t]

The bike industry is probably a good indication on whats happening in the general economy

[@fernandom6811]

maybe more people should ride to work, shops etc! And get the amazing benefits! Eg health, fun, exercise, environment!

[@George-Kliavkoff4Big12]

Bike shop mechanics have always been condescending, but go enough and talk about the local trails, new tech, or local municipal ordinances regarding bike riding and you can bypass that snarkiness. I have three bikes; each bike is serviced at different bike shops so I can support as many local shops as I can. All the mechanics know me and know my bikes. When I tell my wife I'm going to the bike shop, she knows I'll be gone for a couple of hours. All she tells me is not to spend too much (as I'm known to come home with new pedals, grips, etc.) and NOT to come home with another bike (ha ha). She's made peace with my passions because knows some guys go the strip club, some go the bar. I go to the bike shop. ha ha.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Thanks for sharing!

[@dalefrolander3583]

I'm 60, retired, and just ordered a Salsa SLX Carbon ($5000) for only $2200. It should be in in a couple of weeks. I can't wait to go riding.

[@rickpaulos]

Getting that Salsa from ROC or PRC? Thanks for buying american.

[@romma11]

cool that's in a territory 15y ago bike like this run for ... makes me want to buy one now too ;)

[@Corbots80]

Is what was completely predictable happening? Yes. So many new bikes were sold to new riders during Covid. And now all those bikes are on the used market. Add the inflated prices from companies thinking the market is the same as it was 2-3 years ago. Plus actual inflation... Like I said. Completely predictable.

[@SpeedDemonExpress]

These manufacturers need a reality check. They got lucky with a buying boom because people were bored. But bikes have been way overpriced for a long time. They are building the bikes overseas to make more profit instead of passing those savings to the consumer. They have these bikes priced as if they were USA made when they aren't.

[@Hahehhwgajshah72726..]

I bought a $80 used hybrid bike that will take me to the same places a brand new one worth many thousands will take me and I have as much fun. You have to have rocks in your head to pay thousands of dollars for a bike.Better your money than mine I guess.

[@cheezy-rider]

There are three main hurdles to people using bicycles as a primary form of transportation. The first is effort. People don't want to get all sweaty on the way to work. That is being solved by e-bikes The second is inclement weather, so some way of making a bicycle weather proof would have to be developed. the third is safety and infrastructure and the money to create it won't be forthcoming until the other two are solved.

[@BengalDiscBrakesMich]

PON is a really important player in this whole pricing game.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

They own over 50 cycling companies...

[@KandidKanuck]

Playing the long game is excellent advice. If people cannot get into cycling because they cannot afford a semi-decent bike, there are going to be fewer cyclists out there in coming years. If bike stores carried a few bicycles that could compete price wise with those in big box stores, then customers would not be as intimidated to walk in the doors, and they could learn the differences between various price points. Even if they walk out the door with the cheapest bicycle, at least they are now more knowledgeable and they may very well be back for an upgrade in the not too distant future.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

That is true, and this really opens the used market for bike shops to those who can't afford new ones. This is mainly my business model, and I help so many get their used bikes up and running and by providing great-valued used refurbished bikes to start out with. I have had a significant return on customers upgrading because they just fell in love with the sport, and they have a guy to guide them on their journey.

[@rosomak8244]

My neighbour bought recently a mid-range Bianca carbon frame bike for some semi serious money. As an experienced rider, clocking in plenty of kilometers in over the years, when seeing him around, I even gave him a piece of back stay protector, so his chain would not slap and damage it. I recommended to him that he should buy something more fancy for that purpose later and apply it as soon as possible. His response was: "A Ferrari is not supposed to be covered by stickers." People like that are out there.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Thanks for sharing

[@PuffinPass]

When the pandemic hit and everyone decided that a bike was the answer to their boredom the industry hit a high point for sales. Now everyone who wanted a bike has one, some even stuck with it past the pandemic and continue to upgrade bikes as they go, most fell off though. During that time the industry only saw the climb and not the inevitable fall off so they expanded and produced as much as they could because...well...this will never end right? During that time they also jacked the price of a bike and parts up to ridiculous levels because at that time people would pay it, now with the economy doing its thing again people aren't as willing to spend that kind of money so freely. Most are upgrading their current parts and holding onto frames longer. The used market went through the roof as well but is now seeing a return to fairly normal pricing again, but people who overpaid during the pandemic don't want to lose money or don't understand how quickly depreciation sets in even with upgraded bikes. This is nothing more than a large scale reality check IMO...don't get greedy and this sort of thing will work itself out, stay greedy and you will be a memory.

[@The_Blessed_Cowboy]

I'm ok buying a 2yr old used downhill from the resort for half the price. They're well maintained, the tech can tell you everything about the bikes history and most often they just need new brakes and a suspension rebuild.

[@goprolou9208]

i NEVER believed in paying full price on expensive bikes.... growing up and see everyone replacing parts on no matter what bike they bought .. this is why i always built my own bikes sense 1980s built them from frame up or buy complete bike at a real good price and change out some parts or lots of parts depend on build 🤓🚴🏼‍♂️😁🚴🏼‍♀️💪🚵‍♂️💯🚵‍♀️ 👍

[@StephenMonjure]

Excellent comments from people that know what the deal is. Bulls make money, Bears make money, Pigs get slaughtered….

[@MikeBodo]

I stil own (and ride) a 58 cm Cervelo R3 SL from 2007 that's a full caron frame, externally cable routed and has SRAM Force mechanical shifters and brakes. I've been rocking the same Reynolds 60 mm carbon clinchers since 2010 and the bike is light a feather. Bike mechanics marvel how light my bike is on the odd occasion I bring it in for service compared to today's road bikes. They can lift it with their pinky finger easily. I paid $5k for it in 2007 and see no reason to buy anything new for more, as today's over spec'd, heavier bikes would be a drastic downgrade from my current bike. I love the fact that I can work on my bike easily and don't need to take in into a shop every time I need something done to it. One thing you failed to cover in your conversation are the after market costs in bike ownership, which have skyrocketed as well because bikes have become nearly impossible to be worked on by owners. At 60 I probably won't by another road bike in my lifetime and if I were, it would be something pre-2018 that I could work on, as I see no reason to spend $5k or more on today's sub-par, overly spec'd bikes.

[@jamescourier1545]

My middle finger to ridiculously over priced bikes is buying direct to consumer frames & building the bikes myself. Did this with a full sus XC, a fat bike & a gravel bike. Just ordered a road frame. ❤

[@George-Kliavkoff4Big12]

The used bike market is peaking. You have all these COVID bike buys and the folks that bought them are the same folks that hoarded toilet paper and paper towels. Now they realized they aren't riding like they thought they would are offloading them.

[@Ih8GoogleandApple]

Was looking at bike prices for a DuraAce Pinarello in Lake Oswego. That thing was $15.5K. They had dozens of these bikes in their showroom which tells me they aren’t having trouble moving them,

[@nationsnumber1chump]

Well not to be mean or anything but they give them away to big youtubers and they still aren't selling? Why are they still giving them away in influencers?

[@charliedillon1400]

@@nationsnumber1chump Bigger question is what bike shop has dozens of high end Pinarellos built up in the showroom?

[@jdcolnago3]

i tend to differ..bet they arent moving thats why dozens are still there

[@timdowney6721]

Or, with dozens in the showroom, they’re having worlds of trouble moving them.

[@murraygd13]

The overall economic numbers look OK for now. But in my opinion it's going to come crashing down soon. The company I work for makes automotive, medical, and commercial electronic parts. Our sales are down 20-30 % from pre-pandemic. Higher interest rates to slow down inflation led to lack of spending on big purchases, which will trickle down to other purchases. With sales being down we have had to layoff ~30 percent of the indirect labor, direct labor if someone retires or quits we don't fill the position. Haven't been given a raise in 3 years, so with inflation for rent, car insurance, groceries, etc ~15-20 percent over that same time, no extra cash to spend on bicycle. You'd ask find a different job. I've applied for about 10-15 positions in the last 3 months. Had 2 phone interviews, but nothing more than that. I think employers are reluctant to hire unless they can hire someone for below market wage. Or just force their remaining employees to do more work. Not real sure where the US economic numbers aren't crashing, maybe service industries? Manufacturing has taken a beating all around.

[@juliuscaesar4802]

I’m 26 been cycling for 3 years now own 3 used bianchis got them for 400$ each and yes there Celeste with Campagnolo I think I’m happy enough ❤

[@al-du6lb]

Good video. I like this topic. Rate cuts should help, but obviously there's going to be a lag effect.

[@Paint-with-your-brains]

Trek Dealer employee here. Marlin 2-4, Domane, FX1-3, Verve 1-3, Because near the shore, pick an Electra cruiser then electric bikes of all stripes. That is what we sell. $200-$1k bikes for days, almost every day we sell a couple of bikes, half of them are not expensive at all. I have had 2 "ups" in the last month that were looking at a full suspension bike and 2 looking at a tri bike. Sticker shock ended that. 5 days a week, 9 hours (including the hour siesta) each day and it is cruisers, hybrids, electric bikes in that order. Super high COL area. People drop the black card for a $600 bike because that is what they want to spend on a bike. Great mountain biking in the area, but we are down at the shore. Beautiful road riding, kind of crappy roads and people just walk by the road bikes with zero interest. $2.5k e-bike? "Here is my card." $2.5k mountain/road bike? "Nah, I will take the $600 hybrid/cruiser." Some of this comes down to the demographic in the area and some down to the demographic that the old owner cultivated. I am eager and sometimes a little too aggressive with the nicer bikes and I am falling on my face more often than not. Getting the upsell on accessories and labor extras is stupid easy. Getting the upsell from the $500 bike to the $800 bike is work but not hard. Show someone something fancy and they dismiss it like it is an absurd luxury that takes the back seat to a new Mercedes E class. G class if they want the bike in the trunk. Buying a new watch is more important than the tri bike that costs the same. $600 cruisers and $1500 ebikes. Again, beach shop so that is some of it. $900k houses, not $4k bikes. We service the expensive bikes. Some really cool stuff comes through the doors. The customers already own them and are not interested in the upgrade. "Look at this cool bike we just got in!" returned with a blank stare. "Sounds like a good time to upgrade your bike!" "Yeah, that looks like a cool new cruiser! How about your e-bikes?"

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

Thanks for sharing.

[@jensenhealey907efi]

The bicycle industry here in the US has made little or no effort towards working to promote increased cycling infrastructure. With better cycling infrastructure you have more riders and therefor more demand for bicycles. The industry seems to have zero interest in assisting with helping to organize bicycle advocacy. This is a HUGE mistake on their part.

[@mikestivers8302]

the bike industry is bigger than the 5 brands you've heard of and the LBS who support them. Propain isn't going anywhere.

[@IKnowAGuyBicycles]

True

[@evanshaw17]

Let’s talk about trek for a minute. They’re the ones that completely tried to destroy Greg LeMond and went with Lance Armstrong the criminal and are selling bikes as a result of that so who the hell wants to have a trek bike when that’s their history what a scumbag company that’s just disgusting. Let’s face it.

[@fb-gj7yi]

Road Bike, buy a used rim brake bike. Plenty out there at good prices, 10-11 speed mechanical and you'll be fine. Just try to get one that can take 25mm tires, 28mm preferable.