Observatoire du Cycle 2025: The Evolving French Bicycle Market
The French bicycle market in 2025 presents a complex landscape, marked by a paradox: while cycling participation has reached unprecedented levels, new bicycle sales have declined for the second consecutive year. This trend underscores a significant transformation in consumer behavior and market dynamics.
Key Insights in Five Figures
| Indicator | 2025 Value | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Active Cyclists in France | 9 million | Increasing |
| New Bicycle Sales (Value) | €1.86 billion | -8.4% |
| E-Bike Sales (Volume) | 507,000 | -16% |
| Repair Sector Revenue | €128 million | +10.5% |
| Refurbished Bicycles (Professional) | 176,000 | +11% |
Cycling Participation at an All-Time High
In 2025, France boasts 9 million active cyclists, with women comprising 42% of this group. Cycling infrastructure has also seen improvements, with a 5% increase in dedicated cycling lanes over the past year. This surge in participation reflects a deepening integration of cycling into daily life, encompassing commuting, leisure, and fitness activities.
Decline in New Bicycle Sales
Despite the rise in cycling activity, new bicycle sales have experienced a downturn. In 2025, 1.84 million new bicycles were sold, a 6.2% decrease from the previous year. The total market value fell to €1.86 billion, marking an 8.4% decline. Electric bicycles (e-bikes), once a significant growth driver, saw a 16% drop in sales volume, with 507,000 units sold. The average price of an e-bike now stands at approximately €2,000, compared to €638 for a traditional bicycle. This price disparity, coupled with the cessation of national purchase subsidies in February 2025, has contributed to the decline. (lemonde.fr)
Boom in Bicycle Repairs
A notable trend is the substantial growth in bicycle repairs. The repair sector’s revenue reached €128 million in 2025, a 10.5% increase from the previous year and more than double the figure from 2019. This surge indicates a shift towards maintaining existing bicycles rather than purchasing new ones. In 2025, French consumers had their bicycles repaired 6.3 million times, compared to 1.8 million new bicycles sold, highlighting a preference for extending the lifespan of existing bikes. (lemonde.fr)
Growth in Refurbished Bicycles
The market for refurbished bicycles is also expanding. In 2025, 176,000 refurbished bicycles were sold by professional platforms, marking an 11% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects a broader acceptance of second-hand bicycles, driven by affordability and sustainability considerations. Notably, e-bikes in this category are sold at an average of 40% less than their new counterparts, making them more accessible to a wider audience. (lemonde.fr)
Conclusion: A Market in Transition
The 2025 Observatoire du Cycle reveals a French bicycle market undergoing significant transformation. While new bicycle sales have declined, cycling participation continues to rise, and the repair and refurbished bicycle sectors are thriving. This evolution suggests a shift towards a more sustainable and maintenance-oriented cycling culture. However, challenges remain, including the need for supportive public policies and infrastructure development to sustain and further this positive trend.
Highlights:
- New bicycle sales in France continued to decline in 2025, Published on Friday, April 24