E-bikes play an increasingly central role in people's lives

Shimano's Third State of Nation report revealed that 46% Europeans consider e-bikes as a viable alternative to car travel.

This means that more and more people prefer a zero-emission micro-mobility system rather than the car as a means of daily transport.

The study was commissioned to examine the role that e-Bikes have gained in society and to understand how the pandemic and the events of the last two years have influenced consumer habits and the purchase of these models.

The opinions of over 14,000 people from 12 European countries were collected and the aim is to examine user motivations and understand how the e-bike market sector has changed in the last 12 months.

Roman Meliška, business consultant focused on active urban mobility, said: “Some cities have been quick to reallocate public space for people walking and cycling, making cycling more convenient and inviting to new target audiences.”

From the data it emerged that the 27% of Europeans are more likely to use or buy an e-Bike now than before the pandemic, with the 39% who claims to use it to avoid public transport.

Over a third, the 37% to be precise, of the under 24s he declared that he would use an e-Bike to contribute to reducing pollution, while the 41% of over 55s said they were looking for an alternative vehicle to a motor vehicle.

Again, the 29% cited health benefits as the overriding factor for getting an electric bike.

As for the models, the city e-Bike are the ones that are most popular, around 25 %, followed by Trekking, with a 14% and the 12% for the eMtb. Only the 5% is interested in one eRoad and the 6% to a folding one.

Among those interviewed, 31% reported that they intend to buy or rent an e-Bike in the next 12 months, and, again from the data, it emerged that women are more interested in eRoads while men are more interested in eMTBs.

Ben Hillsdon, head of PR and communications at Shimano: “While the global pandemic has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the bicycle industry and attitudes towards cycling, the crisis has also brought eBikes and urban travel into the spotlight. In particular, among the younger age groups interviewed, pedal-assist bikes and cargo bikes are now seen as alternatives to the motor vehicle and a way to reduce environmental impact."