February 11/14 13:49 pm - U.S. Bike Sales Down for 2013

Posted by Editoress on 02/11/14
 

U.S. market research company Leisure Trends has announced that in the final month of 2013, IBD (Independent Bicycle Dealer) merchandise sales were down 2% from the comparable period in 2012.  This contributed to an overall decline in merchandise sales of 3% for all of 2013 from the year before. Leisure Trends collects data using their RetailTrak program.

For December, Unit Sales fell a notable 7% as average retail-selling prices climbed 5%. Bicycles escaped the month's decline, gaining 1% in both units and dollars. With the exception of road bikes, down 13%, most major bicycle categories shared in the month's dollar gains. Transit/fitness bikes jumped 16% in units and dollars. Not to be forgotten in the holiday month, children's bike sales rose 8%.

Mountain bikes, with their three wheel sizes, proved to be the most dynamic of the major bike categories. All mountain bikes gained 7%; however, 26-inch wheeled models fell 6%, 29ers bumped up 4% and the 27.5-inch category reached 8% of December MTB dollars.

Few non-bike categories posted growth this December, apparel fell 9%, aftermarket accessories dipped 6% and aftermarket parts shed 4%.

Dollar Sales for December 2013 vs. December 2012:

• All Bicycles: +1%
• Road Bikes: -13%
• Mountain Bikes: +7%
• Transit/Fitness Bikes: +17%
• Lifestyle/Leisure Bikes: +2%
• Shoes: -1%
• Apparel: -9%
• Aftermarket Parts: -4%
• Aftermarket Accessories: -6%