What’s in and out for 2023? Here’s our predictions:
In – Sane Used Bike Market
The used bike market will be much softer in 2023 and you’ll be able to grab some steals most likely. As new bike inventory will overrun demand, prices around the industry will stabilize.
Out – Bike Boom
Expect to see sales, layoffs and more signs of the mountain bike business being less lucrative that years prior. Specialized, Pearl Izumi, QBP, Rad Power Bikes, Outside Inc all have already had layoffs and I expect to see more of this in the coming year. Along with this, I think we may actually see bike prices start to creep down a bit as brands have to work harder to move units.
In – Trail Riding
Trail bikes are getting really good. Trail bikes tend to be affordable, capable of doing almost everything and super fun. I expect to see the trail bikes be the strongest category of bikes this year with cross country and full enduro bikes falling in popularity. As many riders will be looking for a one bike quiver, the trail bike in the 130mm-150mm travel range will fit most riders needs the best.
Out – Racing
With Red Bull TV losing the rights to UCI racing I expect there to be a stark decline in professional racing viewership. So far what we know from the Discovery partnership does not look promising for casual viewers.
In addition I think people will be looking to save money this year and race registrations have gotten very expensive in many places. $100 – $200 per race plus travel expenses will be out of reach of more and more participants.
In – Community Trail Projects
Communities improving their local trails through volunteer work and smaller projects will grow stronger as the increased population of Mountain Bikers from the Covid bike boom begin to get involved in the bike community. These increase resources will make more projects possible.
Out – Resort Bike Parks
I expect resorts will see a decrease in visitation this summer as other options for summer travel become more available in the wake of covid and fewer leisure dollars are available in the economy.
Let us know what you think of our in/out list. What would you add?
