China Cycle 2025: Bigger, Bolder, and a Glimpse Into The Future

After attending many of the world’s major bike shows over the years, including Taipei Cycle and Eurobike in both Friedrichshafen and Frankfurt, I thought I had a good grasp of what a ‘big’ cycling trade show looked like. But this year’s China Cycle in Shanghai completely redefined those expectations.

Held across a staggering 13 exhibition halls at the vast Shanghai New International Expo Center, this year’s event expanded to an eye-watering 160,000 square meters, making it not just the world’s largest annual bike industry show, but also the most immersive and overwhelming I’ve ever experienced. The scale, the energy, the sheer number of exhibitors – it was beyond comparison.

Dragon may sound like a new brand but their roots go back 45 years.

From carbon fiber power-assist bikes and electronic shifting systems to polymer fiber rope spokes and e-mobility innovation, the level of technology on display was nothing short of remarkable.

China is not only the world’s largest manufacturer of bicycles and e-bikes, but also its largest market, accounting for more than 60% of global trade volume. This strength was on full display at the show where around 1,600 companies showcased their latest products and technology.

Five Key Takeaways

From a personal perspective, my five key observations are –

1: The rapid rise of competition in the drivetrain market. Brands such as L-TWOO, Magene and WheelTop are rapidly advancing as serious alternatives to ‘the big three’ groups manufacturers. I rode L-TWOO and WheelTop and have to say they are incredibly impressive, particularly considering they are prices significantly lower than the long-time market leaders.

2: The China Cycling Scene is eye-waveringly enormous. Meeting up with Aussie pro rider Cyrus Monk, it was fascinating to hear first hand just how big the Chinese cycling scene is. You can hear from Cyrus here https://www.instagram.com/p/DJTJlUEyEHf/

The 30-second Dahon folding bike challenge – click image to see how long it takes to get this new model road bike ready to ride.

3: Quality. Over the years China hasn’t been taken too seriously so far as quality control goes. That has all changed, with the bikes on show plus examples we saw at numerous factory visits proving that QC is key.

4: Variety: With close to 1600 exhibitors there were countless options in every industry sub category. Wheels, tyres, frames, helmets, kit and riding wear, bike bags, electronics, group sets, travel destinations – the bike industry is as diverse as it is strong.

5: Innovation. Nothing stands still in cycling, and there was no end of cycling industry innovation. From lighter and more powerful e-bikes to AI-equipped ride-recording cycling sunglasses to new light weight power meters to big steps forward in bike computers and e-bike motors that feature 3-speed automatic gearing.

The Innovation Demonstration Exhibition was a standout for me, offering a glimpse at the tech and trends that will shape cycling in the years to come. It wasn’t just about the bikes, it was about the future of transport, mobility, and sustainable recreation.

Lighting is becoming more powerful and efficient with many fine examples on show.

New Brands Mixing With Known Names

Brands like Giant, Merida, Shimano, Bafang, Bianchi, and Focus rubbed shoulders with China’s leading domestic brands including Phoenix, Forever, Trinx, and Xidesheng, creating a fascinating cross-section of global and local expertise. From high-end road and gravel bikes to electric cargo solutions and micro-mobility platforms, the diversity of product on display was immense.

Perhaps what struck me most was the energy of transformation that ran throughout the halls. The show placed strong emphasis on green tech, industry upgrading, and the push for more sustainable, innovative manufacturing practices. Companies like Dahon, Magene, Ananda and Golden Wheel were leading the conversation, showcasing technologies and solutions that align with China’s broader push toward greener, smarter mobility.

Summing Up

China Cycle 2024 wasn’t just a trade show but a clear vision of where the global bike industry is heading. From an industry perspective, it’s clear that anyone wanting to understand the future of cycling – be it in manufacturing, e-mobility, or innovation – needs to have China Cycle on their calendar. Plus the fact that Shanghai is an fascinating, mesmerising and truly memorable city to explore, especially as a first time visitor.