Research project on bicycle industry

Question
Hi Tad,

I understand there were something like just over 19 million bicycles sold in the USA last year. That's an incredible number! I'm interested in how many of these bikes were bought by newcomers to the activity (eg this was their first bicycle purchase ever), how many had previously owned a bicycle at some time, and how many were currently regular cyclists and purchased a 2nd (or 3rd or 4th...) bike or replacement for their current bike. Do you have, or knew where I could find, this kind of data (actual or projected)?

Thanks!
Mark

Answer
Hi Mark,

I am going to direct you to a couple of friends of mine who might be able to help you out. I don't want to publicly advertise their email addresses but if you go to the website gluskintownley.com and use their "contact me" button you should be able to reach then directly.

Jay Townley is a known industry annalist who spent many years as VP at Schwinn, then President of GIANT and now a consultant.

Elliot Gluskin was research director at "Bicycling" magazine.

Another source of information might be the industry news "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News" (BRAIN). I do not know the editor of BRAIN anymore or else I would offer an introduction.

Unlike Jay and Elliot I cannot recite the numbers off of the top of my head. Please realize, however, that a majority of those bikes sold are the 20" wheel and under. This has always been the industry leader for obvious reasons. Because of the fact that they are for first time riders (children) I think this may skew the numbers that you are looking for.

Please feel free to use my name as contact information. The two gents I mentioned do do this for a living and might only be able to offer you just so much information for free - depending on your needs - and I don't mean to offer their services for free. However, they are both great guys and should be able to help you.

If you need a more direct introduction I will be happy to do so. please email me at bikesnrovers at gmail.

Best regards,

Tad