US bike imports hit eight-year low in January

Bicycle imports into America were at their lowest in January since 2002, according to this report on US cycle trade site Bicycle Retailer.

139,794 fewer units entered the States in January than in the same month in 2009 – a 13 per cent drop. Adult bikes imports dropped significantly, with 41 per cent fewer 26-inch bikes entering the country and 38 per cent less road and hybrid bikes.

Imports from Taiwan were hit significantly, falling 51 per cent to 38,895 units – reportedly the lowest level in a decade.

26-inch imports from Taiwan fell 72 per cent, by 26,824 units.

Following the Taiwan-set Taipei International Cycle Show, TAITRA said exports from Taiwan had fallen 20 per cent across 2009.