Counterfeits, Tariffs, and Comebacks: Turbulent Shifts in Cycling Industry
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Platform Versatility & Value in MTB
Trek, Polygon, and YT Industries all emphasize versatility and value in new mountain bikes.
Trek Fuel platform spans Fuel EX, Fuel MX, and Fuel LX, all from one frame, targeting aggressive trail and enduro.
The Fuel LX 9 XO AXS adds 170mm travel front/rear, Fox DHX2 coil, SRAM XO AXS, and Project One customization.
The Polygon Collosus T offers a carbon frame at $3,799, 140mm/160mm travel, and adjustable geometry via IFS suspension.
YT Industries relaunches with a limited Tues DH at 4,444 Euros, using a carbon frame, Crank Brothers wheels, and RockShox Ultimate suspension.
Shared platforms and aggressive pricing signal a push to cover more rider segments with fewer SKUs while defending value perception.
Gravel, Apparel & Components
Knolly Bikes and Pas Normal Studios lean into premium adventure and winter performance.
The updated Cache Titanium keeps its titanium frame but adds slacker geometry, more mounts, SRAM UDH, and a suspension-corrected front end, with frames from $4,439 and completes from $8,279.
Pas Normal Studios'T.K.O. AW25 collection brings high-visibility winter kit, including the Mechanism Thermal Jacket and TKO Woven Long Sleeve Jersey, with women’s cuts planned next winter.
LOOK upgrades KEO Grip cleats with larger rubber patches and smoother exits, addressing durability and noise complaints.
Risk, Regulation & Infrastructure
Specialized, AliExpress, and Chinese law enforcement seize over $1.6M in counterfeit frames and components, including fake Tarmac SL8, Pinarello, and Trek items.
US buyers face miscalculated tariff bills on imported frames, exposing HS code complexity and small-seller weaknesses.
An Irish study finds protected bike lanes do not hinder emergency responders and can improve access, countering infrastructure opposition.