VELOFOLLIES FINALLY BACK!
Fairs and events are clearly back in fashion. Just like the last edition of Velofollies in 2020, the coming edition can again count on a presence of the entire bicycle market. You can therefore expect a complete offer, ranging from road bikes and mountain bikes to trekking bikes, hybrid bikes, city bikes, e-bikes, retro bikes and gravel bikes, in short a mirror of Cyclelive Magazine in terms of content.
E-bikes already 40% of the total offer
Last year, just under 600,000 bikes were sold in Belgium, of which slightly less than 40% were electric bikes This trend can also be seen prominently on the exhibition floor. The new e-bikes have not only acquired a more beautiful look, they have also become more functional and lighter, which increases their appeal to the general public. But among the electric offerings, we especially notice an increase in e-sports bikes such as the e-mountain bike and the e-race bike. With this, the sporty e- taboo is dying down. The rise of the speedelec seems to have stalled somewhat, as it is not doing as well as in recent years.
Gravel bikes are hot
Another clear trend at Velofollies is the “back to nature” feeling, fueled in part by the urge for outdoor activities. The explosion of various gravel models, from fast gravel bikes to backpackers, is indicative of this. The combination of asphalt riding and off-roading is clearly much appreciated. The recent organization of the World Gravel Bike Championship, won by our compatriot Gianni Vermeersch, underlines this rise. But the demand for accessories such as bike routes and GPS systems is also booming business. The latter is a bit of the hype of the moment and we are noticing it.
Sustainability is gaining in importance
Fuelled from an ecological point of view (reducing the ecological footprint), utility bikes such as cargo bikes are gaining more and more importance. With their use for commuting and awareness of the importance of a healthier lifestyle, this market is experiencing a major boost.
Of course, sport bikes remain the core of Velofollies. When it comes to road bikes, you can look forward to numerous new models and innovations from over 300 exhibitors. Indoor bicycles have also found a new breath during the past period.
Women at the center of peripheral activities
Women take center stage during the fringe activities at this 15th edition. A.o. Elke Bleyaert, partner of Jasper Stuyven, presents “The Women Peloton”, a real community for passionate women who want to get better on or off the bike. Women’s cycling is clearly on the rise. The good performances by Lotte Kopecky and Shari Bossuyt, among others, at the past World Championships underline this.
This will undoubtedly be reflected by the guests invited to the central stage or to Karl Vannieuwkerke’s Vive-le-Velo table, which is moving to Velofollies for the occasion.
In addition to these pleasant conversations, Velofollies is also the place to sharpen your knowledge about cycling on rollers, cycling complaints and “marginal gains” in cycling. And, of course, you can enjoy the Kwaremont café, which for the occasion has a new look. The full list of peripheral activities can be found at www.velofollies.be
Delivery problems are over
Fortunately most of the delivery problems are over. An unfortunate consequence of the Corona crisis, when demand for new bicycles exploded but several factories were forced to shut down. In the meantime, the market has caught up, spare parts are again widely available and the waiting time for a new bike has been reduced.
All the more reason to visit Velofollies to see the largest selection of bicycles in the Benelux. You can visit us on Friday 20, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 January, from 10 am to 6 pm, with an evening opening on Friday until 9 pm. Tickets cost 13€ in presale at www.velofollies.be
Practical:
Opening hours:
Friday, January 20: 10am – 9pm
Saturday, January 21 & Sunday, January 22: 10am – 6pm
Location:
Kortrijk Xpo
Tickets:
13 € in presale, 17 € at the door.
Ticket sales start on November 15.
All info at: www.velofollies.be
