Key Takeaways

With over 230,000 m², Cyclingworld Europe might be younger than Eurobike, but it’s certainly not small. The self-proclaimed “festival of cycling culture” lives up to its name — from tattoo booths and industrial backdrops to an indoor surf spot and a relaxed, creative atmosphere.

Here are the highlights through the lens of our product designers and engineers:

1. Honest materials are having a moment

We saw a clear need for authenticity in material expression. Whether it’s to communicate sustainability, emphasize the intrinsic value of titanium, leverage specific performance qualities, or simply celebrate the raw aesthetic — materials are no longer hidden. In many cases, it’s all of the above. Transparency is becoming design language.

2. 3D printing keeps pushing boundaries

Additive manufacturing continues to mature. While still premium for mass production, the advantages are undeniable:

• Local manipulation of softness, flexibility and breathability
• Ultra-personalization in color and geometry
• Mono-material strategies for improved recyclability
• Complex geometries that were previously impossible

3D-printed saddles are everywhere now, no longer novelty, but standard. We also spotted fully TPU 3D-printed, highly customizable cycling shoes by HELU. A strong signal that functional personalization is scaling up.

3. The subtle e-bike evolution

Many e-bikes were almost indistinguishable from traditional bicycles. The focus? A natural riding feel with a subtle boost — not an overpowering surge.

The philosophy is clear: make it feel like a bike, not a scooter.
This approach enables smaller motors and batteries, reduced visual bulk, and a smoother integration into the overall design language.

Hidden motors and batteries were just the beginning. Integrated lights, seamless storage solutions, and smoothly blended stems showed how far integration and clean silhouettes have progressed.

CMF: Expression over restraint

Yes, pastels, earthy tones and metallic tints are still around. But this year we saw:

• Bold color blocking
• Bright expressive hues
• Wild graphics
• Sparkling metallics
• Speckled and experimental finishes
• Gradients making a comeback

Minimalism hasn’t disappeared, but it’s sharing the stage with personality. There’s a growing appetite for character and individuality. One final observation: gloss is back in the spotlight. Matte finishes seem to be stepping aside for now.

Our takeaway?

Cyclingworld reflects a deep love for bikes, playful, experimental, and engineered with intention. From foldable carbon/titanium racing tandems to unconventional wheel explorations, the industry is clearly balancing performance, sustainability, and emotional design.

Curious to exchange insights on where cycling design is heading next? Let’s connect.

MODYN, a design agency specializing in the bicycle industry, helps clients navigate this ever-changing landscape. We use our expertise to create innovative and sustainable solutions, ensuring brands stay ahead of the curve.

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