Leave the house, get on the bike, take a train, get back on the bike, and get to work. This is what is called intermodal mobility, where two or more means of transport are combined to reach a destination efficiently. For thousands of European citizens, this is a daily routine, and it reflects a major commitment by governments and city councils across the continent. Burning fuel in a large vehicle that occupies significant space proves to be an inefficient choice in urban environments.
The Rise of Electric Scooters
In the quest for intermodality, electric scooters have gained monumental traction in recent years, prompting regulatory adjustments in countries like Spain. For instance, the DGT (General Directorate of Traffic) has mandated that these vehicles be used strictly on roads or bike lanes, rather than sidewalks.
Folding Bicycles: The Overlooked Option
While electric scooters have captured public attention, the folding bicycle represents a key market niche in intermodal mobility that remains underutilized. This versatile mode of transport allows users to easily travel to public transport stations and conveniently store the bicycle in tight spaces. Despite their potential, folding bicycles still largely go unnoticed in urban settings.
From the Supermarket to Work
Although there are valid reasons to prefer electric scooters, folding bicycles are starting to gain importance. The electric scooter recently faced bans on public transport in cities like Madrid due to safety concerns, such as incidents of fires. On the other hand, folding bicycles are lightweight, easily transported, and can be folded and stored at most workplaces.
Market Trends
Finding precise data on the penetration of folding bicycles can be challenging since most statistics don’t differentiate them from other bicycle types. Nevertheless, analysts forecast a market growth of over 7% until 2034, indicating a rising interest in this type of mobility. Notably, large U.S. cities are projected to see increases of over 30% in folding bicycle adoption, largely due to a more entrenched car culture.
Pioneering Nations and Storage Solutions
Countries like the Netherlands and Belgium are leaders in integrating bicycles with public transport. Many citizens own multiple bicycles, using them interchangeably for their trips. Meanwhile, in Spain, the lack of dedicated storage spaces for traditional bicycles often discourages usage, and this is where folding bicycles can shine as a practical alternative.
The Retail Sector Takes Notice
Major retailers are starting to recognize the market potential of folding bicycles. Stores like Lidl and Carrefour are offering options under €1,000, while Decathlon continues to lead in providing affordable folding bicycle choices, ranging from just over €200 to upwards of €2,000.
The Future of Urban Mobility
The primary strength of folding bicycles over electric scooters lies in their portability and stability. Cyclists enjoy a greater sense of security, all while benefiting from the ability to use public transport—an increasingly restricted space for electric scooters. As urban mobility continues to evolve, the time for folding bicycles to take center stage may be closer than we think.
Images by Rex Lovic and Mateus Jud.