Folding bikes roll out the door as shoppers look for cost-effective ways to get around

Decathlon has stocked up on folding bikes in response to a surge in demand from shoppers looking for ways to get around that are cheaper on the hip pocket. 

“Demand for folding bikes is the highest it has ever been,” Decathlon Australia, CEO, Olivier Robinet said. 

“Shoppers are buying them up online and in-store. Our customers are telling us that they want the ability to ride into work or uni, fold up their bike, and not have to worry about parking costs, petrol costs or insurance costs. 

“In fact, some customers have said that they ride to the train or bus stop, fold up their bike, take it with them on public transport and then once they are dropped off, they then ride the rest of the way to work.   Other customers have told us that they carpool to a certain point and then ride the rest of the way. 

“It seems people are coming up with ways to get around that are cheaper and more convenient.” 

Decathlon stocks a range of folding bikes and they range in price from $299 to $799. 

“Folding bikes have really come a long way in recent years. We have designed and launched a number of folding bikes and they are quite sexy looking and very practical,” Robinet said. 

“They are extremely versatile, comfortable to ride, easy to fold up and light enough to carry. 

“In fact, it only takes 30 seconds to fold them up and they can be stored next to your desk. Our Tilt 900 Folding bike offers top-of-the-line options. It only takes 15 seconds to go from pedestrian to rider, includes nine speeds and is light to carry. 

“All of our bikes offer lifetime warranty on the frame, stem (excluding hinge), rigid fork and handlebar.” 

Caroline Bennett agrees.   She purchased a folding bike in January and uses it regularly. 

“I am lucky because I live in an apartment and my work is only a few kilometres away. It was starting to cost a lot on public transport every day so I decided to invest in a folding bike and it has been a great decision,” Ms Bennett said. 

“It is really easy to use and the folding bike has already paid for itself.  In fact, I am in profit which I am really pleased about. It is the best money decision I have made so far this year.” 

According to Robinet, folding bikes are ideal for commuters and travellers who are able to carry their bike with them when needed. 

“Folding bikes are now lighter, stronger and fold up smaller, making them ideal for so many people.  Not everyone has the luxury of being able to secure their bike inside while at work or at home.  In fact, bike theft is on the rise as well.  Folding bikes are perfect because you can store them next to your desk or inside your home. They are small enough to go anywhere.” 

About Decathlon

Decathlon launched in Australia in 2017 and now has seven stores across Victoria and NSW.  NSW:  Tempe, Auburn and Miranda.  Victoria:  Box Hill, Moorabbin, Knox Field and South Morang. 

Decathlon is a member warehouse and membership is free. Shoppers simply sign up in store or online. Anyone can visit Decathlon but they must be a member to purchase products.   

The brand is one of the world’s largest sporting goods designers and retailers originating from France. With over 1600 stores across the globe in 50 plus countries and more than 80,000 staff worldwide, Australia is now well and truly part of Decathlon’s growing worldwide presence and has already made a significant impact in the Australian market with its own brand of high-quality products at affordable prices. Sale terms and conditions and further information about Decathlon can be found at https://decathlon.com.au