Between bargains and high-end bikes: This is how much Germans actually invest in their bikes
Jan Timmermann
· 05.06.2026
The question "How much do Germans spend on a mountain bike?" cannot be answered with a single figure. However, the available market data clearly shows that mountain bikers invest an above-average amount in their hobby. For classic hardtails, the main focus of purchases today is in the range of around 1000 to 2500 euros, while high-quality fullys usually cost between 2500 and 5000 euros.
Anyone opting for an e-mountainbike often ends up in the price range of €3,000 to €6,000 or more. This means that mountain bikes remain one of the most valuable and best-selling segments of the German bike market.
Prices are relative. What is a lot for one person is not much for another. Although German bikers spend a relatively high amount on their equipment, there is a huge gap between this and the RRP of the latest new products on show. The latest high-gloss bikes are something to marvel at, but by no means for every budget. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
The German bicycle market is becoming increasingly high-quality
The most important source for the development of the bicycle market in Germany is the industry association ZIV (Zweirad-Industrie-Verband). According to the market data published by the ZIV, a total of 3.85 million bicycles and e-bikes were sold in Germany in 2024. Despite a slight decline in unit sales, total sales remained at a high level of 6.33 billion euros.
This shows that although consumers are buying slightly fewer bikes, they are still investing a lot of money in high-quality models. This trend is particularly evident in the mountain bike segment. According to the ZIV, the electrification of the market continues to progress. E-mountain bikes are now one of the most popular bike categories of all and contribute significantly to the high level of sales in the industry.
The ZIV does not publish specific average prices for mountain bikes. However, market analyses show a clear picture: for a modern hardtail mountain bike, the average market segment today is between 1000 and 2500 euros. High-quality hardtails often cost more than 3000 euros.
For full-suspension mountain bikes (fullys), the relevant market segment usually starts at around 2500 euros and can easily reach over 5000 euros. Top models can even reach five-figure sums.
This price structure indicates that many ambitious mountain bikers invest significantly more than the average bike buyer. While trekking or city bikes often remain under 1500 euros, mountain bikes have higher requirements for suspension, brakes and drive components.
E-mountain bikes drive up spending
The trend is even stronger for e-mountainbikes. According to ZIV market data, the average sales price of an e-bike in Germany in 2023 was just under €3000. Although this figure fell to around €2550 by 2025 due to high stock levels and discount campaigns, e-bikes remain by far the most valuable bike category.
As e-mountainbikes are traditionally priced above the average for all e-bikes, buyers in this segment often invest between €3,000 and €6,000. Models with high-quality suspension, a powerful battery and premium features regularly exceed the €7,000 mark.
The typical mountain bike purchase is becoming more expensive
A look at the community confirms this trend. In discussions among mountain bikers, entry-level hardtails are often quoted in the €500 to €1000 range, while many riders budget between €3000 and €3500 for their next trail or enduro bike.
At the same time, users are reporting an increasing normalisation of prices following the coronavirus boom, after exceptionally high demand and scarce availability characterised the market in 2021 to 2023.
Conclusion
Mountain biking is an expensive sport, but nowhere near as expensive as equestrian or motorsport. The fact that good bikes are becoming more and more expensive is regrettable for the future of the scene. At the same time, in my opinion, investing in a high-quality mountain bike can pay off for many years. With e-bikes, I see the loss of value due to the speed of innovation in motors and batteries as a risk. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor.
Jan Timmermann
Editor
