E-bikes made up 63% of bicycle sales growth between 2019 and 2023, according to figures from Circana cited by Persistence Market Research. That one statistic carries much of the firm’s forecast for the tire business: a global market valued at US$10.8 billion in 2026 and expected to reach US$15.0 billion by 2033, a compound annual growth rate of 4.8%.
The firm counts about 300 million e-bikes in use worldwide. In the United States, roughly 1.7 million were imported in 2024, up 72% from the year before. Tires built for e-bikes, which take higher torque, more weight and sustained higher speeds, sold more than 120 million units worldwide that year.
Where the tires sell
Asia Pacific is expected to hold about 52% of the market in 2026, helped by large-scale manufacturing. China alone built 30 million e-bikes in 2022, and nearly 58% of global tire sales volume sits in the region. The Middle East and Africa are projected to grow fastest through 2033, driven by cycling clubs, fitness awareness and government programs promoting sustainable transport.
Tube tires lead by product type with around 77% of the market in 2026. They cost typically 20% to 40% less than tubeless alternatives and are easier to repair. Airless and solid tires are the fastest-growing category. Demand for puncture-proof types passed 85 million units in 2024.
Roads and riders
More than 750 cities added new cycling lanes in 2024, which the firm links to demand for over 520 million bicycle tires among urban commuters. Of those, 37% chose puncture-resistant types. Canada has a CAD 400 million cycling infrastructure program that pairs e-bike lanes with charging stations. California and New York offer rebates of up to US$1,750.
PeopleForBikes reported that 35% of Americans aged three and older rode a bicycle at least once in 2024, nearly 112 million people, up from 32% in 2018. Ridership rose 9% among children aged three to nine and 15% among those aged 10 to 17.
Pressure on makers
Margins are under strain. Prices for natural rubber, synthetic rubber and Kevlar swing, and average tire prices rose around 8% in 2024. Low-cost Asian manufacturers squeeze the aftermarket, while online tire sales grew 28% between 2023 and 2024. Schwalbe, Continental and Michelin defend their prices with performance and durability claims.
Some makers are moving into new products. Schwalbe launched a biodegradable urban tire in February 2024. Smart tires with pressure and wear sensors grew 19% in 2024. Cargo e-bikes for delivery fleets sold about 38,500 units that year, worth nearly US$100 million.
