The bicycle industry faces dramatic shifts as traditional tours struggle to survive.
Shane Cusick takes us on a fascinating journey through the transforming landscape of cycling, drawing from his rich experiences as both the former tour director of Bike Virginia and founder of Pello Bikes, a children's bicycle company focused on quality and performance.
The cycling world stands at a crossroads. Traditional multi-day cycling tours that once drew thousands of participants are now struggling to survive. Shane reveals how Bike Virginia, which previously attracted 2,000 cyclists annually, saw attendance plummet to just 450 riders in its most recent edition. This trend extends beyond Virginia's borders, with established events like Cycle Oregon, Bike Florida, and Ride the Rockies all facing existential challenges. The causes? A perfect storm of demographic shifts as Baby Boomers age out of longer tours, younger generations preferring different riding styles, growing safety concerns about road cycling, and the lasting impact of the pandemic.
Behind the scenes, tour management presents incredible logistical challenges. Shane shares colorful stories of 18-hour workdays, last-minute venue cancellations, and the constant juggling act required to move thousands of cyclists safely through Virginia's communities. His description of the adrenaline-fueled six-day tours provides a window into why these events create such powerful memories for participants, despite the enormous effort required to execute them.
The conversation shifts to children's cycling when Shane discusses founding Pello Bikes, his company dedicated to creating proper bicycles for young riders. The revelation that most children's bikes are unnecessarily heavy and poorly designed sparked his mission to build lightweight, quality bicycles featuring appropriate components for small hands. Most fascinating is his insight into how balance bikes have revolutionized early cycling, enabling children to master balance first – often starting as young as age one – and thereby learning to ride years earlier than previous generations.
Whether you're interested in cycling event trends, the challenges facing the bicycle industry, or simply how to give your child the best start on two wheels, this episode delivers valuable insights from someone who's lived at the intersection of cycling advocacy, event management, and bicycle design for over fifteen years.
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Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.
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