A Growing Market
• 2nd most popular outdoor activity in the U.S.• 19% of outdoor activity• Economic benefit of $133 billion in US alone• Growth in domestic and international cycling
tourism markets
Cycling Tourist Demographics
• 60% male, 40% female• Average age 45-55• 20% travelled solo, 50% in pairs, rest in groups
of 3-5• Majority have secondary degrees• Motivated by health, nature, relaxation and
sightseeing• Value safe and continuous routes, clear signage,
attractions along route
Economic Impacts
• $44 million euro economic impact• 2,300 cycling day trips• 20 million cycling holidays• Trips between 5-8 days long• Use of hotels and inns/guesthouses/B&B/farm
stays for lodging• Peak May-October
Additional Benefits
• Sustainable activity• Environmentally friendly• Low cost of infrastructure development
Challenges
• Lack of investment by tourism organizations and local governments
• Transportation and tourism suppliers overlook the cycling market
• Lack of cohesive data
Northern Outer Banks Cycling
• 55+ miles of developed on-road and off-road facilities
• $60 million economic impact per year
• 1,400 jobs created/supported
• Extended stays by 4 days• Increased spending by
cyclists
Danube Cycling Route
• Runs from Germany to the Black Sea
• Part of the EuroVelo system• Initiated additional bike
route development, sports and recreation development
• Bringing attention to potential for increased cycling and nature-based tourism