Creating Jobs: Bicycles Made In America

For the last 20 years, buying bicycles made in America has been on the decline.  Many companies in the US import bicycles that have been mass produced at factories from China and Taiwan.   Due to global economic crisis and rising oil prices, bicycle manufacturing in the USA is on the rise.  Costs have been rising on the importation of these bicycles.

In addition to these factors, many consumers are demanding custom options to their bikes and turnaround times that overseas factories are not capable of.

Better Quality Bicycles Made In America

Past history reveals, as a whole consumers get better quality bicycles made in America.  America has strict rules and regulations governing products, such as paint, electrical products and on and on.  Is America infallible?  No.  But these rules and regulations are much stricter than China and many other countries abroad.  We have heard in the news for years of many products made China is unsafe.  For example, in 2007 toothpaste, pet food, seafood, and paint on toys were unsafe.  Even shoddy tire treads have been reported.  In 2009, sheet rock from China was announced unsafe.  Now even in 2011, clothing and possibly electronic items are unsafe from China.  Should we take these as wake up calls?

Are Many Bicycles Made In America Anymore?

Oh yes, there are still bicycles made in America.  Although the number of companies that manufacture these bicycles are few in number, they are around and bicycles made in the USA is on the rise.  Some manufacturers may import some aspects of the bicycle, such as the tires.  But with the ‘buy American’ sentiment getting stronger and stronger in the US today, the manufacture of bicycles made in America in its entirety is possible by more companies.  This shift could also prove to be affordable, and more consumer friendly.  Custom option demands and less turn around times for these options is certainly a perk for consumers.  And last but not least, hopefully many jobs will result from bicycles made in America.

Have you made any bicycle clicks on an American made bicycle lately?