CPSC Pushes for Stricter Testing, More E-Bike Brand Closures, A Butt Elliptical Saddle? | TWR Ep 30

Currently, many e-bikes and their components are tested to meet the safety requirements set forth by the UL 2271 and UL 2849 standards, but only a few cities in the US require such certifications. Other testing standards, such as the European EN 15194 and EN 17128 certifications, may offer consumers peace of mind, though they are not widely recognized.

Citing concerns over the flammability of lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, the CPSC wishes to require all e-bikes and their batteries to be UL certified. The commission is also pushing for the implementation of stricter testing standards and safety measures.

In a 3-2 vote, the CPSC’s proposed measure has advanced to the next stage of approval, entering a 60-day public comment period. Depending on the feedback the proposal receives, it could then move to Congress to later become law.

Industry advocates have expressed concern that if the measure is enacted, existing inventory that does not meet the proposed requirements could be devalued as it may be unable to be sold.

Our Take: We’re in favor of safety, quality, and manufacturing standards for the sake of consumer protection, but it is also true that major media outlets have overblown reports of e-bike-related battery fires. We recognize that the enforcement of new, stricter regulations could harm brands in a time when many are already struggling due to tariffs.

We encourage consumers to share their thoughts and opinions with the CPSC and will share updates as this story progresses.

The Pierer Mobility Group, parent company of GasGas and Husqvarna, released a statement of the company’s intent to withdraw from the e-bike market in fiscal year 2025 due to losses in sales. Both brands will sell off their existing inventory of e-bikes prior to their closure.

Pierer also has a 70% stake in Felt Bicycles, and will “evaluate strategic operations” for the brand, which is “operated separately.”

The conglomerate previously also owned Raymon Bicycles, but sold the brand in late 2023. Pierer cites this sale as a significant reason for the drop in sales (34%, by our calculations) experienced in 2024.

Additionally, Rotor America, a US-based subsidiary of Spanish company Rotor Bike Components, is set to close after 10 years in operation. The company cites “ongoing tariff insecurity” as its reasoning.

The existing US division will fill orders placed through June 15th, but subsequent orders will be routed to the brand’s Madrid warehouse.

Our Take: It seems that we’re announcing the closure of bike, e-bike, and bike-related brands regularly due to the market uncertainty following the Trump Administration’s sweeping tariffs. Tariffs are meant to encourage US-based manufacturing, but the closure of Rotor America proves that is not always the case.

We’re hopeful that brands will find new ways of dealing with the changes and pressures tariffs have put on the industry.

Last year, we reported on a unique, split-seat saddle from ataraxyBSC called the vabsRider. Now, months later, the company has launched and successfully funded a Kickstarter campaign, allowing the curious design to enter production.

The vabsRider, a “Virtual Axis Bicycle Seat,” features two independently moving halves that support the rider’s femurs (thigh bones) instead of sit bones. The design is intended to be comfortable, ergonomic, and fluid, moving with the body’s natural motion to “eliminate any pain on your sensitive areas.”

At the time of writing, the campaign has earned funding to the tune of $131k, which is well over its goal of around $10k. Those interested can still back the campaign until May 28th. The cost of a single saddle is $1,023 Australian dollars, which converts to roughly $657.

Our Take: Our original post highlighting the vabsRider received a lot of interest, which is further supported by the fact that the saddle’s campaign has vastly exceeded its funding goal. While it certainly has a premium price, the design seems functional and comfortable. We hope to be able to test the saddle ourselves in the near future!