Cycling Demographics

According to the National Association of Sporting Goods Retailers, cycling is the second most popular recreational activity in the United States, even without being a major TV sport.
Sports Activity Participants (millions) Growth Since 1998
1 Exercise Walking 80.8   4%
2 Cycling (Road & Off Road) 64.3   4%
3 Swimming 57.9 -1%
4 Camping Vacation/Overnight) 50.1   8%
5 Exercising with Equipment 45.2 -2%
6 Fishing 46.7   7%
7 Bowling 41.6   4%
8 Billiards/Pool 32.1   0%
9 Basketball 29.6   1%
10 Golf 27   -2%
15 Running/Jogging 22.4 -1%
18 Baseball 16.3   3%
21 Soccer 13.2   0%
26 Tennis 10.9 -3%
27 Football (Tackle)   8.7   7%
30 Ice/Figure Skating   7.7 -2%
31 Skiing (Alpine)   7.4 -4%
39 Gymnastics  5   na

Racing Demographics

Cycling demographics cover three areas of interest - racing recreation and spectator Events. Like most professional sports, the race participation is male dominated. Unlike most sports, cycling has a very large female recreational and spectator base
Licensed Racers
Number of licensed racers 72,000
Median Age 34
Median Household Income $75,000+
College Graduates 81%
Post Graduate 27%
Male/Female 89%/11%

Cycling Demographics

  • Bicycling is the 2nd most popular sport in the world. (1)
  • Bicycling represents a $3.5 billion industry in the US alone.
  • There are more cyclists in the US than skiers, golfers, & tennis players combined. (2)
  • Total US cyclists: 99 million (3)
  • The average cyclist is young & affluent:
    • 87% are between the ages of 18 and 44
    • 55% are male
    • 45% are female
    • 63% are professional
    • High discretionary income (average household income = $55,000)
    • High brand loyalty and concerned with value & quality
USA Cycling Inc. - Competitive Participants' Demographics (4)
  • 1997 Total membership - 95,000+ members
  • Combined membership of: USCF (United States Cycling Federation)
    • NORBA (National Off-Road Bicycling Association)
    • NBL (National BMX League)
    • USPRO (United States Professional Racing Organization)
  • 6,214 sanctioned events in 1997
  • 58% are between the ages of 18 and 44
  1. CNN Factoid, 21 Nov. 1997
  2. National Sporting Goods Association Report Nov. 1997, http://www.nsga.org
  3. Bicycle Market Research
  4. 1997 Year End Repeat Board of Directors Meeting, USA Cycling Inc.