Coronavirus: More Cyclists to Keep Fit, Bike Sales Boom in Indonesia

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Restrictions on public gatherings amid the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed many people to turn to cycling the world over. Indonesia is no exception and this has led to high demand in a bicycle sales and repair shop, too.

When people were told to stay home but at the same time they were also encouraged to exercise to boost the immune system, many chose cycling because health and wellness centers have been closed.

They are not only cycling enthusiasts who do their regular exercise; many have opted to cycle to work as a means to avoid crowded public transportation.

Some regions have eased up on restrictions and members of the public are slowly going back to their daily grind during the transition period in the country. Coronavirus crisis rages on but it’s a boon for bike shops.

“Consumers need bicycles for their exercise. Since the outbreak, they are concerned with their health,” said Mamet, a shop attendant in Bagus Bike in BSD.

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He said that there has been an increase in bike sales and repairs. Most consumers bought folding bikes from us with a price range between three million rupiahs ($213) and six million rupiahs.

Another shop, Formula Bike in South Tangerang, said that bike sales were up 100 percent now compared to the previous months before the pandemic. “Bike sales are in high demand lately,” said shop owner Azan Laganan.

“They don’t only buy a bicycle from us, but some also come to repair their bikes that have not been used for a long time,” said Azan.

“We are overwhelmed by such demand because the number of people buying bicycles keeps increasing during this coronavirus crisis,” he added.

Folding bikes and mountain bikes at the price of three to five million rupiahs is among the bestsellers now, he said.

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Cycling trends are taking place in both big cities and other places across Indonesia. As the country moves toward the “new normal” era and people are practicing physical distancing rules, many chose bicycles as their transportation option.

Brand Director of Polygon William Gozali said there are some factors why people are choosing bikes for their daily activity nowadays.

First and foremost, William said, people want to stay healthy amid the pandemic. Cycling is a sport that is considered safe and easy to do for all walks of life.