What Will Bicycling Be Like 50 Years From Now?

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Updated July 2025:

I’ve often wondered what bicycling will look like 50 years from now. After all, I started riding seriously half a century ago — and while the bikes have changed, it’s not as dramatic as you might expect. Sure, frame materials have improved, and components are more efficient and lighter, but the essence of cycling — the connection between rider and road — remains much the same.

That might not be true for the next 50 years.

When I started researching what experts are predicting for the future of cycling, I found some surprising, even mind-blowing possibilities. If you're interested in reading more, I’ve included citations at the end of the article.

Of course, predicting the future is always uncertain. But if current trends continue, here are a few changes we might see:

---

⚡ Electric Bikes Will Rule the Road
As battery tech gets better — lighter, longer-lasting, and faster to charge — electric bikes (e-bikes) will become even more popular. Expect longer-range models, built-in solar charging, and possibly even wireless charging lanes in cities. For commuters and older riders, this could be a game-changer.

🚲 Self-Driving Integration
It might sound like science fiction, but bicycles may one day communicate with self-driving cars. Some experts believe bikes could have self-navigation features to help with route planning or avoid collisions. Imagine your bike gently steering you clear of a pothole or leading you through an unfamiliar city.

🌍 Sustainable Materials and Smarter Manufacturing
Tomorrow’s bikes could be made from bamboo, hemp composites, or even biodegradable polymers. 3D printing and modular components may also allow riders to customize or repair bikes more easily, reducing waste and cost.

🛡️ Safer by Design
Expect safety to go far beyond helmets. We may see bikes with built-in airbags, AI-powered collision detection, and visibility-enhancing lights that respond to traffic conditions. Helmets could even monitor brain activity or alert emergency services after a crash.

📱 Next-Level Bike Sharing
Public bike systems will likely be smarter — integrated with GPS, real-time availability apps, and linked with trains, buses, or self-driving shuttles. Subscription models might let you grab a bike anywhere, ride it across town, and drop it at a charging station — all hands-free.

---

No one knows for sure where things are heading. But if history is any guide, one thing is certain: the simple joy of riding a bike will still be here. Only now, it might come with a boost button, a smart helmet, and a sustainable frame that tells you when it needs a tune-up.

And honestly? I’m excited to see where the road leads.

🚴 Gear I Personally Use

• Renpho Smart Scale
  Lost 17 lbs since buying — motivating and full of great info.
  👉 See the One I Have
• Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet
  My most important piece of gear — a must-have for every ride.
  👉 Lots of Colors
• Outdoor Cooling Arm Sleeves
  I wear these every ride to protect my skin from cancer.
  👉 Check Price
• Cosmos Cooling Leg Sleeves
  I had cancer cut off my leg — I refuse to have more problems and wear these now.
  👉 See Them
• Przewalski Bib Shorts
  I have multiple pairs — more comfortable and last longer.
  👉 See Them
• Premier Protein Shakes
  I drink one after every ride — low sugar, high protein.
  👉 Amazon Price

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.