WINTER PARK, Fla. – As sweeping international tariffs take effect, small businesses across Central Florida are feeling the pressure, including Winter Park Cycles, which is warning customers of potential price increases due to the rising cost of imported bicycle parts.
The shop posted a message on Facebook to alert customers that costs could soon climb. Store manager Joey Gilman said uncertainty surrounding tariffs is creating challenges for the cycling industry, especially since bike components are sourced globally.
“A bike like this one might have parts from four different countries,” Gilman said, pointing to a model on the shop floor. “Tariffs have kind of created some uncertainty, especially in the supply chains of the cycling industry.”
Gilman explained that their bikes include parts from Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Japan, all countries facing new tariff hikes.
“For example, a $50 chain made in Japan with a 24% tariff increase is going to cost more, and that gets passed on to the customer,” Gilman said.
The ripple effect of these tariffs could mean steeper prices for consumers, especially those looking for entry-level bikes.
“If the financial barrier to entry is 20 to 30% higher, that’s just harder,” Gilman said.
Gilman emphasized that relying solely on U.S.-made components isn’t feasible for the industry, given how interconnected the global supply chain is.
In response, Winter Park Cycles is considering stocking up on inventory before the tariffs take full effect. Gilman encourages customers to purchase now if they’re in the market for a bike.
“That’s what makes the business unique is the passion,” he said. “Everyone who comes through our doors is passionate in one way or another about riding, and that’s what makes it fun.”