MILAN – The fourth appointment of the event “How the Bike Economy Runs” promoted by Chamber of Commerce of Milan Monza Brianza and Lodi, brought the bicycle and the possibilities associated with it to the center of the debate for building a more sustainable futureThe two-wheeled world is coming off four years of constant growth, and projections point to increasingly strong and solid progression. La Bike Economy It is one of the most dynamic economies in the world, which in 2019 moved 55 billion euros, while in 2032 the market is expected to reach a total value of 232 billion euros.
The heart of this project and of the movement linked to the bike economy are small and medium-sized enterprises., players capable of revolutionizing the labor and technology markets. The bicycle has always been an ancient tool, yet one capable of innovation and renewal. The emotions that bind us to the past and to the deeds of great champions remind us that his form does not change, but its structure has now changed profoundly.
The territory
Protagonists of one of the four moments of discussion, which saw various actors of the Bike Economy alternate on stage, were Paolo Bellino, CEO and General Manager of RCS Sport & Events, Roberto Salvador, Giro-E Director and Davide Cassani, Ambassador of Suzuki Bike Day (the three are together in the opening photo).
Paolo Bellino had the delicate task of introducing into the context what is the value of a race like the Tour of Italy (which will present the 2026 route today). The sporting event that for 108 editions has brought Italy and its beauty to the world, becoming a showcase for the territories it passes through.
“The Giro d’Italia,” Bellino says, “has always been the toughest event in the world, held in the most beautiful country. During the 2023 and 2025 editions we had the opportunity, thanks to Bank Ifis, to note the value of this event, which in the last edition was over two billion euros. The Giro is not just economics, it's also emotion and sustainability. In each stopover city we carry out projects related to recycling and we have reached numbers above 92 percentAttention to the local area is fundamental for us, an important aspect is what we leave behind in the municipalities we pass through. We have seen that the passage of a race like the Giro d'Italia leads to a forty percent increase in the use of bicyclesThese are encouraging numbers, which encourage us to continue and continue on our path."
Electric and fun
Since 2019, when it made its debut alongside the Giro d'Italia, the Giro-E it has grown enormously, becoming a true event within the event. Pedaling with the support of an engine on the roads where the great champions would have faced each other a few hours later It turned out to be a move as simple as it was successful. Over the years, the Giro-E has touched the whole our peninsula, becoming an advertisement for those who have never had the courage to push themselves beyond their imagination.
«Our event – explains Roberto Salvador – also proved to be a solid test for electric bicycles, demonstrating that thanks to the technological development carried out in recent years, no climb is impossibleWe've also overcome the reluctance of many enthusiasts; the e-bike allows you to enjoy the ride and the surrounding landscapes. The user has the opportunity to look up and be enchanted by the territories in which he pedalsWith the Giro-E we managed to bring in different subjects, not all of them cyclists or enthusiasts, and the incredible thing we noticed is that those who cycle in certain places come back. The same goes for spectators on the roadside or at home, Professional cycling and the exploits of great champions are a unique opportunity to enhance and make certain areas of the country iconic.».
Suzuki
The last word went to Davide Cassani, a key figure in Italian cycling, ambassador of Suzuki Bike DayAn event born five years ago (the first edition took place in 2021) and aimed at promoting the use of bicycles in order to enhance the territories crossed.
"We started with a meeting in Carpegna," Cassani explains, "between Emilia-Romagna and Marche, with the goal of bringing together those who love cycling and finding a connection with the local area. Then, thanks to the support of Suzuki we moved to the Imola racetrackThe idea was to unite the world of motors with that of bicycles. Over the years the Suzuki Bike Day has grown so much that we have decided to move and arrive at the Monza racetrackIn an area that loves cycling but presents greater logistical challenges. I must admit, however, that seeing so many enthusiasts (we're talking about 2.500 participants, ed.) made us realize we were on the right track.
Crucial moment
“The bicycle is the thermometer of a country,” was a theme that was often repeated during the meeting held on November 27 at Palazzo Giureconsulti in Milan, a stone's throw from the frenzy of Piazza Duomo, which is preparing to host the next Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Never before has the bicycle been so synonymous with transition and a future that is more attentive to the social and economic policies of a country.And while in Rome a few weeks ago the protest against bike lanes and 30 km/h zones in cities, led by the Brothers of Italy party, ended with a paltry turnout, Italy continues to pedal. The steps to be taken are there for all to see, the policies implemented have served as the first push to bring out the need for a different, gentle mobility.But the events of the last few days, with the death of Viola Mazzotti in Bologna, hit by a truck while she was riding a cycle path, make us understand that much still needs to be done.
Cycling is pushing to emerge, many local communities have noticed this and are making it the cornerstone of their tourism. A strategy is now needed that can involve all the actors in order to create infrastructures capable of connecting securely, continuous and intermodal the various tourist and economic hubs of the country.
