Independent bicycle dealers across the country enjoyed a $30-million increase in sales last year, according to the Bicycle Trade Association of Canada.

The number of units sold fell 7.55 percent, but the average price per wholesale unit rose 23 percent. Wholesale revenues reached $174.2 million. The BTAC estimated that this created a retail market value of $244 million.

The BTAC does not include big-box retailers such as Wal-Mart, Costco, and Canadian Tire in its calculations.

The figures are based on the BTAC's quarterly reports of unit and dollar sales, which are provided by 90 percent of the suppliers in its data-capture program.

Road models, which are often used by commuters, showed the greatest increase in dollar sales, rising 32.95 percent. Hybrids were up 15.41 percent, whereas youth sales rose 10.25 percent and 26-inch wheeled models increased by 6.74 percent.

Nearly 15 percent more road models were sold in 2009 over the previous year. Hybrid sales rose 2.63 percent, whereas the 26-inch models fell 19.34 percent. According to the BTAC, sales of the higher priced dual-suspension subcategory in the 26-inch model group grew by 22.78 percent.

In a news release announcing the figures, BTAC executive director Janet O'Connell stated: "It is very important for our members to be able to have this data to evaluate the overall health of the Canadian cycling industry. With an estimated 90% of IBD suppliers participating in this program we are creating solid data, that in turn can be used when advocates are making the case for government to invest in cycling infrastructure across Canada".

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