THE EARKOWAY JOURNAL

The riding world.
In motion.

Technology, industry and policy.
A considered look at what’s moving cycling forward.

SOURCE REVIEW · 24 SEP 2026

Independent editorial summaries of official announcements. Observations are our interpretation, not evidence of partnerships, endorsements or product compatibility.

01
Market outlook

Europe’s bicycle market finds firmer ground.

European Cycling Industries’ 2026 market report points to a more balanced bicycle sector. Its 2025 data records 15.618 million bicycle and e-bike sales across Europe, down 2.6%, while production remained stable. Inventories continued normalising as manufacturers adjusted output to demand.

THE ACCESSORY PERSPECTIVE

For accessories, the emphasis is on useful upgrades, dependable availability and long-term value.

The report was published in 2026; the market figures describe 2025. This summary uses the public announcement, not the paid report.

European Cycling Industries · original source
02
Connected riding

A more connected e-bike cockpit.

Bosch announced a Live Data Interface connecting its smart system with selected Garmin Edge cycling computers. Riders can view data including power, cadence and battery charge. At announcement, the integration was available through Garmin’s Public Beta programme, with broader connections envisioned.

THE ACCESSORY PERSPECTIVE

Connected cockpits put a premium on secure mounting, readable positioning and clear compatibility information.

Beta status describes the announcement on 4 May 2026, not a claim about current availability. No earkoway compatibility is implied.

Bosch eBike Systems · original source
03
Rider visibility

Rear visibility gets a richer picture.

Garmin introduced the Varia RearVue 820 radar tail light with alerts that distinguish approaching vehicle sizes, track lateral movement and indicate threat levels. The device also adds brake-light signalling and USB-C charging, reflecting continued development in connected rear-visibility equipment.

THE ACCESSORY PERSPECTIVE

The launch draws attention to rear visibility, reliable mounting and practical charging. These are industry observations, not features of SQUARE.

Manufacturer announcement. Radar and alerts do not replace attentive riding. SQUARE is not a radar product.

Garmin · original source
04
Policy update

California extends e-bike rear-visibility rules.

From 1 January 2026, California Vehicle Code §21201(f) applies the rear reflector-or-light requirement to e-bikes at all hours. The light option specified in §21201(d)(2) is a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector. This is a California rule, not a nationwide US approval standard.

THE ACCESSORY PERSPECTIVE

A light’s color, mode and reflector arrangement should be checked against the intended place of use.

Date shown is the rule’s effective date. This does not establish SQUARE compliance.

California Legislature · original source
05
Cycling policy

Everyday cycling moves up the agenda.

The European Commission’s first progress update on the European Declaration on Cycling highlights infrastructure and national policy measures. It reports €4.5 billion earmarked for cycling during 2021–2027, including €3.2 billion from EU funds, while identifying remaining needs around parking, charging and bicycle transport.

THE ACCESSORY PERSPECTIVE

Everyday cycling infrastructure reinforces the role of practical luggage, weather protection and visibility accessories.

News published 1 October 2025. Funding covers 2021–2027; it is not a new annual budget.

European Commission · original source

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