Source: RadMarkt

Austria’s bicycle industry is anticipating positive results from upcoming political developments, with a new subsidy for e-bikes and traditional bikes being discussed, and the reintroduction of the popular Reparaturbonus (repair bonus) for electrical items including e-bikes and, more recently, non-electric bikes.

Subsidies for e-bikes and bikes

The federal budget for 2025/26 was approved in June, followed by discussions on the structure of the Klimaaktiv Mobil funding program. An initial coordination meeting between Austria’s Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure and representatives of the bicycle retail trade were scheduled for July 30, with a goal of establishing cooperation within the e-bike and bike funding program’s framework. The aim is to create incentives for sustainable mobility in the coming year.

Return of the repair bonus

The repair bonus scheme was temporarily suspended in May 2025 when funds were exhausted. The Federal Ministry for Climate Protection has now advised that the program will resume towards the end of this year. Alongside other electrical items, e-bikes are eligible for reimbursement through the program, and since September 2023, traditional bicycles have also been included. VSSÖ, the Association of Austrian Sporting Goods Manufacturers and Retailers, advocates for equal treatment of all repair shops under the scheme, ensuring that those which are not exclusively operating in the bicycle sector are eligible – thereby broadening the reach of the program.

Austria’s Bicycle Regulations

Potential amendments to Austria’s Bicycle Regulations are also under discussion. With a goal of improved, practical regulations, key points include alignment with European product standards and vehicle types, alongside the use of trailers for the transportation of children and cargo.