Velofollies 2026: 300 exhibitors, 600 brands, and unlimited inspiration

Slovenia as Guest of Honour: An Emerging Cycling Paradise

Cycling holidays are more popular than ever, whether for family outings, recreational trips with friends, or performance-focused group rides. This year, Slovenia takes center stage with a dedicated pavilion showcasing more than 20 regions, hotels, and cycling tourism providers. The country is rapidly establishing itself as a top destination for MTB, gravel, and road cycling and is home to global stars such as Tadej Pogačar, Primož Roglič, and Matej Mohorič. At the Slovenia Outdoor Pavilion, visitors can find inspiration for recreational rides, adventurous trips, or competitive challenges. Routes, accommodations, and local cycling activities provide a full picture of Slovenia as a versatile and bike-friendly destination.

Positive Market Outlook Driven by E-Bikes and Bicycle Leasing

The Belgian cycling market enjoyed a strong start last year, aided by a favourable spring and good weather that boosted demand for new bikes. Bicycle leasing remains a key growth driver, offering attractive employee benefits such as salary-based deductions linked to commuting allowances, making higher-end models more accessible.

The continued popularity of e-bikes also contributes to market growth: the latest models offer improved battery technology, longer ranges, faster charging, sleek designs, and smart features such as GPS, heart rate monitoring, and theft prevention.

In e-race and e-gravel bikes, the difference with traditional bikes is increasingly subtle: modern systems add only a few kilos, maintaining a natural, responsive ride even at higher speeds.

Integration, Aerodynamics & Weight as Performance Drivers

Road and mountain bikes continue to focus on performance, with aerodynamics and lightweight designs leading the way. Bikes are increasingly designed as integrated systems, where frame, wheels, cockpit, and accessories work seamlessly together for maximum efficiency and aerodynamic advantage.

Wider tires improve grip and comfort, while lighter materials and integrated cabling boost efficiency. Handlebars are narrower for a more aerodynamic riding position, and MTB suspension systems are smarter and more responsive. In the road segment, single-chainring drivetrains are increasingly popular, simplifying gear shifting, reducing weight, and offering subtle aerodynamic benefits. E-bikes are also making their way into the performance segment, making hilly rides, long distances, and headwinds more manageable.

Gravel bikes, now a fully established category, reflect the same trends: wider tires, integrated suspension for comfort and control, optimized drivetrains, and lightweight, versatile designs suitable for daily use or bikepacking. Sports nutrition also receives increasing attention, with scientifically formulated products helping amateur and touring cyclists efficiently replenish energy, inspired by professional riders’ strategies.

Components, High-Tech, and Sustainability

Velofollies 2026 will highlight the three leading component suppliers: Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo. Visitors can explore the latest groupsets, shifting systems, and high-end electronic and mechanical innovations suitable for both amateurs and pros.

High-tech features such as integrated GPS, heart rate monitoring, automatic suspension, and advanced battery technology with smartphone charging capabilities are becoming standard. Safety innovations, such as reflective or illuminated coatings that improve visibility in autumn and winter, are also gaining popularity.

At the same time, sustainability is increasingly a priority: from recycled aluminum, bamboo, and biodegradable lubricants to new manufacturing processes that reduce environmental impact. This focus extends to cycling apparel, with PFAS-free fabrics and technical innovations making riding more enjoyable and eco-friendly than ever.

Velofollies 2026 takes place from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 January, open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Friday. Tickets are available online for €15 via www.velofollies.be.

Practical Information

• Dates: 16–18 January 2026

• Location: Kortrijk Xpo

• Opening Hours: Friday 16 January 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 January 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

• Tickets: €15 online via www.velofollies.be