The NJ E-Bike Law: Day 27 – What the Data from NJ Bike Shops Shows

Last Thursday evening, I held an impromptu call with bike shops across New Jersey. We had representation from all over the state, with 13 participants on the call and 16 shops completing an online survey beforehand.

Today, I want to share what that data shows.

How Dependent Are NJ Bike Shops on E-Bikes?

Seventy percent of participating shops reported that more than 25% of their inventory is tied up in e-bikes.

One in four shops is heavily dependent on e-bike sales.

When that much inventory and revenue is tied to one category, regulatory uncertainty becomes an existential risk.

Rental Programs at Risk

Roughly 40% of shops reported offering e-bike rentals.

That 40% is directly affected by the new law, especially during what should be planning season for spring expansion.

How Shops Are Responding

Most shops are currently in a holding pattern.

Some have already:

• Delayed or canceled planned inventory orders
• Adjusted customer messaging
• Reduced or slowed marketing efforts
• Declined new supplier relationships due to regulatory uncertainty

Very few have attempted to return inventory — largely because it isn’t realistically possible.

None reported fully pausing sales, because businesses still need revenue to survive while awaiting clarity.

Sales Declines Are Already Happening

Nearly 40% of participating shops reported returns, canceled orders, or lost sales directly tied to the new law.

More than one-third are already reporting moderate to significant declines in e-bike sales.

And this is happening during the slow winter season. If uncertainty continues into the spring, the financial impact will likely increase substantially.

Growth and Hiring on Hold

Many shops are delaying inventory expansion, reconsidering customer policies, and questioning whether they can remain fully committed to the e-bike market.

This hesitation limits:

• Growth opportunities
• Hiring decisions
• Consumer access to products

Limited Guidance from Regulators

Almost all shops reported reaching out to lawmakers and advocacy groups.

Very few have received meaningful guidance from regulators, suppliers, insurers, or legislative offices.

Many are navigating this situation largely on their own.

The Bigger Question

Did lawmakers intend for this level of disruption to occur so quickly?

Regardless of intent, the reality is clear: disabled riders and small businesses are feeling the effects immediately.

More time and more careful drafting could have prevented day-one instability.

📂 This update is part of our ongoing NJ E-Bike Law series.
Follow all updates here:
NJ E-Bike Law Playlist on YouTube

📺 Watch the full Day 27 update here: