Last updated on January 4th, 2024 at 03:05 pm
If you were born in the 80s or 90s, you know how much people loved Bike Nashbar – especially their deep discounts!
Personally, I loved reading their catalogs too.
Bike Nashbar was more than just a retailer—it was a symbol of quality, affordability.
However, as time passed, changes in technology, consumer behavior, and market dynamics took their toll, eventually leading to the decline and bankruptcy of Bike Nashbar.
In this article, we will go back in time and find out what happened to Bike Nashbar.
What Happened To Bike Nashbar?
Founded in 1974 by Arnie Nashbar, Bike Nashbar quickly became one of the leading mail order bike companies in the US.
Also Read: Can I Bring My Bike Into Walmart?
In 2000, it was acquired by Performance Bicycle, which used the acquisition to expand its market reach. Performance focused on high-end cycling products while positioning Nashbar as its budget brand.
Seeking further growth, Performance embarked on an ambitious expansion of brick-and-mortar stores, eventually reaching over 100 locations.
However, in 2016 the cycling industry landscape shifted again when Advanced Sports International (ASI) acquired both Performance Bicycle and Nashbar.
This consolidation under ASI aimed to leverage synergies across the brands and strengthen their overall market position.
Unfortunately, changes in technology, consumer behavior and market dynamics gradually took a toll.
ASI struggled financially and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018.
The following year, Amain.com Inc seized the opportunity and acquired the trademarks and web domains of both Performance and Nashbar for $1.245 million.
This enabled Amain.com to preserve these iconic brands, at least in the online realm.
“All good things must come to an end”
What Caused The Bankruptcy?
The main reason was the high costs associated with brick-and-mortar store leases coupled with lower-than-expected sales.
Plus, the rise of online retail giants like Amazon increased competition.
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Globalization allowed companies from different countries to sell directly to consumers worldwide which also brought more competition.
Changes in competition, markets, consumer behavior, affected the sales and overall performance.
Bike Nashbar Alternative – BikesDirect
I highly recommend checking out BikesDirect.
They offer awesome deep discounts by eliminating salesmen, overhead costs and advertising expenses.
This allows discounted prices, typically ranging from 60-70% off!
They have warehouses located in Jacksonville, FL, and Garland, TX, from where they ship their bikes directly to customers.
Also Read: Can BMX Bikes Pedal Backwards?
FAQs
Are Nashbar And Performance Bike The Same Company?
Yes, Nashbar and Performance Bike are both owned by the same parent company, AMain Sports & Hobbies. AMain acquired Performance Bicycle in 2019 and merged it with Nashbar.
