MEP François Kalfon to open European Cycling Industries’ first Bike Demo Day in Brussels

MEP François Kalfon will officially open the first ECI Bike Demo Day on 30 September 2026 at the Residence Palace in Brussels, launching a new outdoor showcase that will give participants the opportunity to test ride innovative bicycles from across Europe.

The Bike Demo Day, supported by Decathlon, adds a new dimension to European Cycling Industries’ (ECI) annual Cycling Industry Summit. From 12:30 to 17:30, the space outside the Residence Palace will be transformed into a private test track, where a curated selection of bicycles representing the diversity and innovation of the European cycling industry will be available for test rides.

With cargo and urban mobility to performance bikes available to ride, the activation aims to bring the people working in the EU quarter closer — literally — to the bicycles, and the companies behind them shaping the future of European mobility.

MEP Kalfon has been a strong supporter of cycling initiatives at European level and will formally open the Bike Demo Day with a short address. A press opportunity for attending journalists will follow the opening remarks, with the opportunity for questions and photographs on site.

MEP François Kalfon said:

“In Brussels, the political debate is often focused on cars, planes and railways. I regret it, because the European bike industry has the potential to deeply decarbonise transport, to create thousands of green jobs and to strengthen our industrial sovereignty. So, I am very happy to join the European Cycling Industries on September 30 for the Bike Demo Day, to put the EU bike industry, professionals and innovation back in the center of the political discussion. We need to put Europe back on the cycling path, not only for the planet but also for EU industry and workers”

Paul Walsh, CEO of European Cycling Industries, said:

“We spend a lot of time in Brussels talking about cycling. On 30 September, we’re also going to ride some instead. With the Bike Demo Day, we want to give the people working in the European institutions a chance to experience the industry directly — to see the bikes, meet the people behind them and take one for a lap. We are delighted that MEP Kalfon’s continuous support in raising awareness for the cycling sector and its untapped potential for Europe.”