Breaking News: U.S. Imposes Up to 50% Steel Tariffs on Steel-Framed E-Bikes

America’s Commerce Department has widened its 50 % tariffs on steel and aluminum derivatives—this time targeting finished goods such as steel-framed electric bicycles (e‑bikes). These changes stem from a mid‑August regulatory update, and the consequences could be far-reaching for both global supply chains and consumer pricing.

1.  What Just Happened to Steel-framed e-bikes?

On August 15, 2025, den U.S. Commerce Department expanded its 50% tariffs by adding 407 harmonized product codes to the list of steel- and aluminum-containing items subject to duties  . This expansion came into effect on August 18  .

Just days later, industry publications confirmed: the steel content in e‑bikes, indoor trainers, tract trainers, and steel tools will now be taxed at up to 50%, except for imports from the U.K., which face a reduced rate of 25%  .

2.  Why E-Bikes Are Affected

The new tariffs target steel-containing finished goods. That means steel-framed e-bikes and similar products—previously exempt—are now subject to the 50% rate. Even though the tariffs apply specifically to the steel portion, many importers fear customs authorities will enforce duties based on the full product value  .

3.  Broader Context: From Pause to Expansion

Earlier in the year, e-bikes remained largely untouched by steel tariffs. In fact, a February notice from PeopleForBikes stated that bikes and e-bikes were exempt from the then-anticipated tariffs  .

Meanwhile, in July, a temporary “90-day pause” on reciprocal tariffs was extended until August 1  . But once that pause lifted, the administration moved swiftly to broaden the tariff scope.

4.  What This Means for the Bike Industry & Consumers

• U.S. industry caution: Publications like Bicycle Retailer warn that the inclusion of e-bike components and trainers under steel tariffs has thrown supply chains into uncertainty  .
• Price pressure incoming: Analysts predict consumer prices for bikes could increase significantly. Previous tariff hikes—ranging from 20% to 125%—had already pushed industry-wide price increases approaching 50%  .
• Domestic impact: Companies like Kent International report shrinking sales and find themselves “caught in a quandary” as even domestically assembled products rely heavily on imported components  .
• Shifts to U.S. production: Some domestic brands are trying to reduce reliance on Chinese parts, but currently, about 90% of components still originate abroad—making shielding from tariffs challenging  .

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What’s Next?

• Supply strategies: Manufacturers may shift sourcing to steel from tariff-exempt countries or move assembly domestically.
• Advocacy & relief: Industry groups are likely to lobby for exclusions, duties relief, or phased implementation.
• Consumer cost: Expect price increases. Supply constraints could compound the impact.