Irvine, California- August 5, 2026- The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is proud to celebrate 80 years of serving and strengthening Specialty Bicycle Retailers.
Founded in 1946, the NBDA was built on a simple but powerful belief: the bicycle industry is stronger when Specialty Bicycle Retailers work together. For eight decades, the association has provided education, advocacy, research, networking, and business resources that have helped retailers navigate change, overcome challenges, and build stronger, more profitable businesses.
The milestone was celebrated during a special virtual 80th Anniversary Celebration held on August 4, bringing together current and former Board members, Executive Directors, staff, industry leaders, suppliers, and retailers from across North America to reflect on the association's history and look ahead to its future.
Throughout the evening, attendees celebrated the many volunteers whose leadership has guided the organization over the past eight decades. The NBDA has always been governed by Specialty Bicycle Retailers serving Specialty Bicycle Retailers, with Board members volunteering their time while simultaneously operating successful businesses. Their dedication has helped shape an association that continues to serve as the voice of Specialty Bicycle Retail.
The celebration also recognized the leadership of former Executive Directors, including Fred Clements, whose 27 years of service helped transform the NBDA into one of the bicycle industry's most respected trade associations. Under Fred's leadership, the association expanded its educational programming, research initiatives, advocacy efforts, and retailer resources, creating a strong foundation that continues to benefit retailers today.
Current Executive Director Heather Mason reflected on the association's legacy and its future.
"Eighty years is an incredible milestone, but what makes me most proud isn't our history, it's our community," said Mason. "The NBDA has always been about bringing people together to make Specialty Bicycle Retail stronger. Every volunteer Board member, every staff member, every supplier partner, and every retailer who has invested their time, ideas, and passion has helped shape who we are today. As we celebrate where we've been, we're even more excited about where we're going."
Today, the NBDA continues to support Specialty Bicycle Retailers through programs including Retailer University, Retailer Summits, advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, industry research, educational webinars, networking opportunities, member savings programs, and business resources designed to help retailers become more profitable, resilient, and successful.
As the bicycle industry continues to evolve, the association remains committed to its mission of strengthening Specialty Bicycle Retail through collaboration, education, advocacy, and community.
To commemorate its 80th Anniversary, the NBDA is inviting Specialty Bicycle Retailers, suppliers, manufacturers, nonprofit organizations, industry professionals, and cycling advocates from around the world to become part of its next chapter.
Throughout the month of August, all new annual NBDA memberships are 80% off.
Whether you're a Specialty Bicycle Retailer looking to strengthen your business, a supplier committed to supporting the specialty channel, or an individual passionate about the future of cycling, there has never been a better time to join the NBDA community.
Simply use the promo code NBDA80 when joining to receive 80% off any new annual membership throughout August.
Melanie Fry, NBDA Membership Coordinator, believes this anniversary is the perfect opportunity for new members to experience everything the association has to offer.
"Our 80th anniversary isn't just a celebration of where we've been, it's an invitation to be part of where we're going," said Fry. "If you've ever considered joining the NBDA, there has never been a better time. We want more retailers, suppliers, and industry professionals from around the world at the table, sharing ideas, learning from one another, and helping build a stronger future for Specialty Bicycle Retail. We're excited to welcome new members into our community."
Mason added:
"Our first 80 years were built by people who believed that working together makes all of us stronger. We invite the global bicycle community to join us as we build the next 80 years together."
To become a member, visit the NBDA website and use promo code NBDA80 during checkout.
About the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA)
The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is the leading nonprofit trade association dedicated to strengthening Specialty Bicycle Retailers and advancing the bicycle industry. Guided by its mission to support retailers through education, research, advocacy, community, and business resources, the NBDA empowers bicycle retailers to build stronger, more profitable, and more sustainable businesses. Representing more than 1,000 members across North America, the association provides industry-leading education, market research, peer networking, advocacy, and cost-saving member programs that help retailers adapt, grow, and thrive in an evolving marketplace. Led by Executive Director Heather Mason and governed by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of industry leaders, the NBDA is committed to its vision of Leading Specialty Bicycle Retailers to Excellence. To learn more, become a member, or explore the association's programs and resources, visit NBDA.com.
