Innovation at European cycling industry meetings in Brussels

As part of the programme, Associate Professor Lesley Ingram-Sills presented to the ECI Members Day Off-Road Cycling Expert Group in Brussels, Belgium.

Lesley shared the significant progress being made through Bike Innovation Scotland, the partnership between Edinburgh Napier University and South of Scotland Enterprise.

The presentation highlighted several major developments currently underway in Scotland, including:

• The development of the Caerlee Mill Bike Campus, due to open in Summer 2027.
• Continued development of the Living Trail Lab and associated research and innovation activities.
• Preparations for Scotland hosting the IMBA Europe Summit 2027.
• The role of Bike Innovation Scotland in connecting industry, academia and public sector partners to accelerate cycling innovation.

The visit provided an important opportunity for Edinburgh Napier University to share Scottish expertise while contributing to discussions shaping the future of cycling across Europe.

What is the ECI Off-Road Cycling Expert Group?

Of particular value was continued participation in the ECI Off-Road Cycling Expert Group, which brings together international organisations, destinations, industry representatives and researchers to discuss the development of sustainable off-road cycling and mountain biking.

Through its involvement, Edinburgh Napier University is helping ensure that Scottish perspectives, research and innovation activity are represented within wider European discussions.

NextGen Mechanics Report 2026

The Brussels meetings also coincided with the release of the NextGen Mechanics Report 2026, an initiative supported by Shimano and industry partners to address future workforce and skills requirements within the cycling sector.

The report's focus on developing the next generation of cycle mechanics and technical professionals aligns strongly with Bike Innovation Scotland's ambitions to support talent development and strengthen the cycling innovation ecosystem.

Participation in these European working groups provide an invaluable opportunity to share the work taking place in Scotland while learning from colleagues across Europe.

We look forward to continued engagement through these groups.

This will help ensure Edinburgh Napier University and Bike Innovation Scotland remain connected to international developments and collaborative opportunities across the cycling sector, supporting Scotland's growing reputation as a centre for cycling innovation, research and skills development.