By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter
The sale of different kinds of bicycles has slowed down in various stores in Doha with summer setting in, a supervisor of a leading sports shop has told Gulf Times.
“The slump in sales is more this year, compared to the same period last year,” he explained. Bicycle sales usually soar towards the end of summer and continue throughout winter. “Many buy a new bicycle or upgrade their old bike and replace some of its accessories.”
Coinciding with the arrival of summer, many cycling enthusiasts have shifted to other physical activities and hobbies. Some have decided to sell their expensive bicycles and buy good cameras to try photography, according to the supervisor, who joins other cyclists in some of their races and weekly rides.
Some groups found mixed martial arts (MMA) a more “engaging and challenging” sport, especially during the summer period when cycling may not be fun.
This was evident from the huge sales of MMA equipment and apparel such as uniforms, gloves, punching bags and other gear.
A local MMA player said their membership has also increased in the past two months and many individuals have expressed interest to join their group.
Sales of other indoor sport equipment, such as table tennis tables and rackets, darts and badminton, have also surged.
Many Qataris and high-income expatriates, the supervisor noted, prefer water sports such as swimming and diving. Others go for high-end adventure such as jet skiing and yachting.
But for other bike enthusiasts (mostly expatriates), toy collection (Gundam models) is more interesting and exciting, especially to those who will be taking their annual vacation.
However, the supervisor expressed optimism that the demand for various types of bicycles would continue once the weather improved and also on account of the rapidly increasing population and the growing popularity of cycling in the country.
With Qatar hosting the World Cycling Championship next year, he said the event would create a huge impact on many residents, especially those who are passionate about cycling.
As the temperature has started to rise, organisers of bicycle races are expected to take a break for a few months and instead take evening and early morning rides.
“In the current calendar of events, we have only one race remaining for this part of the year,” said Qatar Chain Reaction founding member Ben Keane. “We have a Team Time Trial to be held in May but competitions will shut for the summer.”
