Electra Bicycle Company & Wowbikes open a flagship store in Abu Dhabi inside Virgin Megastore

Dubai, UAE, 20 March 2024 — Electra Bicycle Company & Wowbikes have inaugurated a new flagship store in Abu Dhabi, located within the Virgin Megastore at Yas Mall.  The specially branded zone will serve as a new hub for cycling enthusiasts, embodying the essence of Electra & Wowbikes in the emirate.

This unique space in Virgin Megastore not only features bicycles by the Electra brand but also showcases a diverse range of handcrafted manual and electric bicycles from renowned European and English manufacturers. Unique city-bikes from brands such as RUFF, Benno, Pashley, Schindelhauer, Moulton, and Vello are available there, along with cycling accessories by Brooks and ULAC. Inside the specially curated zone in Virgin, customers can receive expert guidance from brand consultants employed by the Electra & Wowbikes.

Wowbikes is a premier multi-brand bicycle boutique, offering a curated selection of top-notch bicycles. Its flagship store in Dubai, operating under the name Electra Bicycle Company since March 2023 on Bluewaters Island, serves as a haven for cycling enthusiasts. Beyond the island, Wowbikes extends its presence with dedicated retail spaces strategically positioned in prestigious Virgin Megastore outlets, including prominent locations such as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. This dynamic network ensures that cycling aficionados have convenient access to a diverse range of high-quality bikes and accessories.

“Yas Island stands as a premier destination for cycling lovers, and we are elated to unveil our flagship establishment in Abu Dhabi, strategically positioned within this promising area. As enthusiasts of cycling culture, we are pleased that Abu Dhabi already boasts excellent infrastructure, which we anticipate will further develop in the near future. We firmly believe that many residents of the emirate will soon integrate cycling into their daily lives, as it offers a joyful, ecological, and healthy mode of transportation, while also serving as a wonderful source of family leisure activities”, commented Raimond Mednis, CEO of Wowbikes and the Electra Bicycle Company division in the UAE.

Best areas for cycling in Abu-Dhabi

• Yas Island

The island of Yas is encircled by an impressive network of bicycle tracks, making it a true haven for cycling enthusiasts. Apart from enjoying the pleasure of riding along urban cycling routes, there’s also the opportunity to experience the unique Yas Marina Circuit track. This extraordinary circuit, which hosts Formula 1 races, opens its doors to cyclists on select days, allowing anyone who wishes to ride their bicycle there to do so. To find out when you can ride at Yas Marina Circuit, you need to keep track of the schedule on the venue’s website.

 

• Hudayriat Island

 

Hudayriat Mar Vista provides cycling enthusiasts, both beginners and experienced riders, with 5 to 10 kilometers of cycling trails to enjoy. These tracks traverse through a recreational park and alongside lush green areas.

 

The main cycling network establishes connections in both north-south and east-west directions along significant road pathways and green expanses. In addition, the secondary network within local communities with lower population densities offers shared cycling amenities.

• Al Raha Beach

The area surrounding Al Raha Beach has become quite popular with cyclists. If you prefer to avoid using bridges, you have the option to either complete a circuit starting from Al Zeina bridge to Al Hadeel and return, or take the opposite route starting from Al Hadeel down to Lamar Residence.

• Corniche

The picturesque Corniche in Abu Dhabi spans an impressive eight kilometers of well-maintained waterfront, featuring amenities such as children’s play areas, designated paths for cyclists and pedestrians, various cafes and restaurants, and the breathtaking beach supervised by lifeguards. If you’re seeking to bask in Abu Dhabi’s renowned sunshine throughout the year, this pristine beach stands as one of the prime destinations.

• Al Wathba

 The Al Wathba Cycle Track stands out as one of the most exceptional and picturesque cycling spots in the UAE. Set amidst vast expanses of desert, this location’s otherworldly scenery even served as a backdrop in the film Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The track offers various routes catering to different skill levels. Novice cyclists can opt for either the 8-kilometer or 16-kilometer routes, while more experienced riders can challenge themselves with the 20-kilometer, 22-kilometer, or full 30-kilometer routes.

About the Company

Wowbikes is a premier multi-brand bicycle boutique, offering a curated selection of top-notch bicycles. Its flagship store, operating under the name Electra Bicycle Company since March 2023 on the Bluewaters Island, serves as a haven for cycling enthusiasts. Beyond the island, Wowbikes extends its presence with dedicated retail spaces strategically positioned in prestigious Virgin Megastore outlets, including prominent locations such as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. This dynamic network ensures that cycling aficionados have convenient access to a diverse range of high-quality bikes and accessories

Electra Bicycle Company specializes in the production of comfort bikes. It was founded in 1993 in California, USA. The company has its representative offices in the American, European, and Russian markets. Electra annually updates its model range which features bicycles for comfortable riding. These include cruisers, classic Northern European bikes (Dutch bicycles), traditional European bikes, comfortable city bikes, beach, vintage and electric bikes, as well as a lineup of children’s bikes. The range includes accessories that allow you to customize the bike, from bells to baskets, as well as cycling clothing. Electra uses the patented Flat Foot Technology to manufacture bikes, which allows for effortless pedaling and provides an anatomically correct riding position by lowering the center of gravity for better control while cycling. Now being a part of the Trek Bicycle Corporation, Electra is recognized as the world’s leading manufacturer of comfort bikes.

RUFF Cycles is a distinctive brand known for its unique and bold approach to bicycle design. Originating in Germany, RUFF Cycles has gained recognition for crafting unconventional and eye-catching bicycles that blend vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. The brand’s commitment to creativity and innovation is evident in its diverse range of urban bikes and custom components, appealing to cycling enthusiasts seeking a blend of style and performance. With an emphasis on individuality and a rebellious spirit, RUFF Cycles has carved out a niche in the cycling industry, offering riders a distinctive riding experience.

Vello is an innovative bicycle brand celebrated for its commitment to folding bike design and portability. Originating from Austria, Vello has earned acclaim for its sleek and compact folding bicycles that seamlessly integrate convenience with performance. The brand’s dedication to cutting-edge engineering is reflected in its range of foldable bikes equipped with advanced features, catering to urban commuters and adventurers alike. Vello’s emphasis on functionality and design has positioned it as a noteworthy player in the cycling market, offering riders a stylish and practical solution for on-the-go transportation.

Benno Bikes, founded in 2015 by Benno Baenziger, is a notable bicycle brand recognized for its emphasis on utility and versatile design. Hailing from the United States, Benno has gained acclaim for creating practical and adaptable bicycles that cater to the needs of modern urban living. The brand’s commitment to functionality is evident in its range of cargo bikes and commuter-friendly models, designed to offer convenience without compromising style. Benno Baenziger’s innovative approach to bike design, with a focus on utility and comfort, has positioned Benno Bikes as a reliable choice for riders seeking practicality and versatility in their daily commuting and lifestyle.

Moulton is an internationally recognized bicycle manufacturer. The company was founded in the UK in 1962. The bicycle was designed by Alex Moulton, who developed MINI cars in the 1950s. He introduced an innovative technology, the FLEXITOR® hydraulic suspension, which compensates for road vibration without losing pedalling energy. Moulton has a track record of numerous innovative technologies that have redefined cycling, including the reduction of weight and increasing the rigidity of the structure by means of a space frame made of aerospace grade steel. Moulton bikes hold the world upright bike speed record of 82 km/h. Moulton bikes are used in ultra-distance time trials.

Pashley is a British bicycle manufacturer with a rich heritage dating back to 1926. Based in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Pashley is renowned for crafting high-quality and traditional bicycles. The company specializes in hand-building a diverse range of bicycles, including classic city bikes, traditional roadsters, and timeless tandems. Their bikes often feature elegant designs, sturdy frames, and attention to detailEach bike is assembled by a team of experienced craftsmen who build the bikes individually to ensure a high level of quality and durability. Pashley bicycles at various times could be found in the collections of King George V, Queen Elizabeth II, and King Charles III.

Brooks is a renowned brand specializing in cycling accessories, known for its commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Founded in 1866 in England, Brooks has established itself as a leading manufacturer of premium bicycle saddles, handlebar grips, and other cycling-related gear. The brand is celebrated for its traditional leather craftsmanship, combining timeless design with advanced technology to create durable and comfortable products. With a rich heritage in the cycling industry, Brooks continues to be a favorite among cycling enthusiasts who value both style and functionality in their biking accessories.

Schindelhauer is a German brand recognized for its sleek and minimalist approach to bicycle design. Founded in 2009 in Berlin, the company has gained acclaim for producing high-quality urban bicycles that seamlessly blend form and function. Schindelhauer Bikes are characterized by their clean lines, durable frames, and innovative belt drive systems, offering a low-maintenance and efficient alternative to traditional chain-driven bikes. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and emphasis on urban mobility make Schindelhauer a popular choice for cyclists seeking a stylish and reliable means of transportation in city environments.

Ulac is a prominent brand specializing in bicycle accessories, renowned for its commitment to innovative design and security solutions. Founded in Taiwan, Ulac has established itself as a leading manufacturer of high-quality bike locks, helmets, and other cycling-related accessories. The brand is known for its focus on combining functionality with contemporary aesthetics, offering cyclists stylish yet reliable solutions for their safety and convenience. Ulac’s products often feature advanced materials and cutting-edge technology, reflecting the brand’s dedication to providing cyclists with top-notch accessories that enhance their riding experience while prioritizing security and style.