Prof. Samantha Clarke
A South Bay native, Clint Hough, found himself unemployed in late 2021 when he was laid off from his boat engine repair job. With only a few remaining COVID-19 unemployment checks, Hough took a leap of faith. He purchased four electric bikes and decided to resell them while sitting on a beach chair on Hermosa Avenue. Surprisingly, all four bikes sold during the first weekend, setting off a trend.
As more bikes sold over the following weekends, Hough took a significant step to expand his business. He rented a storage area in a building behind where he sold the bikes. The success continued, leading Hough to launch Trick Electric Bikes in Hermosa Beach, offering 250 bikes for sale and rent. The business grew so brisk that Hough had to hire four employees to keep up with the demand. In addition to selling well-known brands like Adventure, Pace, and Velotric, Trick Electric Bikes also provides bike rentals for two to eight hours, as well as repair services.
When Hough initially opened the bike shop in January 2022, he faced another gamble. He informed the landlord that he didn’t have the money for rent right away. However, to Hough’s surprise, the landlord responded with understanding and instructed him to move in, assuring him that the rent would be dealt with later. Furthermore, Hough dealt with another challenge when he first moved in – a lack of inventory. He had to strategically arrange the bikes to create the illusion of a full shop.
Hough’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t start with electric bikes. Raised in Manhattan Beach, he began working in a car parts store when he was just 15 years old. Eventually, he became the owner of the shop. After its closure, Hough ventured into various businesses, from running a website and granite business to kitchen cabinet and home remodeling ventures. It was while working on boats that the pandemic disrupted Hough’s life, leading to his layoff and subsequent investment of his last unemployment checks into electric bikes.
The popularity of electric bikes has soared for several reasons. Initially, people sought them as a means to enjoy outdoor activities on The Strand, especially after its closure due to COVID-19. Moreover, electric bikes have become a convenient option for the elderly, allowing them to effortlessly cycle longer distances or handle uphill terrains confidently.
Clint Hough’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, adaptability, and seizing opportunities even during challenging times. His risk-taking and entrepreneurial spirit not only turned his last unemployment checks into a thriving business but also paved the way for providing sustainable transportation options in the community.
The success story of Clint Hough and his Trick Electric Bikes reflects a broader trend in the electric bike industry, which has experienced significant growth in recent years. The increasing popularity of electric bikes can be attributed to several factors.
First, the demand for outdoor activities and alternative modes of transportation has surged during the COVID-19 pandemic. With restrictions on indoor gatherings and limited access to public transportation, many individuals have turned to electric bikes as a way to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining social distancing.
Additionally, electric bikes have gained traction among the elderly population. The electric assist feature allows them to travel longer distances and tackle challenging terrains with ease, making cycling more accessible and enjoyable for older adults.
Market forecasts indicate continued growth in the electric bike industry. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global electric bike market size is projected to reach $37.8 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.0% from 2020 to 2027.
This growth can be attributed to several factors, including increasing environmental consciousness, government initiatives promoting sustainable transportation, and advancements in technology that have made electric bikes more affordable and efficient.
However, the industry is not without its challenges. One key issue is the lack of infrastructure to support electric bikes, such as dedicated bike lanes and charging stations. Without proper infrastructure, the full potential of electric bikes as a viable mode of transportation may be hindered.
Additionally, there are concerns about the safety and regulation of electric bikes on public roads. As the number of electric bikes on the streets increases, it becomes crucial to establish clear guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety of riders and pedestrians.
To learn more about the electric bike industry, you can visit reputable sources such as Grand View Research, which provides market research reports and insights on various industries, including the electric bike market.
