All carbon footprints

What’s the carbon footprint of a mountain bike?

The average mountain bike emits
100.00-150.00 kg CO₂e

Available to measure with Arbor’s platform
The carbon footprint of a typical mountain bike ranges from approximately 100 to 150 kg CO₂e, reflecting the environmental impact of manufacturing, materials, and transportation involved in production. Understanding these emissions helps brands and consumers assess and reduce the lifecycle emissions of bicycles.
Why do product carbon footprints (PCFs) matter?
Carbon Equivalent Calculator

What is a mountain bike's carbon footprint equivalent to?

Using Arbor’s Carbon Equivalent Calculator, let’s see what the average a mountain bike’s carbon emissions are equivalent to, assuming an average of 125.00 kg CO2e.

How can you reduce a mountain bike's carbon footprint?

Here are 3 ways you can lower the carbon or decarbonize your a mountain bike’s carbon footprint.

Sustainable Frame Materials

Choose recycled or sustainably sourced raw materials for frame construction.

Lightweight Components

Opt for locally produced components to cut transportation-related emissions.

Material Optimization

Opt for factory-finished components to reduce manufacturing emissions.

Arbor's platform

Want to measure the carbon footprint of your mountain bike?

We make product-level carbon accounting simple, reliable, and tailored to bicycle.

Mountain Bike
Manage
Mountain Bike
Carbon footprint
125.00 kg CO₂e
Versions & Prototypes
Versions
Carbon footprint
Mountain Bike
Active
125.00 kg CO₂e
Mountain Bike 2024
125.00 kg CO₂e
Mountain Bike 2023
125.00 kg CO₂e
Prototypes
Carbon footprint
Mountain Bike - 20% Recycled
125.00 kg CO₂e

FAQs

What is the carbon footprint of a mountain bike?

The carbon footprint of a mountain bike is approximately 125 kg CO2e. This includes manufacturing, transportation, and disposal, making it a relatively eco-friendly choice compared to many motorized options. The range can be between 100 and 150 kg CO2e depending on materials and production methods.

How much CO₂ does a mountain bike emit?

A mountain bike typically has a carbon footprint of around 125 kg CO2e. This estimate accounts for manufacturing, materials, and transportation, reflecting the overall emissions involved in producing and distributing the bike. Keep in mind, riding it does not emit CO₂ but can reduce your personal emissions by replacing car trips.

What are the main sources of emissions from a mountain bike?

The main sources of emissions from a mountain bike include manufacturing, especially the production of frames and components, and transportation to stores or riders. Maintenance and end-of-life disposal also contribute but to a lesser extent. Overall, a typical mountain bike has a footprint of about 100-150 kg CO2e.

How do I calculate the carbon footprint of a mountain bike?

Arbor provides the best way to calculate the carbon footprint of a mountain bike. Alternatively, you can use emission factors and conduct a life cycle assessment (LCA) following standards to estimate the footprint. Typically, a mountain bike's carbon footprint ranges from 100 to 150 kg CO2e, with an average of around 125 kg CO2e.

Is a mountain bike sustainable?

A mountain bike can be considered sustainable because it produces around 125 kg CO2e, which is relatively low compared to car travel. Its environmental impact depends on factors like manufacturing, materials, and usage. Overall, riding a mountain bike reduces your carbon footprint by offering an eco-friendly transportation alternative.

How can companies reduce the carbon footprint of a mountain bike?

Companies can reduce a mountain bike's carbon footprint by using sustainable materials like recycled aluminum and carbon fibers. Additionally, optimizing manufacturing processes and sourcing components locally can cut emissions. On average, a mountain bike's carbon footprint is around 125 kg CO2e, but with these practices, it can be significantly lowered.

Are mountain bikes bad for the environment?

Mountain bikes generally have a moderate environmental impact, with a typical carbon footprint around 125 kg CO2e. Manufacturing, especially frame and component production, contributes most to this. However, they are reusable and promote outdoor activity, making them a more eco-friendly transportation option compared to cars.

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