Riese & Müller Halts US E-Bike Imports After New Steel Tariffs
Last Updated on August 27, 2025 by Kristina
Big changes are hitting the e-bike world. German premium e-bike maker Riese & Müller has stopped shipping bikes to the United States. The company blames new steel tariffs — and the messy, unpredictable trade rules behind them.
Why the Pause?
Riese & Müller told US dealers this week that it’s hitting pause “for the foreseeable future.” The latest spark? A 50% tariff on some imported steel parts, including those from Germany.
But the bigger problem isn’t just steel. It’s the unstable and constantly shifting rules around e-bike imports. The company says it needs time to figure out what these new tariffs mean before moving forward.
A History of Tariff Trouble
This isn’t the first time tariffs have rattled the e-bike market.
- Under the Trump administration, Section 301 tariffs slapped 25% duties on e-bikes and parts from China.
- Those tariffs came and went, creating major uncertainty.
- Then more “reciprocal” tariffs piled on, making things worse for US importers.
- And now, as of July 1, new steel tariffs have added more chaos.
What’s strange here is that e-bikes don’t usually use much steel. Most frames, forks, and wheels are made of aluminum or carbon. But with vague tariff codes and confusing enforcement, Riese & Müller doesn’t want to risk surprise costs or endless paperwork.
What It Means for Riders
In terms of numbers, the impact may be small. Riese & Müller is a high-end, boutique brand. They’re known for cargo and urban e-bikes that sell at premium prices. But this move sends a warning. If a brand like this steps away from the US market, what happens if bigger, mainstream companies face the same issues?
For now, US dealers have been told to sell what they have in stock. No new orders are being taken until the company figures out its next move.
The Bigger Picture
This could be a sign of things to come. Tariff instability is already reshaping how companies look at the US e-bike market. If trade tensions continue, more brands — big and small — may rethink whether selling e-bikes in the US is worth the headache.
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Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
