Additional factors contributing to the U.S. bike boom included affordable and versatile 10-speed derailleur-geared racing bicycles becoming widely available, the arrival of many post-World War II baby boomers at adulthood and demanding inexpensive transportation for recreation and exercise, and increasing interest in reducing pollution.
The U.S. bike boom was driven by factors such as the availability of affordable, versatile 10-speed bikes with derailleurs, the emergence of a new generation of adults (baby boomers) who desired inexpensive transportation for recreation and exercise, and growing awareness about environmental pollution.