Yesterday, the gates of the SPEZI show closed, and with them, another chapter of this great event. And a new one is opening for 2026.
For nearly twenty-five years, the world’s largest special bike show was held in the small town of Germersheim, near Karlsruhe, until COVID interrupted it for three years, right at the moment when the 25th anniversary was approaching. We finally celebrated that milestone in 2023, and with new organizers, the show’s location also changed. From kind of central Germany, SPEZI moved far south to the village of Lauchringen, right at the Swiss border. However, this phase is also coming to a close, and next year SPEZI will move to a new location.
The team behind the recumbent brand Wolf & Wolf not only proved themselves as capable organizers but also elevated the event to a new level. Hosting the show in a former textile factory surrounded by industrial halls, with two fantastic test tracks, created a unique atmosphere. This was further enhanced by an excellent program of lectures, evening concerts, and delicious food.
The good news is that the organizing team will remain the same—only the venue will change. There are essentially three reasons for the move. First, the reconstruction of the old factory is beginning, turning the “fairground” into a construction site. Second, the electrification of the local railway line is about to start, which would make access to the venue much more complicated. And third, the new location will place SPEZI closer to a larger population and offer significantly better accessibility by both train and the major German highway A5.
In 2026, SPEZI will relocate to a city about 50 km / 31 miles northwest of Lauchringen: Freiburg im Breisgau. A true cycling city with a strong cycling community, Freiburg is close to the French border and still near Switzerland. It’s about an hour’s drive to Strasbourg in France or Basel in Switzerland. There is definitely a lot to look forward to—and honestly, we’re already excited!
A full report from this year’s edition of SPEZI, along with a video, will be published on RECUMBENT.news in the coming days.
Finally, here is an official press release from the SPEZI organizers.
SPEZI says goodbye to Lauchringen: See you in Freiburg!
With a vibrant cycling celebration, the International Special Bike Show SPEZI bid farewell to Lauchringen. The next edition will take place on April 25 and 26, 2026, in Freiburg.
At the exit of the event, the organizing team — Florian and Gabriel Wolf along with Franz Furmaniak — displayed a large banner to mark the occasion. Next year, this internationally renowned special bike expo will be held for the first time at Messe Freiburg in Breisgau. Gabriel Wolf hopes the move will give SPEZI another boost: “SPEZI has always showcased solutions for the mobility of the future. Freiburg is a true cycling city, where people already live that mobility in their daily lives. We’ll be reaching an even broader audience there — it just makes sense!”
His brother, Florian Wolf, also emphasized Freiburg’s excellent transportation connections and the possibilities the Messe Freiburg venue offers: “We’re excited that Freiburg will be easier to reach — even without a car — for people coming from further away. Plus, the exhibition halls offer even more space for modern display and event concepts.” What won’t change, he assures, is the heart of the event: “We’re taking the personal atmosphere, the focus on trying out bikes, and the great vibes with us to Freiburg.”
Gratitude and excitement at the farewell
“The decision to leave the Lauchringen community in Waldshut County wasn’t easy,” says local organizer Franz Furmaniak. “Lauchringen welcomed us with open arms and supported us in every possible way. We especially want to thank the local clubs and political leadership!” He reflects on the past three editions held at the Lauffenmühle site, which made it possible to relaunch the show after the COVID break and the handover from SPEZI founder Hardy Siebecke. “2025 was the best SPEZI we’ve ever had — a full-on festival of bikes and mobility,” Furmaniak added.
More than 6,000 visitors explored the latest trends in special bikes and alternative mobility from 101 exhibitors, test-rode bikes, talked shop, and enjoyed a fantastic atmosphere.
Voices from SPEZI 2025: “The crowd is amazing”
As always, SPEZI charmed attendees with its signature friendly vibe, attracting both exhibitors and visitors alike. Joachim Leffler, representing the Berlin-based accessory brand Fahrer Berlin, attended SPEZI for the first time and was already thrilled on Saturday morning: “The crowd is incredible! So professional and engaged — we’ve never seen anything like it at any other trade fair.” The team from Fahrer is already planning to return next year. “Freiburg has even better accessibility, and we expect even more people. We’re already looking forward to it.”
The same excitement could be felt at Ansmann, a manufacturer of drive systems and battery packs. “This was our first time exhibiting — we’ve only ever visited before. But next year, we definitely want to come back,” said Sven Plewa, Key Account Manager for Drive Technology at Ansmann. The visitor feedback was outstanding, and he and his colleague were “practically overwhelmed” at their booth.
“Always totally thrilled”
Franziska Bosselmann from cargo bike maker Mäx und Mäleon also reported many positive conversations with customers. “It’s our third year here, the atmosphere is great, and as always, we’re totally thrilled.” Frank Regge from lighting specialist Busch & Müller shared a similar experience: “These are people who really know what they’re talking about, asking very specific questions. People who are genuinely passionate about bikes — it’s fantastic.”
Carsten Hage from handbike company Tretzeug appreciates the friendly exchange between like-minded enthusiasts. His conclusion: “I don’t know of any other show that has such a festival-like feel.”
For some exhibitors, the strong turnout and energy made leaving a bit emotional. “It’s a little sad to leave Lauchringen,” said Heiko Truppel from the Hessian recumbent manufacturer HP Velotechnik, “but we know one thing for sure — SPEZI will always be SPEZI, and the new location won’t disappoint.”
See the virtual tour of the exhibition center.


