Find HS Code and trade information for bike bell

Bike Bell

A bike bell is a signaling device mounted on a bicycle to alert pedestrians, other cyclists, and drivers to the cyclist’s presence. It is a safety component intended to increase visibility and prevent collisions.

Material

Bike bells are commonly constructed from the following materials:

• Brass: Traditional material, known for its clear, resonant tone. More expensive and requires polishing to maintain shine.
• Steel: Durable and affordable. Offers a brighter, less nuanced tone than brass. Often chrome-plated for rust resistance.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Produces a higher-pitched sound.
• Plastic: Least expensive option, generally used on lower-end bicycles. Tone quality is typically lower than metal bells.
• Titanium: High-end material, very lightweight and corrosion-resistant, offering a distinct tone.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a bike bell is safety. It serves to:

• Alert others: Warn pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists of the cyclist’s approach, especially in situations with limited visibility.
• Communicate intent: Indicate a desire to pass, or signal presence at intersections.
• Legal compliance: Required by law in some jurisdictions.

Function

Bike bells operate mechanically. Striking the bell’s dome (or button) causes a clapper or striker to hit the bell’s body, generating sound.

• Lever-activated: Most common type; a lever on the handlebar is squeezed to activate the bell.
• Twist-grip: Activated by twisting a grip on the handlebar.
• Push-button: Activated by pressing a button.

Usage Scenarios

• Urban cycling: Essential for navigating city streets and alerting pedestrians.
• Bike paths and trails: Used to signal passing other cyclists or pedestrians.
• Road cycling: Alerting motorists to the cyclist's presence, especially when overtaking or approaching intersections.
• Mountain biking: Warning hikers or other trail users of approach.

Common Types

• Ding-dong bells: Classic, recognizable sound. Typically brass or steel.
• Spurcycle bells: High-end bells known for their clear, resonant tone and durable construction. Often made of brass or stainless steel.
• Electronic horns: Battery-powered horns offering a louder, more distinct sound than traditional bells. Often feature multiple sound options.
• Mini bells: Compact bells suitable for lightweight bikes or those prioritizing a minimalist aesthetic.
• Retro bells: Bells with a vintage design, often made of brass.

Based on the material, use, function, and application scenarios, a bike bell is a non-electric signaling device typically made of base metal, used for alerting pedestrians and other cyclists.

The following HS codes are relevant:

• 8306100000: Bells, gongs and the like, nonelectric, of base metal; statuettes and other ornaments, of base metal; photograph, picture or similar frames, of base metal; mirrors of base metal; and base metal parts thereof. This code specifically includes “Bells, gongs and the like, and parts thereof”.
  • 83: Chapter 83 covers miscellaneous manufactured articles of base metal.
  • 06: Heading 06 focuses on articles of base metal, including bells and similar signaling devices.
  • 100000: This subheading further specifies nonelectric bells and related items.
  • Tax Details: The base tariff is 5.8%, with no additional tariff currently, but a 30.0% additional tariff will apply after April 2, 2025. The total tariff is currently 35.8%.

Regarding HS code 8306100000, it is important to confirm the material composition of the bell to ensure it qualifies as a “base metal” item.