Interbike 2008: Fuel Price Gets Americans Cycling

LAS VEGAS, US – It is the money again and not the environment. Rising fuel prices made bicycles more attractive as means of transportation for the Americans. This will be the major issue at the upcoming Interbike which kicks off today Wednesday September 24th after the two days OutDoor Demo in Bootleg Canyon.

Bicycle retailers report increases in new bike sales and in repair orders of older bikes as well. Capitalizing on the momentum, bicycle and accessory manufacturers are planning on launching a broad range of new products at Interbike.

In the next few days it will become clear what effect the credit crisis will have on the bicycle industry and dealer expectations for the coming season. This financial crisis came very near last week with the announcement that SRAM might have to take a pause for finalizing its equity partnership with Lehman Brothers Merchant Bank after its mother Lehman Brothers Inc. filed a Chapter 11 petition.

“The bicycle industry is in a very exciting position,” said Andy Tompkins, Interbike’s show director. “Consumers are looking for ways to save money, and they are looking to bikes to help them do that, both in their daily life and for recreation.”

A new event at Interbike this year is the Urban Legend Fashion and Art organized in close cooperation with Momentum Magazine. “This will help feature the great gear, bikes and apparel that have been recently introduced for the increasingly important urban and transportation cycling categories,” said Rich Kelly, Interbike’s communication manager.

The Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show will highlight a range of stylish, smart, sexy and professional clothing that fit into everyday life and work great on a bike. Models will be sporting urban and casual cycling wear, not the typical Lycra shorts or jerseys, while riding urban, folding, utilitarian and commuting bikes.

Interbike is a trade-only event and will be held at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas, US from September 24-26.