With all the hype surrounding the opening of the National Cycle Network and the National Cycling Festival 2000, Futures Bike 2000 show at the NEC, 28-30th April, hasnt had much of a look-in...

Bike 2000 lives

Up to 40 000 enthusiasts are expected to turn up at the NEC at the end of the month to see the usual thrills, spills and trade stands. In amongst all the retailers, there are a few non-selling exhibitors.

Marin never attends, Scott pulled out two years back but notable absences this year include Trek, Specialized, and Cannondale. Giant had a big stand last year although this year they are building the try-out track instead and this will be draped in Giant banners and other promotions.

The lack of stands from the ‘sexy’ brands perplexes Michael Bonney of Orange because Bike 2000 will be the companys key show of the year: Wed notice it if we werent there. It would effect our business. If some of the other key brands arent there that means more people on our stand!

The publicity machine is grinding away right now with show mentions expected in Stuff, Maxim and other lifestyle magazines. House ads in Future titles will bring in the core audience. SSM are handling the PR. Competitions for bikes and tickets have been organised in The Times, Midlands newspapers and radio stations.

EXHIBITORS

Bike Trax

The Fridge

Pace Cycles Ltd

Neilson

Hope Technology

Pashley Cycles

Upgrade

KE Adventure Travel

Leisure Lakes Mountain Bikes

Chamberlaine Cycles

Terrain Mountain Bike Sport

Dawes Cycles Limited

Cyclone Cycles

Muddy Fox UK Ltd

Mountain Cycle UK

Middleburn Engineering Ltd

X-Lite Competition Components UK

Animal/Orange

Sunset Mountain Bikes

Cycosport

Terry Wright Cycles

Northern Ireland Tourist Board

Alp Active

Single Track Bikes

CM Dear Cycles

Irish Tourist Board

Cyprus Tourist Board

Bigg in Bikes

Radical Style

Plain Lazy

Raleigh Industries

Tony Wilkinson Ltd

Peak Performance

Leisure Systems International Ltd

Riding High

Kelvin Cycles

Evans UK Ltd

Ride MX Limited

Be One Team

Race Doctor

Ozone Cycles

Tattoo Clothing

Rocket Pro

Freeborn

East Coast Distribution

M.Bardiger

Bike Magic

The National Cycle Register

Cornwall County Council

Drop On Carriers

Cycle Active

ATK Midlands

Russell Sales Limited

Isle of Wight Tourism

KIS Promotions

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