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