BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news

The Japanese company is to erect a new-build factory in China, adding to its existing plant at Kunshan.

On 17th March, BikeBiz.co.uk asked 'Is it safe to travel to the Taipei show'? It probably is, but 'probably' isn't much of a prophylactic. On 24th March, BikeBiz carried the first 'come to Taiwan, all is safe' message from the organisers of the Taipei cycle trade show. Now, US trade mag BicycleRetailer reports that many Americans are not going to risk the journey because of worries about SARS, and the Shimano stand will be staffed largely by Taiwanese employees. Even EBMA's Brian Montgomery - a habitué of cycle shows around the world - has cancelled. However, most Brits pro-booked for the show are still planning to go, and are now expecting to have the show to themselves!

Acorn has snapped up a neat brake pad set from Promax of the US. The pads feature integral LEDs which light up when pressed to the rim. And, the British-designed seatpost pump, mentioned on this site in October, is getting closer to market.

Two years on the trot, Shimano products have been awarded design awards from the prestigious iF agency of Hannover

The awards - which include a category for best bike shop - will be held on the Saturday night during the Bike Show 2003 at the Metropole Hotel, close to the NEC.