As a rookie Interbike attendee, my goal for the opening day of America's largest bicycle trade show was to "take it all in." For those who haven't had the privilege of attending Interbike, it is a massive sensory display of all things involving the bicycle. To "take it all in" in one day is an idealistic (and unrealistic) challenge, and one quickly realizes why the show lasts three days. Here's some of the sights you'd see while walking around the first day:
SRAM received the greatest amount of floorspace at the Sands Expo Center and utilized every square inch of it. A massive, spinning graphic could be seen from almost anywhere in the building. Hundreds of attendees lined up to meet one of cycling's most popular "hard men," Jens Voigt, who was signing autographs at the SRAM booth. Shimano also had a massive booth, complete with a similar circular banner above their space - except it didn't spin.
Bianchi's display area was easily found - the Italian manufacturer's booth has more celeste than one can shake a stick at, including celeste bike stands, celeste banners, and even celeste carpet.
Although Surly's booth had a life-size centaur statue (for apparently no reason other than to attract attention), the most eye-catching display of the day was that of Australian accessories manufacturer, Knog. An enormous, black cube covered in what appeared to be industrial-strength bubblewrap garnered a lot of attention.
The "Big S" had a big presence at Interbike 2010. Their booth was one of the largest and was completely enclosed by "VIP ropes." Attendees had to have their credentials scanned before being allowed inside. Specialized highlighted their displays with plenty of yellow, a nod to their first Tour de France victory this year, courtesy of Alberto Contador.
One of the most coveted items in cycling, Sidi shoes were on full display at Interbike.
The Castelli booth was easily recognizable, thanks to a 15-foot tall scorpion banner. The clothing manufacturer displayed products from years past, while highlighting its current collection.
The Italian Pavilion display area was organized by the Italian Trade Commission and featured products from... you guessed it, Italy. One of the most crowded booths in the Italian Pavilion was Colnago's.
Pinarello had one of the most eye-catching displays of bicycles on the first day of Interbike. Several road and TT models were arranged in a "Flying V" pattern, reminiscent of migrating birds. Other models were displayed on walls surrounding the "V" platform.
While the longest line of the day was the beer line, the second longest line was to meet the greatest cyclist of all time, Eddy Merckx. "The Cannibal" had a smile all afternoon while he signed autographs and posed for pictures with fans.
...and in case you missed it, check out Kansas Bob's coverage from Interbike's DIRT DEMO! |