Over 27,000 people attended the 2015 edition of the Cycle Show and, although official figures haven’t been released yet, the 2016 incarnation expected to welcome more. All forms of cycle enthusiasts passed through the doors at Birmingham’s NEC; from BMXers to mountain bikers, and road bike enthusiasts to those keen on cyclo-cross. The event was packed with more exhibitors than ever before, each one displaying the newest innovations in the world of cycling, as the Cycle Show celebrated its 15th anniversary.
A Hero’s Welcome for British Olympians
It really has been a memorable summer for fans of British sport and, in particular, cycling. Expectations were high as the Team GB cyclists headed to Rio 2016 and they did not disappoint, bringing home twelve medals in total, including six Golds. At this year’s cycle show it was a chance to welcome home the Olympic heroes, with guest appearances from gold medallists Ed Clancy, Joanna Rowsell-Shand and Callum Skinner, as well as former Olympians Dani King and Chris Boardman. Ned Boulting was the man who interviewed each cyclist live on stage, providing those watching with an illuminating insight into the life and training of an Olympic medal-winning athlete! In particular, it was interesting to hear Ed Clancy talk of how the Gold he won in Rio was even more special to him than his London 2012 medal, because of the hard work and dedication he had to put in.
Innovations and Trends
With extra space for more stands added, even more cycling related products were on display. Bike companies added to the show, like Halifax-based Orange Mountain Bikes, Cannondale and Shand Cycles, drew huge crowds of people eager to get a look at the latest designs on offer. Cycle wear specialists Fad Lad At The Back, from Keighley in West Yorkshire, proved exceedingly popular with their range of high-quality gear suitable for cyclists of all shapes and sizes.
One of the 2016 show’s defining trends was the growing popularity of e-bikes. Cycle retailer Halfords recently ran a survey in which it reported two out of five people now believed that e-bikes were an effective means of transport and, judging by the number of people flocking to the Shimano Steps E-Bike Village, this definitely transmitted to the show. E-bikes are no longer the clunky, unfashionable cycles of the past, today’s editions are sleek and stylish. We particularly liked the Whyte Coniston, which disguises the motor as a water bottle!
Other inspiration for 2017 came in the form of the growing accessibility of the cycling holiday. The Holiday Village provided a wealth of affordable options when it comes to cycling at home or abroad. From Snowdonia to Mallorca, the world is becoming smaller and smaller when it comes to taking your bike to some of the most scenic destinations. Last, but not least, the West Midlands Police gave a pertinent and informative presentation on bike security and how best to prevent theft. All in all, it was a great show and we just cannot wait for next year’s event!
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