Today, I visited the annual bike show, this year held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. This is the first year in Birmingham after years at Earl’s Court, London. Cycle Show 2011 was all the better for the change of venue. Much larger than before, with a more relaxed, open plan atmosphere it was a great day out, and a chance to moon over the latest in bike technology and fashion. I know several readers were interested, so I tweeted stuff as I went around and took some regular photos too, 50 of whichwhich I’ve uploaded to my Flickr account.
If you’re into cycling, thinking about getting into it, or just fancy people in fluorescent jackets and lycra, it’s a fun show. You can test ride bikes, talk to manufacturers and buy kit at decent prices. It’s on all weekend and finishes late Sunday. It’s just over a tenner to get in, but if you like cycling it’s a bargain. For those interested in cycling for people with special needs, there are some fabulous custom machines on show, as well as electric bikes, BMX and road machines, accessories and clothing.
To visit the flickr stream, please click on any image below.
Yes, this bike is made of bamboo. Yes, it's commercially available, and owners swear by it. I'm a traditionalist, and find this all a bit mad, frankly.
But not that much of a traditionalist. Nice bike, but those leather panniers must weight a ton. Condor make some lovely machines, though.
Electric bikes were very much in evidence this year. Personally, I think they're cheating, but they do seem to be improving in both build and technology. Some are scooters, really, rather than bikes.
Wheels for Wellbeing make and sell bikes for people with special needs. I was very impressed with their approach and products. They're not cheap, but the quality speaks for itself.
Belt drive technology is really beginning to mature. It feels as good as a conventional chain, but with none of the oil or noise. I'm keen to try this out on one of my bikes.
The fashion for coloured, CNC machined components seems to be passing, but I did rather like these, particularly the jockey wheels.
One of my favourite bikes of the show was this Mixte frame ladies bike by Linus. This is a classic, strong female specific frame design, traditionally common on the continent. A gorgeous machine.