Best of Interbike 2008

Interbike, USA’s biggest bicycle industry trade show was held last week in Las Vegas, NV. Here, brands show off their latest offerings for the upcoming 2009 season. While many argue this show’s timing is all wrong as many 2009 model year bikes are already in dealer showrooms and the rest may be on the water in transit, it is the show where big introductions are usually made.

This year’s show had some growing themes. Themes like 29″ mountain bikes are here to stay. Major brands are keeping a close eye on commuting bicycles as the nations gas prices escalate. The final theme I’ll touch is one they didn’t want to publicize at the show.

29″ mountain bikes

I didn’t want to like these. For those of us shorter than 6′ tall, 29″ bikes are hit or miss in sizing. Many bikes start with a 30″ stand over height making sizing difficult at best. This year brought more 29″ bikes into the limelight. Salsa showed up this year with a very impressive line, including this one, the Selma. Based on 29″ wheels, the frames highlights passive suspension in the rear end. Notice the flattened Scandium chain stays and flattened carbon seat stays (the two parts that make up the rear triangle of the frame with the seat tube)? They help add stiffness to the rear of the bike while providing some relief in the form of vertical compliance.

The Selma is a bike I am seriously considering. Single speed, disc brakes and wheels big enough to make you feel like a superstar: roll over everything. A nice, light package that is sure to bring some smiles out to a trail near you.

Unlimited miles to the gallon

Commuter bikes are growing, but not many in the industry believe these bikes will be the “next big thing.” Commuters are typically looking for a way to save money, not drop multiple thousands of dollars on a new bike. The Civia Loring may make them change their minds.

This new ride features bamboo fenders, gently bended tubing and an awesome front platform for carting around up to 50lbs of goods, perfect for the farmers market or grocery store. I really dig the design here and as someone who jumps on his bike to do stuff around town, the idea of the big platform out front is just fantastic.

Available in a 3-speed model for $1380 and a 9-speed for $1610, these bikes are not cheap. Nothing good ever is.

What the industry didn’t publicize

Speaking of things cheap, here is what you’ve not been told: buy now. If you are considering a bike, go buy a 2008 model now. Do it and do it quick. Several of my contacts in the industry are saying prices are going to jump 15-20% over this years prices. Yes, transportation costs and rising prices in China (where the bulk of bikes are made) are finally headed skyward. These prices will be passed to consumers and industry margins on bikes are not that high to start with. So get out there and start snatching up end of year bikes at good prices before you get locked into next years latest and greatest.