Sunset at PDX Bicycle Show
A definite thumbs up for the 2012 PDX Bicycle Show! Promoters Aaron and Adriana pulled off yet another great show attracting a few more manufacturer’s and bike shops to the new location at the Expo Center in north Portland. When first announced of the move from the downtown Convention Center I was a little skeptical, but it proved to be a shrewd move as the set-up and take-down was a breeze. Parking, always an issue at the Convention Center was non-existant at the new venue. In addition to the parking, easy in and easy out, outdoor test rides and the free next door “Better Living Home and Garden Show” made the price right for attendees.
Sales reps Keith Seed (Orbea), Chuck Hook (Ridley) John Forbes and I (Roger Colwell) talked with tons of people both days. Seems everyone wanted to learn more about the electronic shifting found on the Orbea Orca and the Ridley Noah. It was fun to see eyes light up as the derailleurs moved so quietly with a simple push of a button. No cable stretch here!. The Orbea Capre was also a big hit – very cool Portland-ish flat bar bike with hydraulic disk brakes. Lots of bicycle “touchy-feely” going on at the booth.
Seemed to me a higher representation of families visiting this years event, which was great to see. Not uncommon to see 3-7 year olds cruising around pedal powered as well as on their “scoot” bikes. Several of the little tikes took on some of the trick ramps that the “big boy free riders” were hitting. Our booth backed right up to the demo area, so we got a first hand look at all of the goings on.
Great Show which promises to be bigger and better next year. Here are some photos of this year’s event. Enjoy! Be sure to visit the Bike Portland.org for additional photos and review.
Sunset Cycles' Blog 