HANCOCK, MA (BRAIN)—The Kenda Bikefest presented by Dirt Rag magazine, formerly known as Pedro’s Fest, brought in more than 1,500 people this past weekend to the Apple Tree Organic Farm in Hancock, Massachusetts.
“I think everyone went away from it feeling good,” said Jim Wannamaker, marketing director for Kenda. “I think everyone walked away with a positive experience.”
Plenty of big names were in attendance for this family friendly event including Trek, GT, Thule, Clif Bar and Pedro’s just to name a few.
Highlights of the three-day event included a screening of the mountain biking documentary Klunkerz on Friday night with cast member and mountain biking legend Charlie Kelley in attendance, and a mountain bike scavenger hunt ride on Saturday night, where roughly 170 riders participated, according to Wannamaker.
It wasn’t just big name companies that were in attendance. Big name riders were also there including Eric Carter and Brian Lopes.
Wannamaker said one thing that could be improved upon for next year is the trails.
“The trail system is hit and miss,” Wannamaker said. For beginner to slightly advanced riders the trails hit the mark. “Some riders want more advanced trails. That’s the one thing we need to talk about.” Wannamaker thinks these improvements can be accomplished at the current venue.
Wannamaker got to spend some quality time with his 10-year-old son, who had a blast on the kid friendly ramps and stunts at the venue.
“This type of event has great potential,” Wannamaker said. “Lot of families were out there. There were a lot of different events for the kids.”
For more on this story and what manufacturers had to say about the event, be sure to read the September issue of Bicycle Retailer and Industry News.
—Jason Norman
