SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA (BRAIN)—Interbike is installing Portland Design Works’ Circulus—a 132-foot circumference (40.2m), 45-degree wooden mini-velodrome inside the Sands Expo and Convention Center.
Circulus will be setup next to the Urban Lounge, home of the Interbike City Style Fashion Show, and The Pub, a new beer garden and bar located on the show's street level expo space. Show attendees will be able to hang out, ride All-City Cycles bikes on the track and compete in events on the first and second days of the show, including the PDW/Paved Pro-Am Classic at Circulus.
"Circulus will add something completely new and unique to this year's show," said Interbike brand and communications director Rich Kelly. "We're placing a big emphasis on urban cycling and the brands that support it and having Circulus there will be a big draw for that segment of the market. And, of course, I can't wait to take a spin on it myself."
Normally housed at PDW's headquarters, Circulus will be dismantled, transported to Las Vegas and reassembled for the 30th edition of the bicycle industry's annual trade show.
"Over the years, we've watched urban cycling grow to be on par with any other segment of cycling. We love that, and believe the universal appeal of Circulus is a reflection of the passion and vibrant growth of urban cycling," said PDW co-founder Dan Powell. "We can't wait for folks to hop on and turn some hot laps on the show floor."
Outdoor Demo is also getting some new life in the form of an Oasis— a 40 foot by 40 foot tented area with tables and seating as well as misting machines to offer a spot to cool off and rest between demo rides.
"We are going out of our way to make sure dealers and exhibitors are cool, hydrated and have access to great food throughout each day," said Pat Hus, Interbike's new managing director. "We want everybody to get the most out of this event and keeping people comfortable is our No. 1 goal. We're investing in a number of initiatives to support this effort including a greatly expanded array of food options, shaded and cooled seating oasis, additional water stations, and, for the first time, cold beer for attendees at the end of the day."
New amenities begin with free coffee served at the registration tent in the mornings to help kick start the day, continue with new food offerings from local gourmet food trucks and are topped off with complimentary cold beer for the shuttle ride back to the Sands Expo Center after a full day of riding.
Additional upgrades include new changing stations near the registration tent and an ice cream truck with complimentary cold treats will be added to the festival.
An earlier start on the second day will add an hour of riding during the cooler morning hours to the Demo's busiest day. New hours will be from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 12 and 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 13.
"We've heard this request from dealers for a few years now and have decided that this is the year to add to the demo," said Andy Tompkins, the show's director. "I really think people are going to see some significant improvements on what is already a great event."
