Electric bikes grab attention at NZ Bike Expo

About 3500 people attended the first NZ Bike Expo, exceeding expectations.

Electric bikes were the outstanding new feature, with many trying them out on the airfield at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand in Christchurch on October 28-29.

“We are absolutely stoked with the response to the expo,” event owner Cycling Action Network (CAN) spokeswoman Jo Mackay says.

“We had very positive comments from exhibitors, many of whom want us to hold it again next year.” She says CAN achieved its aim to create a consumer show for a wide range of people who enjoy all types of biking.

More than 65 exhibitors showcased bicycles, electric bicycles, bike componentry, gear, accessories, clothing, bicycle tours, trails, parks, events, nutrition, and much more.

Many came to try e-bikes. “We counted 23 different electric bike brands at the expo,” event manager Krissy O’Connor says. “Most were available to test ride.”

The top prize among 22 offered was an eScoozzi Jack Hot L3 electric scooter, won by Neil Baxter from Christchurch.

Industry X brought blcktec, Black Inc, Factor bikes and Swift to New Zealand, with expo visitors the second only world audience to see some of the 2018 season gear.

At least 20 exhibitors showcased bike parks, trails, events, and tours from around the South Island and the world.

“About a quarter of people in Christchurch are on a bike at least once a week, so it was the right place to hold our first expo,” Mackay says.

The expo ended the month-long festival ‘Biketober’ that featured 50 bike-related events in Christchurch.

Visit nzbikeexpo.nz

for more information, including dates for the next bike expo.