Laguna Beach, CA -- If excitement, attendee registration, and overflow of exhibitors give any indication, Interbike 2002 will again mark the time and place where the bicycle industry converges to present the best of what's new in the world of bikes.

With just three weeks to go, show organizers are putting the final touches on a nearly sold out 2002 Interbike floor plan and exhibit space in Las Vegas' Sands Expo & Convention Center is at a premium for North America's largest bicycle trade show. In fact, many could-be exhibitors are lining up and adding their names to the waiting list, hoping to be inked into the action.

Recognized for delivering consistent attendance, pre-registration in the retailer category for Interbike 2002 is on par with last year and the enthusiasm from retailers and exhibitors to get out and test the newest products at Interbike's Outdoor Demo is at an all-time high, with well over 4,000 individuals already planning to pedal Blue Diamond, Nevada and its surrounding singletrack and paved loops on October 5th.

While official pre-registration has ended, attendees can still get their show badges processed in advance for $25 per person. Registering before the show saves on time, registration lines, and paperwork - allowing you to hit the floor running, first thing, Day One.

At the end of each show day, the excitement continues with events like Interbike's Oktoberfest Industry Block Party, which gives attendees the chance to network with industry friends while enjoying festive food, free beer, and live music from the bluesy-chicken-pickin-funky-rockpig-power-trio, Greg Koch and the Tone Controls. Attendees can check out the Oktoberfest Block Party 2002 adjacent to the Sands Convention Center and behind the Imperial Palace from 6:30-9PM on October 6th, where sponsors like Giant Bicycles will present a trials and stunt demonstration, and other sponsors CatEye, Tireflys, K2 Bike, and Sigma Sport will be doing their share to make it a great time for everybody.

Also, Interbike attendees can join the trade's movers and shakers while benefiting Safe Routes to School, at the Bicycle Industry Awards Celebration. Outstanding effort and achievement in the world of bicycles will be celebrated on October 7th at the Hardrock Hotel and Casino's hip nightspot, The Joint.

Extended hours are one of the new retailer and exhibitor benefits at Interbike 2002. VIP early access passes are being granted to retailers with pre-show appointments, allowing them an extra 2 hours of floor time each day. For those who have scheduled early morning meetings, exhibitors can pre-order VIP early access passes (page I-9 in the Interbike Exhibitor Service Manual) for retailers or arrange to have retailers pick them up on site at the Interbike Concierge Desk.

Held once a year, Interbike is North America's largest cycling trade show, attracting over 20,000 attendees from around the world. Prior to the show, Interbike hosts a one-day Outdoor Demo allowing buyers and media a chance to test the latest in bikes and cycling equipment. Interbike is produced by VNU Expositions, a full service event management company. The next chance to see the future of the bicycle industry will be at Interbike in Las Vegas, Nevada, October 6 - 8, 2002. The Outdoor Demo will be held October 5th in Blue Diamond, Nevada.

For more information, please visit www.interbike.com

— Posted by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Gear Editor