In theory, it's a nice idea but when one considers that most ebike sellers are very small businesses, then the sheer logistics of actually presenting demo bikes, staff and still running the base premises becomes an enormous, time-consuming and expensive undertaking.
It requires considerable dedication and enthusiasm from dealers in order to take time out to put on such a show, not to mention more than a little dosh! I'm not convinced that the potential rewards are sufficiently attractive to justify such expenditure and I'm sure that's probably the major reason why the event isn't taking place...at, least, as far as I'm aware. Moreover, while it may suit a few of our number to have a jolly over a couple of days in a foreign country, the venue is a little out of the way and unlikely to attract a cast of thousands from all over the country, so limited footfall.
Although this forum attracts lots of posts on a variety of topics, the actual number of regular, active posters isn't that many and while there may be quite a few readers who don't post, in reality how many of our little band would actually commit to turning out for the TDP?
There is an alternative. If there is genuine interest from enthusiastic members of this forum and others, perhaps they could band together and stage an event, bringing along their own bikes so everyone gets a chance to ride the different bikes there. If a decent day or weekend could be organised, perhaps some of our trade members might be inspired to make the effort?
Apologies to other correspondents who have already said as much.
Indalo
Effectively what our Kudos roadshows are all about. We have picked locations in a beautiful area where we can erect our gazebos,assisted by a local dealer and invite as many ebike enthusiasts as we can reach,we want all marques not just Kudos users.
To be honest the organisation is not that difficult and is not expensive. The biggest problem is the marketing and getting people out of their cosy houses and coming to the middle of nowhere to meet up with fellow pedelecs.
We invite all on our database,let our existing customers know,invite the sustainable transport managers from councils and big employers in the area and push it as hard as we can on forums such as this. But in the end its down to you guys to make the event a success,if nobody turns up all the effort seems wasted. We distributed thousands of leaflets for the 2012 Redbridge event, in the end abour 100 turned up,all agreed it was a great day and we are doing it again in 2013.
The Hambleton event is based around a wonderful pub,the Finch's arms and the Manifold Trail event is near some wonderful old country pubs,as time gets nearer we will announce more definite details to make these events very social gatherings.
But we can't cover the whole country,other ebike suppliers could do more-Storck did a similar event in the lake district and Atmosphere did the hillclimb race in Bristol.
Cycle shows such as the NEC are all very well but they are expensive and the London Green fairs are limited by the small test tracks available-just look at the hills either side of the Manifold Trail near Waterhouses to see what a real test you can experience with these venues.
I invite all the other marques to take part in the Redbridge event,the cost is minimal. To date only Cyclezee has accepted my invitation,its a shame because this could become something really big,the test circuit is superb.
Dave
Kudoscycles