Interbike 2009 - Day 1: Gear & Accessories

Day one of Interbike has been very busy with visiting as many manufacturers as possible.  I have been focusing on bicycle-related gear & accessories, whereas Nathan focused on the bikes/components/hardware.

Pacific Outdoor Equipment has entered into the bicycle pannier scene about two years ago, and had two sets on display: their lightweight "LTW" series (in green), and a more durable, heavyweight series (in silver), which feature welded seams and 270-degree reflective coverage.  They have also designed a bag specifically for the B.O.B. trailer. http://www.pacoutdoor.com

Baja Designs has been known for their desert racing lighting systems, and has recently entered the bicycle lighting scene with the "Strykr."  However, they are calling this an 'adventure light' since it has many more mounting options than just mountain biking, including kayaking, diving (10m), caving, motocross, etc.  The wrist mount looked pretty cool. http://www.bajadesigns.com

 Security being very important in all types of bicycle travel, Pinhead launched its brand new "Bubble Lock Technology" at this 2009 Interbike show.  They call this a 'one-key lock system,' meaning that the same key is used for locking the front & rear wheels, headset, and u-lock. http://www.pinheadlocks.com

From the land of kiwis comes a heavy-duty rack for full-suspension & rigid bikes alike: Freeload.  To demonstrate its payload capacity, one of the designers stood on the rack!  So in addition to carrying panniers, this rack could act as a rickshaw in case of an emergency. http://www.freeload.co.nz

Famous for their backpack & hydration systems, Deuter has recently entered the bicycle pannier market.  Their "Rack Pack" series mount to Ortlieb racks via their Quick Lock system. http://www.deuterusa.com

On the more elegant side of things comes Brooks with their "Devon" rear travel panniers & "Cornwall" handlebar bag.  To complete the kit for your next adventure are leather handgrips and a leather saddle (seat).  Some attendees thought this bike belonged to Jonathan Hanson, Executive Editor of Overland Journal. http://www.brooksengland.com

Another interesting new security debut was the "Modulus" from Kryptonite.  This security system features a base with two ports for locking cables, with a wide variety of applications from commuter bikes to roofracks. http://www.kryptonitelock.com

Zimbale from Boise, Idaho makes a nice under-the-seat padded camera case, as well leather saddles. All of their bags feature waterproof cotton canvas, leather, and heavy-duty stitching. http://www.hydeparkcyclesports.com

The "Big Dumb Pug" custom bike from Banjo Cycles / Planet Bike - which is a combination of Surly's "Pugsley" and "Big Dummy," offers plenty of cargo carrying options & payload capacity. http://www.banjocycles.com