How long has GARY FISHER been coming to Interbike?

Forever....... the first name of his company was "Mountainbike"...... the problem was that he forgot to trademark it. It became the generic name for whole new bike.

What is your focus for the show this year?

Introducing the new........ what we think is the new answer to mountainbiking........ the "29er"...... which is a larger wheeled mountain bike that offers better traction...... and it's faster. We're also introducing new suspension bikes with adjustable travel called the Sugar Plus. They are both coming out this fall and that's what we were concentrating on introducing at this show.

This is the largest gathering of cycling industry representatives from all over the world. What is your take on the general attitude for 2002?

The general attitude is "opportunity"....... that's what I felt around here. Some of the people are claiming that some of the big companies have gone on financial tough times....... and they think that it's the state of the industry......... but I think it is not the state of the industry but rather...... they had some business issues. The state of the industry is very solid and consistent.

Will the Sept. 11th attacks on America and its effect on the economy change any of your business plans for 2002?

We're watching that very closely....... obviously a tragic day....... but at this juncture we haven't seen and big effects but...... that depends on the obviously on the economy. The one thing people have to remember about the bike industry is that the last time we have had recessions....... people tend to think about alternative modes of transportation....... and alternatives for vacations and other things...... the bicycle is a natural for those.

Are you happy with this year's show?

Very....... One of our best shows ever.