Sara Clampitt - MONTAGUE

How long has MONTAGUE been coming to Interbike?

Five or six years in a number of different capacities. This is really the first time that we have had such a big presence here because we have really got something to say.

What is your focus for the show this year?

The focus for the show this year is to tell everyone about our product. Make people understand that you can have a full size mountain bike that folds but still maintains the strength and structure of the bike........ a cool looking product. This is the largest gathering of cycling industry representatives from all over the world. What is your take on the general attitude for 2002?

I can speak from a niche cycling manufacturer's perspective and what I'm seeing is that a lot of big brands are going mass market. People are wary and they are unsure in terms of what is going to happen with retail and distribution. We are very much behind the IBDs (Independent Bicycle Dealers)....... we are very much behind the niche market dealers and we see that 2002 for us is going to be a fantastic year.

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

We stand out in the crowd in terms of how the tragedies of the last two weeks are going to affect not only our company but the industry itself. We make bikes for the military and what we've seen over the last week is the most dramatic increase in the number of military divisions that are really looking to grassroots....... back to the bicycle.........which has in the last century really been eradicated from the military as a vehicle. They are all looking at the bicycle as an alternative to tanks and walking infantry. I think that is the most significant thing that's happened........ it's a silver lining to an incredibly black cloud.

Are you happy with this year's show?

This has been and still is the most unbelievable show for us...... so....... yeah!