In terms of actual display bikes, yes the all-mtn bikes were everywhere (probably due to the intro of 650b and 'enduro', fat bikes, and e-bikes). That said, yes there were far and away more carbon hardtail frames hanging on walls through the exhibition center, but they weren't being used as 'show bikes' at nearly the number as years past. The Taipei show is very much a venue for manufacturers to show off their capabilities to potential clients, and the carbon hardtail doesn't wow the way it once did.
Right! In addition to your point about the "wow" factor, which I agree with, I think it also implies there is a perception that the long travel trail bike market has a lot of growth potential and manufacturers want in on that. Whether it does or not is yet to be determined, but the abundance of these bikes tells me that at least Taiwan thinks it does.
The Catalan Rider
3/19/2015 11:36 AM
Nicholast
3/19/2015 8:46 AM
That's very interesting because in terms of number sold, XC hardtails far outsell long travel trail bikes. Like, by a lot.
LTrumpore
3/19/2015 9:02 AM
Nicholast
3/19/2015 9:16 AM