Interbike seemed 98% sporty-techy, 2% utilitarian.  More big manufacturers are offering city bikes, like Globe (Specialized) and Raleigh, as well Civia had a nice presence, Batavus was there and Breezer too.  We (as the new Gazelle distributors) rounded out the "European Village" section of the show floor with a pure city/utility bikes display.  The Gazelle Cabby and Bloom attracted much attention. 

Manufacturers are definitely warming to the concept of bikes dedicated to transportation, but they still don't understand the ergonomics and use cases for true utility bikes or everyday city bikes.  Much of what I saw were still fashion exercises, but good ones at that - like the Raleigh Superbe and Alley Way.  All these bikes are still hybrids and some even categorized as road bikes. 

The full chain case, other than on some Breezers, has yet to feature on these "American" bikes.  I do like the application of the Gates/Carbon belt drives with the Alfine componentry.  Specialized's Globe bikes like the Live head in the right direction with racks and there are also Civia and Swobo which make some good looking stuff.  Still, a long way to go before you see people riding heir friends around on a sturdy rear rack or on a bike with the complete feature set of a Gazelle.

To see more pics from Interbike 2009 - CLICK HERE

Stephan Schier
Dutch Bike Company Chicago