USA – Prominent US bicycle brand, Specialized has sent a letter to it dealers in the US and the UK announcing that it will shift its 2018 model year product introduction to September, 2017.

Previously Specialized has held recent years' introductions in July. This move, along with other major brands similar timing schedules has led to reduced dealer attendance both at Interbike and Eurobike shows. Last year Eurobike announced that it would change show timing to early July, and Interbike are currently conducting a survey to look at doing the same.

In the Specialized letter titled 'Timing is everything', Jeff McGuane, Specialized's USA market leader wrote. "We have heard your feedback loud and clear and agree that the early season retailer event race does not align with your needs at retail. In order to meet rider expectations, deliver a timely product spectrum, as well as reduce your time away from your stores during the busy month of July, we have decided to make a change."