The world's largest motorcycle and bicycle show will be coming to Singapore next year and is expected to generate around US$150 million in business opportunities.

BikeAsia 2008 will be a trade platform for bicycles, motorbikes, components and accessories, as well as an exhibition to promote two-wheeled sports. It will occupy 20,000 square metres at the Singapore Expo from next April 10-13 and has the support of EICMA, which organises the Milan International Exhibition of Bicycles and Motorcycles, the world's largest show of its kind.

Although this inaugural show will represent both bicycles and motorcycles, the main focus will be on the latter since the motorbike market is larger in terms of revenue generated.

EICMA director Constantino Ruggiero said BikeAsia would leverage on Singapore's geographical location to create a one-stop venue for businesses throughout the region to network and transact.

Distributors and manufacturers from countries, including China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, America and Europe are expected to participate.

'As organisers of the trade show richest in history and prestige, we were surprised to find that in this region ... there was no show fully devoted to two-wheel vehicles, components, clothing and accessories,' Mr Ruggiero said.

He estimated that a combined total of 300 brands will be involved in BikeAsia, ranging from Shimano for bicycles, to Ducati for motorcycles, although the list of participants is not complete yet.

Roberto Fabbri, managing director of BikeAsia Pte Ltd, expects the show to generate around US$150 million because of 'the huge components manufacturing element present in Asia'.

Motorcycle sales in Asia accounted for 85 per cent of global figures and Asia manufactures 90 per cent of the world's motorcycle output. Asian sales are also growing at a stronger rate than in Europe and the US.

Those visiting the show next year will be treated to two-wheeled stunt shows outside the Singapore Expo.

And, in a nod to the growing importance of women in driving the biking industry, women will be granted free admission on the second-last day of BikeAsia 2008. Mr Fabbri said women are 'strongly influencing the designers of bicycles, motorcycles and related accessories'.