Under brilliant South Coast skies, Batemans Bay’s Hanging Rock Sports Precinct buzzed with thousands of visitors over three days of the second annual Sea Otter Australia festival.
Riders came to check out the latest gear, watch the racing, test mountain bikes, and explore everything from rooftop tents to bike carriers. The combination of racing, product displays and outdoor adventure gave the festival an appeal well beyond the traditional bike-show crowd.
With 251 global brands represented, Sea Otter Australia has grown considerably since its 2025 debut. Backed by Australian distributors and international brands alike, the expo drew crowds and featured bikes, components, accessories, and outdoor gear. Exhibitors included New Zealand’s Gloworm Lights, Chinese brand Rockbros, and numerous Taiwanese manufacturers.
Highlights abounded, and with Sea Otter developing a reputation as somewhat of a bike industry trade show, plenty of new products and recent releases caught our eye. Here are 10 things that stood out at the second edition of Sea Otter Australia.
1. BBB Cycling’s CoreCap
Sometimes the best innovations are the simplest. BBB Cycling’s CoreCap rethinks the traditional Presta valve to improve airflow and make inflation easier, and it has won a coveted iF Design Award.
2. JetBlack’s Victory indoor training setup
JetBlack Cycling continues to make its mark internationally with the Victory smart trainer. Pair it with Zwift, Rouvy, or another compatible training platform for an engaging indoor riding experience. It’s a timely reminder that Australian-designed cycling products can still compete on the world stage.
3. SILCA finally enters the tyre market
SILCA founder Josh Poertner has built a reputation around engineering, efficiency and reducing rolling resistance. The company has now added tyres to their long list of impressive products, an obvious but also very interesting development. Brisbane-based distributor Echelon Sports had the range on display, spanning road and gravel options.
4. ORTLIEB’s colourful Cyber Line bags
ORTLIEB is already a trusted name in waterproof bikepacking and touring luggage, but its Cyber Line takes things up a notch visually. The electric blue and pink finishes are impossible to miss, while the familiar emphasis on waterproof construction and practical design remains. For riders who want dependable luggage without the usual subdued colours, these bike bags are a standout.
5. Schwalbe’s pocket-sized electric pump
Compact electric pumps are becoming increasingly mainstream, and Schwalbe’s E-Micro Pump makes a compelling case. Weighing just 130g, it delivers up to 120psi and supports road, gravel, mountain and everyday commuter bikes. It also works with Schwalbe’s Clik Valve, with an adapter included.
6. Ergon’s GP3 Evo grips
Ergon has long focused on the three key contact points between rider and bike, and its GP3 Evo touring grips caught our attention. Designed to evenly distribute pressure across the hands and offer alternative positions, they aim to reduce numbness and discomfort on longer rides. For touring cyclists, rail-trail riders, and anyone dealing with sore hands or wrists, these could make a life-changing difference on the bike.
7. Foldylock’s Pride edition lock
Bike security doesn’t have to be black and boring. Foldylock’s Pride edition brings colour to its 85cm folding lock, combining a distinctive finish with a practical, portable security option. It’s made of hardened steel, is drill-proof, and has an anti-rust surface coating.
8. Yakima’s StepUp Swing
Expected to arrive in December, Yakima’s upcoming StepUp Swing is big boost to the rear-mounted bike-carrier market. Its integrated swing-away mechanism lets you access the back of the vehicle, with or without bikes loaded. It can carry two mountain bikes of up to 29.5 kg each.
9. The vans in the carpark
Outside the Sea Otter Australia festival, numerous dream camper vans were on show in the carpark. Bike shows like this attract thousands of enthusiasts from around Australia, and many enjoy van life as much as bike life.
10. Vittoria Tirreno Pro
Vittoria’s natural-brown Tirreno Pro tyre uses 92% renewable and recycled materials, and its new construction is designed to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining grip and comfort. It’s won a major award at the Taipei Cycle show, and takes tan wall to the next level.
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