Some, such as those at Subaru's display, are shown just as accessories on vehicles. Subaru has bikes with its Outback wagon, which is aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. Others, such as the electric-powered bicycle displayed by minicar maker Smart display, are for sale.

Bikes weren't the focus of presentations during this week's media previews at the North American International Auto Show, but they're often used in marketing cars.

"Consumers that may be not that active or may not even have bicycles themselves are going to associate that with an active lifestyle, an outdoor lifestyle, a healthy lifestyle," said Jeremy Anwyl, vice chairman of the Edmunds.com auto website.

Other prominent bike displays in Detroit this year include the Prius X Parlee concept bicycle among Toyota's vehicles. And at Hyundai's spot on the show floor during media preview days, a bike was perched out the rear and rooftop of a Veloster coupe.

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