Motor Bike Expo 2026: King of Custom

The Motor Bike Expo (MBE), held annually in Verona, Italy, is the world’s largest motorcycle exhibition and trade show. At the 2026 edition last month, a total of 180,000 visitors passed through the 120,000 square-meter venue, which housed eight halls, 35 manufacturers, 700 exhibitors from 35 countries, and more than 3000 bikes…motorcycle mecca!

Attendance was up 7% over last year, which shows a strong and continued interest in two wheels. There were over 1000 demo rides, as well as super enduro, supermoto, and indoor trials competitions and displays.

Special guests included Alvaro Bautista, Max Biaggi, Billy Bolt, Tony Cairoli, Alessandro Delbianco, Andrea Dovizioso, Tim Gajser, Joan Pedrero, Michele Pirro, Lorenzo Savadori, Andrea Verona, Lucio Cecchinello, and more.

Of course, the custom bikes are our favorite part of the show, and the annual “King of Customs” competition brings builders from around the world for a chance to be crowned king.

“Organized directly by the Motor Bike Expo team, the MBE Award is the most prestigious recognition for those who shape and elevate the culture of motorcycle customization. Each year, an international jury composed of four legends of the custom world – representing the USA, Asia and Europe – selects the Top 10 motorcycles exhibited at the show.

“Only one builder earns the title of ‘King of Custom’, achieving the highest score and establishing themselves as the best among the best in the world capital of motorcycle customization.”

Last year, Gallery Motorcycles took the prize with their flathead Harley-Davidson build.

Gallery Motorcycles – 2025 King of Custom

“The insane attention to detail and incredibly imaginative execution of so many cool ideas made this bike stand out from all of the incredible builds at this year’s MBE Verona! If you wanna get inspired, zoom in on these pictures and study the many super cool ideas and their meticulous execution. This bike could easily find a home in a museum of modern art. Job well done gentleman!” -Judge Paul Yaffe

This year’s four judges included Christian Sosa (@sosametalworks), Mike Rabideau (@majikmikesdesigns), Winston Yeh (@winston_yeh), and Satya Kraus (@satyakraus | @krausmoto). Together, they crowned El Lobo Cycles as King of Custom with the workshop’s “Royal Blood” Knucklehead.