SEMA has launched a new Motorcycle category for its 2026 Battle of the Builders competition, featuring the inaugural Bike Builder Shootout where custom motorcycle builders compete based on craftsmanship, design innovation, and execution at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from November 3-6, 2026.
- New Category Launch: SEMA added a Motorcycle category and inaugural Bike Builder Shootout to the 2026 Battle of the Builders competition
- Judging Panel: Expert judges include Zach Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles, Jeff Holt of V-Twin Visionary, and Pat Patterson of Led Sled Customs
- Competition Structure: 10 motorcycle finalists will be selected, then compete for Top 3 winners and overall Bike Builder Shootout champion
- Event Details: Competition takes place during SEMA Show November 3-6, 2026 in Las Vegas with entries open at semabotb.com
- Existing Categories: Motorcycle category joins four automotive classes including Hot Rod, 4 Wheel Drive, Sport Compact, and Import Performance
SEMA has opened entries for its 2026 Battle of the Builders competition, adding a new Motorcycle category and the inaugural Bike Builder Shootout.
The new category will give custom motorcycle builders an opportunity to compete as part of the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers during the SEMA Show, set for Nov. 3–6 in Las Vegas.
Motorcycle entries will be evaluated by a panel of industry experts based on craftsmanship, design innovation and overall execution. The judging panel includes Zach Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles, Jeff Holt of V-Twin Visionary and Pat Patterson of Led Sled Customs.
Judges will select 10 finalists from the motorcycle entries. Those finalists will then determine the category’s Top 3 winners and select the overall Bike Builder Shootout champion.
“Motorcycles have always been a vital part of the customization community, and we're excited to officially bring these builders into the SEMA Battle of the Builders spotlight,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera.
The Motorcycle category joins four existing automotive classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck, 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road, Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic, and BFGoodrich Young Guns. Automotive finalists will continue to compete separately for the overall automotive Battle of the Builders title.
The addition comes as SEMA continues to expand its powersports presence at the annual trade show. The Battle of the Builders and Bike Builder Shootout will be showcased in Center Hall during the 2026 SEMA Show.
Entries are now open at semabotb.com. Attendee registration for the SEMA Show is also open at semashow.com/register.
The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3–6 in Las Vegas, with SEMA Fest scheduled for Nov. 6.
