Bangkok Hotrod Custom Show 2026

You hear whispers of the wild custom scene in Asia, people who go and visit rave about the unique style and creativity on display in these communities around the world.

Until recently I was one of the people running off second hand information and snippets I had seen on the internet. So I decided to go and check it out for myself. The destination Bangkok Hotrod Custom Show 2026.

This show hosts every facet of custom culture to be put in one place and celebrated in the beating heart of Thailand. Custom Motorcycles and Cars are prominent, but supporting this are showcases of Pin striping, music, fashion, machinery, custom tuk-tuks and everything in between. As we weaved through the show hall the first thing that struck me was the variation in these bikes on display. After a while you cannot be surprised by what engine a builder has made into what style of bike. A 60’s Kawasaki into a drag bike, or a 70cc Japanese 2 stroke built into a perfectly proportioned (just scaled down) 60’s chopper.

The Thai builders displayed some impressive builds across all styles, and most were more than happy to have a conversation either in broken English, or via google translate about their work. Of the 200+ customs on show, Choppers dominated the display hall. The difference here being no one was worried about what engine or frame it was, they just wanted to get busy making something that showcased their skill.

Wandering through the halls, getting lost amongst the mix of custom, vintage and racing machines before hitting the international vendors area. Among the Guest judges this year was preadcheese Fabrications (AUS), Beware Choppers (USA), FKC Mooneyes (Spain), Wedge Motorcycle, Satomari motorcycle, Custom Works Zon , 2 Persenter and Luck Motorcycle (All heavy hitters from Japan). A chance to meet, converse and grab some merch from some ultra highly regarded builders. Never as attainable as they are at Bangkok Hotrod Custom Show.

The Bangkok hotrod custom show has been gaining international attention over the last few years and this year hosted a huge number of international guests and judges. Coming from neighbouring countries in asia, along with guests from U.S.A, Russia, Canada and Australia. Anyone I talked with was simply blown away with the community here, and then you walk outside into the carpark.

All manner of vintage and custom builds ridden in from far corners of the country for the weekend. Hanging out, having a beer, and listening to tunes blasted out of the support car they rode in with. Each night we would grab a few drinks from the hotel and wander through meeting different clubs, builders and crews getting to know them a bit and seeing their bikes. Honestly one of the more enjoyable parts of the experience. Being so far rom home and bonded by motorcycles to guys who you can barely speak to.

Back inside for day 2, and there was more to explore, new customs and vendors missed on day one. A pool table at the Royal Enfield booth, live ride simulator at the Harley-Davidson booth, and onto the more boutique wares up the back. With a backdrop of Thai street food being served up all day, you can find rare vintage parts, antique motorcycle goodies and a number of fashion and
merchandise stalls. Sunglasses from Japan, Selvedge denim locally made in Thailand, Vintage riding jackets and locally made helmets too. Each vendor takes the time to talk you through their product, what makes it special and you can really feel their passion. Every one under one roof for the same passion. Custom culture.

Once finished their I went over to catch a live pinstriping class finishing up with some of the best in the business, Mr. Oz + freeflow Kustom a couple of the biggest name in modern pinstriping putting on a display for punters and teaching those who wanted to learn. I spent a bit of time getting to know Cory Mroz (Mr. Oz) and as uneducated as I am on his pinstriping craft it was great to see his passion shine through on a skill he had honed and had it take him all over the world.

My major takeaway from these events is always the same. The custom machines are what draw you in, but the people behind them, the drivers behind their creations and the unwavering love of this thing that brings us all together is what keeps you from lasting through the show in a few short hours. Take a trip, make friends with someone you can barely talk to and get immersed in a culture that’s not your own. Its surprising just how at home you might feel.