Builders Best Presented by BMW MOA

Builders Best FAQ

Questions about entering a motorcycle, travel, show rules or what happens once you arrive? Find the answers quickly below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What you need to know

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Entry & Eligibility

8 Questions
Does it cost anything to enter Builders Best?

No. Registration for Builders Best is free.

What types of motorcycles are you looking for?

Builders Best is looking for custom and vintage motorcycles. Custom entries should feature substantial changes that meaningfully transform the motorcycle; simple bolt-on changes such as handlebars and exhaust alone would not generally be considered a significant custom build. Vintage motorcycles are defined for the show as pre-1980 and may be custom, restored or original. For examples of motorcycles that have appeared at previous shows, visit the Builders Best gallery.

View Builders Best Gallery →
Are motorcycles from brands other than BMW eligible?

Yes. Builders Best welcomes custom and vintage motorcycles from every manufacturer. BMW motorcycles are an important part of the show, but the Open class gives builders of other marques a place in the exhibition as well.

Can I submit more than one motorcycle?

Yes. Builders are welcome to submit multiple motorcycles. Each motorcycle is reviewed individually and is subject to approval for the show.

What if I am not sure whether my motorcycle qualifies?

Apply. We would rather see the motorcycle and evaluate it than have you decide not to enter. Submit the bike for consideration and the Builders Best team will be happy to review it.

Submit Your Motorcycle →
Do I need to be a professional motorcycle builder?

Absolutely not. Professional shops, independent builders and home-garage builders are all welcome. Builders Best is about the motorcycle, the craftsmanship and the story behind it — not the size of your shop.

Does the motorcycle need to run?

Yes. Builders Best is intended for complete, running motorcycles. Unfinished projects, non-running concepts and incomplete builds are not eligible for display.

How do I sign up?

Complete the Builders Best registration form online. Registration is free, and each submitted motorcycle will be reviewed for participation.

Register for Builders Best →

Travel & Rally Access

4 Questions
Is lodging included for builders?

Free tent camping is included. If you prefer a hotel or another lodging option, those arrangements and costs are the responsibility of the builder.

Are travel expenses covered?

No. Transportation, fuel, meals during travel and other travel-related expenses are the responsibility of each builder.

How many people can I bring with me?

Each accepted builder receives two complimentary admission passes to the BMW MOA Rally. If you would like to bring additional guests, extra Rally passes may be purchased separately.

Purchase Additional Rally Tickets →
Do I have to stay with my motorcycle for the entire show?

No. Once your motorcycle has been delivered and installed in the exhibition, you are free to enjoy the rest of the BMW MOA Rally. Demo rides, entertainment, food, vendors, seminars and other Rally activities take place throughout the event.

Explore the BMW MOA Rally →

Show Operations & Security

5 Questions
Is Builders Best an indoor or outdoor show?

Builders Best is held indoors, giving the motorcycles a dedicated exhibition environment protected from the weather.

Can I take my motorcycle out of the show each night?

No. For security and to keep the exhibition intact, motorcycles should remain on their assigned display platform once they have been installed. They stay in the hall until scheduled load-out.

Is my motorcycle secure overnight?

Yes. At the end of each show day, the exhibition hall is cleared and locked for the evening.

Does the fuel tank need to be completely empty?

No. The motorcycle does not need to arrive with an empty tank, but we recommend bringing it with less than half a tank of fuel.

What should I do if I am accepted but can no longer attend?

We understand that plans change. If you have registered but can no longer participate, please let us know as soon as possible so we have an opportunity to offer the space to another builder. Contact Sue Aldridge at sue@bmwmoa.org.

Business & Sponsorship

2 Questions
Can I sell products or promote my business from my Builders Best display?

Builders Best is an exhibition rather than a vendor area, so vendor sales are not currently part of the show. Businesses interested in selling products or operating a commercial booth can apply for space in the BMW MOA Rally vendor area.

BMW MOA Rally Vendor Information →
How can I sponsor Builders Best?

For Builders Best sponsorship opportunities, contact Sue Aldridge at sue@bmwmoa.org.

Still Have a Question?

Talk to the Builders Best team.

If your question is specific to your motorcycle, application or participation in the show, reach out and we will help you figure it out.

Builders Best Contact Sue Aldridge sue@bmwmoa.org
Part of the BMW MOA Rally

There is much more happening beyond the bike show.

Builders Best is held in conjunction with the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America National Rally. Visit the Rally website for registration, camping, entertainment, vendors and the complete Rally experience.

Visit Rally.BMWMOA.org →