AIMEXPO PRESENTED BY NATIONWIDE ANNOUNCES THE SHOP BUILDERS INVITATIONAL CUSTOM BIKE CONTEST

In partnership with S&S Cycle, AIMExpo presented by Nationwide is excited to announce the 2019 Shop Builders Invitational – a custom bike contest open to all bike builders, from the weekend warrior to the seasoned pro. It takes place in The Shop Neighborhood Hangout September 26-29, 2019 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH. Builders of all levels and styles are welcome to apply for the contest, highlighting the world of custom motorcycles at North America’s most important industry gathering.

“Custom builders are a big part of the current motorcycle market and truly represent a community built on passion. As we work to bring the industry together, it’s important that we recognize the custom community and the artistry and craftsmanship they contribute to the Powersports Industry. We’re proud to be able to work with some of the best builders in the country and provide a platform that allows them to showcase their work and connect them to the industry,” said Andre Albert, Marketing Director, MIC Events.

Bike Presentation at AIMExpo
With a brand new S&S T111 Black Edition Long Block motorcycle engine provided by S&S Cycle as the grand prize, builders must submit their entries and go through an online judging process by a panel of experts. The top bikes and their owners will be invited to showcase their builds in The Shop at AIMExpo presented by Nationwide. A winner will be chosen at the show by industry icons including Rod Woodruff, CEO, Sturgis Buffalo Chip, Iron Trader News Editor Marilyn Stemp, Dave Zemla of S&S Cycle and Kevin Dunworth of Dunworth Customs. Judging will encompass everything from the overall design, aesthetics and style to the builder’s skill and ingenuity in terms of fabrication and welding, rideability, customization and engine modifications.

“We are very excited to bring a high-level showcase of custom motorcycles together during the premium industry trade show,” said Kevin Dunworth. “To be able to exhibit current custom trends to industry decision-makers and attendees is a honor in and of itself, and giving away a new S&S engine to one of the builders is the icing on the cake.”

With the North American Powersports Industry gathering in Columbus for AIMExpo presented by Nationwide, The Shop Builders Invitational offers an unrivaled opportunity for bike builders to get their work in front of some of the most important and influential people in the industry. It’s their opportunity to represent American custom motorcycle culture.


The Shop, a new Neighborhood Hangout and feature on the show floor at AIMExpo presented by Nationwide, celebrates the lifestyle of the V-Twin/Cruiser/Custom community and the passion that fuels this culture. In addition to The Shop Builders Invitational, The Shop will also feature Shop Talks – an area for engaging discussions, new product showcases, great music and specialty concessions including local craft beers and artisan coffee.

“AIMExpo presented by Nationwide is an all-encompassing powersports show that wouldn’t be complete without representing the Custom culture. Kevin Dunworth, as The Shop Ambassador, and partnerships with iconic brands such as S&S Cycle and many others are key to showcasing this deeply rooted lifestyle,” said Cinnamon Kernes,Vice President & General Manager, MIC Events.

For full details about The Shop Builders Invitational Custom Bike Contest, including the rules and a link to the official entry form, please visit aimexpousa.com/the_shop_builders_invitational