The SEMA Show has always been natural territory for prepared cars. Hot rods, modified pick-ups, imported sports cars and projects with huge budgets have occupied, for years, the center of a fair that has become a reference for those passionate about preparations. A place where there was also a place for motorcycles although they could not compete in the famous Battle of the Builders.
That will change in the 2026 edition, since SEMA has confirmed that its well-known preparation contest will open for the first time a category dedicated exclusively to motorcycles. The new competition will have its own name, it will be called Bike Builder Shootout, and it will be there where an absolute winner will be chosen during the show that will be held in Las Vegas from November 3 to 6.
The Battle of the Builders turns 13 and has established itself as one of the most relevant showcases for workshops, preparers and independent builders. Winning or reaching the final phases can give visibility, open doors and place a project in front of brands, distributors and clients around the world. A space that until now was only reserved for four wheels.
Motorcycles will have their own space at SEMA
As we said, SEMA has chosen to create an independent category, with a jury made up of experts from the motorcycle sector. The preparations will be evaluated for their quality of construction, design, innovation and general execution, without directly comparing them with automobile projects that respond to very different codes.
The system will also have a second particular part. The ten finalists in the category will also participate in the final election. Between them they will select the three best bikes and decide which one takes the first title of the Bike Builder Shootout. It is a formula that gives weight to the criteria of those who know closely the work behind a preparation of this type.
Of course, the main structure of the Battle of the Builders does not change. The contest will continue to maintain its categories for hot rods, off-road vehicles, imported vehicles and BFGoodrich Young Guns, reserved for preparers under 30 years of age. The difference is that, starting in 2026, the motorcycles will cease to be a parallel and decorative presence and will become part of the competition with a recognized category.
The Bike Builder Shootout will be held live during the opening day of the SEMA Show, thus opening the competitions within what is perhaps the most important customization event on the planet.
