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.
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.
Incredible displays of local customs, back yard builders bike’s all made with minimal tools and propped up by the community around them. We had a wild time at the Bi-annual Bangkok Hotrod custom showand its definitely on the agenda to visit in 2028. If you have the means I suggest you do the same, grab your mates and get out there!
[ Photos by Bangkok Hotrod Custom Show ]