The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows (IMS), Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show hosted by J&P Cycles rolls into its first U.S. stop in Long Beach California November 17-18. 2018 will be another big year for new models from the leading manufacturers. Besides showcasing lots of impressive new iron, the IMS shows this year will also feature:
- Parts and accessory vendors with “touch, test and buy” options
- Stunt riding demonstrations
- Adventure Riding seminars
- Kid Zones
- Motorcycle sweepstake giveaways
- Vintage displays
- Demo rides (at the Long Beach show only)
- Custom bike building competition
- How-to seminars
Trends
Huge numbers of Generations X-Y & Z still feeling the financial effect of the great recession but ready to begin the lifetime love of motorcycling are into customization. Despite the sophistication and awesome features of modern motorcycles, customizing new bikes is a still major trend in the industry. And modifying pre millennium “retro bikes” from the huge trove of units sold during the industry’s pre recession glory years is an economical and fun way to a unique first ride.
J&P Cycles and Cycle Source Magazine have astutely focused their support of the IMS shows on exotic custom builds and helping cash strapped customers gain needed maintenance skills & knowledge.
The J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show
Billed as the world’s largest bike builder competition The U.B.C.B.S. attracts both famous and unknown builders competing in four classes:
- Custom Street
- Freestyle
- Modified Harley
- Modified Retro
The last several year’s entries have been pretty amazing. Three hundred fifty builders are expected to vie for $100,000 cash and prizes this year. Competition will take place at each stop on the tour. Winners from each city go on to compete in the Championship, February 9-11 in Chicago, IL.
“Do-it-yourself” demos from Grease & Gears Garage
Cycle Source Magazine’s Grease & Gears garage will feature live demos by builders and craftsmen instructing show goers on repair and maintenance techniques. Work on a custom Harley FXR nicknamed “War Pony” will stream live from each city on the official IMS Facebook page.
Following the Long Beach show the tour heads East:
- New York Dec 1-3
- Minneapolis Dec 8-10
- Cleveland Jan 26-28
- Dallas Feb 2-4
- Chicago Feb 9-11
- Washington D.C. Feb 23-25
Additional Info
To learn more about the 2017-2018 Progressive® IMS tour, see full schedules and purchase tickets, visit motorcycleshows.com. Use promo code EXH18 to get $3 off your admission. Enough for a (non-fancy) coffee after the show while you digest all the new toys you saw.
Check back as Bikeland posts more from the Long Beach show.