We wish we had a travel budget that allowed us to cover shows around the world because if we did, we'd be hitting up the Custom Bike Show in Norrtlje, Sweden. The show has been organized by one of Sweden and Scandinavia's oldest bike clubs, known as the Twin Club, for almost 30 years so you know they've got all the details of running an event covered, no sweat. This past year's event held in early June attracted some 5000 bikers and 300 exhibitors, making it a well-known show throughout Europe. The Custom Bike Show has gained a reputation for contributing to the development of the "Swedish-style chopper," a chopper with a rebuilt frame, wide rear wheel, narrow front wheel, H-D engine, and a long front fork that is 6 to 20 inches longer than standard. This is obviously an international show that is going to appeal to many of you V-twin lovers out there.
The event attracts exhibitors that compete to win titles and prizes in seven classes: H-D Chopper, Chopper, Trike, Custom, Classics, Paintwork, and Choice of the Public. What's cool about this competition is the common requirement in all classes, which is any vehicle must be driven in normal traffic to and from the show to compete. Extreme bikes that are built only as works of art and cannot be driven, cannot participate. In other words, you ride into this show - no excuses.
With picturesque Norrtlje mountains as a backdrop, entertainment for the crowds, vendors selling goods that you might not be able to get in the States, on top of food and drink - really what more can you ask for? The 2006 Custom Bike Show is planned for June 2-4. As you make your motorcycle event plans for the coming summer, think about making them international and go to the Custom Bike Show in Norrtlje, Sweden.