By SEMA News Editors
The industry's most prestigious builder competition is officially open for 2026, and builders across the automotive and motorcycle worlds are invited to enter now at semabotb.com.
Now in its 13th year, the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers has become the ultimate proving ground for custom vehicle builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show. For 2026, the competition is expanding beyond four wheels with the debut of the SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout, creating a new opportunity for custom motorcycle builders to earn industry recognition on one of the biggest stages in automotive culture. Entries will be evaluated separately by motorcycle industry judges based on craftsmanship, design innovation and overall execution, with entries advancing through the competition until one builder is ultimately named the overall Bike Builder champion.
The Bike Builder Shootout joins the program's four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns. As in years past, winners from these four classes will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall Battle of the Builders champion.
Supporting the Next Generation of Builders with the BFGoodrich Young Guns
Builders age 29 and younger can enter the BFGoodrich Young Guns category, which continues to provide emerging talent with increased visibility and opportunities to compete alongside some of the industry's most respected names.
"BFGoodrich is proud to support the next generation of builders through the BFGoodrich Young Guns category at the SEMA Battle of the Builders," said BFGoodrich Ultra High Performance Brand Manager TJ Dennis. "Creating opportunities for young builders to showcase their talent, gain industry recognition and compete alongside some of the best in the business is what makes this program so special. We’re excited to continue supporting the innovation, passion and creativity that define the future of vehicle customization."
Eligible Young Guns entrants may also be selected to participate in virtual Golden Ticket competitions throughout the summer. Winners receive prize packages that can include vehicle transportation to Las Vegas, hotel accommodations and travel assistance (keep an eye on SEMA News for additional details in the coming weeks).
If your vehicle will be displayed at the 2026 SEMA Show, now is the time to throw your hat in the ring at semabotb.com.
Enter the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers today.
The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com.
SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.


