When it started 10 years ago, there was no shortage of shows for chopper and cruiser enthusiasts. You could ride up to any bike night and see a handful of ape-hung Softails and half-cocked Sportster choppers, but spotting race-inspired Harleys and a real diversity of customs in that scene seemed almost unattainable at the time. Thor Drake set out to change that, one year at a time. Describing The One Motorcycle Show as his “little art project,” Thor wanted to see the sort of bikes that he was really into, the sort of bikes he and his friends wanted to ride, no matter the brand.
For the first few years, there really weren’t many V-twin customs because, whether or not they intended it, they were differentiating themselves from other shows in the US. Now in their 10th year, nobody is arguing exactly how different and diverse this show is, and the chopper/cruiser room upstairs has become one of the most interesting rooms in the show. Now you casually see a 1926 H-D next to Honda two-strokes and other bizarre combinations that look totally at home here. Thor’s “little art project” has turned into one of the best moto shows in the US with hundreds of bikes, thousands of attendees, and awesome bands and races. If you haven’t checked it out, or even if you have, carve out some time in 2020 to head to Portland, Oregon—next year’s showing is already looking to be even better.
Check out our general gallery below.
Head over to the1moto.com for more details on next year’s event!