EUROPEAN BIKE WEEK® 2026 BRINGS THE SPIRIT OF THE RIDE TO LIFE

Epic roads, live entertainment and a shared passion for the ride defined six unforgettable days in Austria

FAAK AM SEE, AUSTRIA (18 September 2026) – European Bike Week® 2026 has officially concluded after six spectacular days dedicated to the freedom and adventure of the ride, bringing together thousands of riders and enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond in the stunning surroundings of Carinthia, Austria. From the legendary alpine roads surrounding Faak am See to the energy and excitement of Harley Village, Europe's largest Harley-Davidson gathering celebrated everything that draws riders to the open road: great motorcycles, unforgettable journeys and the connections made along the way.

At the heart of the event, the 40,000-square-metre Harley Village welcomed visitors from around the world, creating a vibrant hub of motorcycles, live music, custom culture and entertainment. Throughout the week, riders explored the latest Harley-Davidson models, shared experiences with fellow enthusiasts and immersed themselves in a celebration of riding unlike any other.

The Harley-Davidson Expo showcased highlights from the 2026 motorcycle range, including the Street Glide® Limited, Road Glide® Limited and Pan America® 1250 Limited, while the popular Demo Zone gave riders the opportunity to experience Harley-Davidson's 2026 motorcycles on some of Europe's most spectacular roads. Meanwhile, the Pan America Adventure Zone challenged riders to take their skills beyond the pavement through off-road experiences and training sessions led by renowned instructors Marco Belli, Alberto Cecotti and Dakar legend, Joan Pedrero.

Custom culture remained a cornerstone of the event. Visitors cast thousands of votes in the Creators Custom Clash competition, celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship of Harley-Davidson dealers and content creators from across Europe. The six unique builds demonstrated the endless possibilities for personalisation, highlighting how riders can make every Harley-Davidson truly their own.

The competition concluded on Thursday evening with Jack NBC’s Harley-Davidson Breakout®, in collaboration with Harley-Davidson Legnano, taking top honours in the 2026 Creators Custom Clash. Presented by Artie Starrs, President and Chief Executive Officer, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, and Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson Global Brand Ambassador, the award recognised the collaboration, innovation and craftsmanship behind this year's outstanding builds.

The spirit of individuality was on full display in nearby Villach, where the Metzeler-sponsored Custom Motorcycle Show turned the historic Hauptplatz into a celebration of Europe's finest custom motorcycles. Builders from across the continent competed across six categories, with awards recognising exceptional creativity, craftsmanship and innovation.

Presented by Bill Davidson and Alberto De Luca of Metzeler, the event's top honour, Best in Show, was awarded to Vito Klemencic of VK Custom Works Slovenia for his striking Sport & Clubstyle category winner. Powered by a 132CI Harley-Davidson engine and featuring a carbon fibre frame, wheels and fairing with gold accents throughout, the motorcycle exemplified the ingenuity and passion that continue to drive custom culture across Europe.

Other category winners included Austria's Hannes Happ (Antique & RestoMod), Germany's Kim Lara (Cruiser), Germany's Sven Nisch (Adventure & Off-Road), and Poland's Maly H-D (Radical Custom and Best Detailing). The Metzeler People's Choice Award went to Poland's Game Over Cycles for Slow Burn, a custom build inspired by the iconic 1936 Auburn boattail speedster.

Adding further excitement to the week was the appearance of Andrea Iannone. Fresh from his success in the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup, the Italian racing star attracted large crowds for autograph sessions, live appearances and riding activities, giving fans the opportunity to connect with one of motorcycle racing's most recognisable personalities.

Music and entertainment provided the backdrop throughout the week, with more than 30 bands performing across multiple stages. The winners of the Harley-Davidson Music Contest showcased emerging talent from across Europe, beginning with the UK's Wood Burnt Red, who opened the programme in the Saloon Bar on Wednesday. Germany's Mad Guz & the Mojos followed with a performance in the Harley Bar on Thursday, while France's Ocean Daze took to the Saloon Bar stage on Friday. Italy's Known Physics completed the line-up on Saturday in the Harley Bar, bringing the Music Contest programme to a memorable close. Together, the artists delivered a diverse soundtrack to Europe's largest Harley-Davidson gathering.

The week reached its traditional climax on Saturday as thousands of motorcycles took to the roads of Carinthia for the legendary Harley-Davidson Parade, sponsored by Dunlop. Winding through the region's spectacular scenery, the parade delivered a powerful celebration of the freedom, pride and passion that unite riders around the world.

Visitors also enjoyed rides through Austria and neighbouring Slovenia, explored the offerings of more than 100 vendors and exhibitors, and experienced everything from the latest motorcycles and accessories to food, entertainment, stunt shows and local hospitality. The festivities concluded on Saturday evening with the grand prize raffle, where one lucky attendee rode away on a brand-new Pan America® 1250 Limited motorcycle.

As part of Harley-Davidson’s 2026 European partnership, Jeep® joined the rally, bringing together two iconic brands united by a shared spirit of freedom and adventure, and offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience both communities side by side.

Commenting on the success of the event, Francesco Vanni, Managing Director and Head of Sales EMEA, Harley-Davidson, said:

"European Bike Week is ultimately about the ride. Every year, riders travel from across Europe and beyond to experience incredible roads, discover new places and share their passion for motorcycling with others who feel the same way. Seeing thousands of riders come together here in Faak am See has been truly inspiring, and we thank every rider, dealer, partner and visitor who helped make European Bike Week 2026 such a memorable success."

Following another successful year in Austria, Harley-Davidson looks forward to welcoming riders back to Faak am See from September 7 - 12 2027 for the next chapter of Europe's largest celebration of riding and motorcycle culture. For more information about Harley-Davidson events, visit www.harley-davidson.com.