Harley-Davidson ANZ has officially opened entries for the 2026 Custom Kings competition, renewing its search for the region’s best custom Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Builders will showcase their creativity and craftsmanship by entering custom-built motorcycles from June 1.

Following the success of last year’s competition, Harley-Davidson owners from across Australia and New Zealand are being encouraged to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship by entering custom-built motorcycles from June 1. The annual competition celebrates Harley-Davidson’s long-standing custom culture and gives builders of all skill levels the opportunity to have their motorcycles judged against some of the best custom machines in the region.

Round One winner Sean Connolly bike.

For 2026, Custom Kings will feature multiple judging categories covering Cruiser, Touring and Vintage Harley-Davidson models, allowing a broader range of motorcycles to compete. The competition begins with public voting to determine category winners before the finalists face a judging panel made up of respected figures from the Australian motorcycle industry.

The expert panel includes Harley-Davidson ANZ Technical Lead Dan Lesnock, Heavy Duty Magazine owner and editor Mick Withers, Live To Ride Magazine editor Miles “Pugs” Rangeley and Harley-Davidson ANZ Marketing Lead Shane Brown.

The overall winner will receive a trip for two to the famous Mooneyes Yokohama Hot Rod Show in Japan, one of the world’s premier custom vehicle events. The competition has been dominated in recent years by Australian custom builder John Cage, who claimed back-to-back Custom Kings titles. His winning 2025 build, a highly modified Twin Cam-powered FXR, earned him a trip to Japan and recognition as one of the region’s leading Harley-Davidson customisers.

Round Three winner John Cage bike.

Reflecting on his success, Cage encouraged builders of all experience levels to enter. “Winning back-to-back competitions was an incredible honour. To have my work recognised by both the public and experts is the ultimate validation,” Cage said. “The sheer quality of entries, from everyday riders to professional workshops, shows just how deep the Harley-Davidson passion runs in the community.”

Round Four winner Dave White bike.

Harley-Davidson says the competition is designed to celebrate individuality and showcase the endless customisation possibilities available across the Harley-Davidson range. The dedicated Custom Kings website is the place where you can enter – so click here…

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