Biltwell started its annual "People's Champ" bike show nearly ten years ago in California. Staged on the Friday evening before the annual Born Free custom show (Silverado, California, June 22-23, 2024 - the 15th annual), it was conceived to shine a spotlight on builders who might not be well-known enough to be officially "Invited Builders" at Born Free.
That was what appealed to us here at AMD, and asking Biltwell if it would like to add its show to our own 'AMD Approved' program, 2024 was the first time it was one of our highlighted shows. Indeed, it was the first - and currently only - 'AMD Approved' custom bike show in North America.
The synergy between the AMD World Championship program and Biltwell's "People's Champ" award is irresistible. The 'AMD' was always conceived as a showcase for emerging talent, and after competing at the Biltwell "People's Champ", many have gone on to be invited builders at Born Free (and elsewhere). The way it works is simplicity itself. Having a shrewd eye and convincing motorcycle knowledge, to say nothing of a giant finger on the pulse of the custom bike market, the Biltwell crew picks the first big batch of bike builders, and then the worldwide public votes on the internet narrow it down to a final six and, eventually, to a Champ.
Biltwell hosts a massive party at the Cook's Corner biker bar in Orange County, California, on the Friday night before the Born Free show - and it is at this party that the winner's craftsmanship is celebrated. This year saw over 7,000 votes cast and the stiffest competition to date, with New Zealander Andy Martin finally being awarded the belt for this year's Biltwell "People's Champ."
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| New Zealander Andy Martin was named as this year's Biltwell "People's Champ." |
His 1948 Harley-Davidson Panhead chopper was a standout in every respect. "The more you look, the better the details: clean molding, subtle yet perfect paint, and unique features like pointy chain link exhaust mounts, motor mount and clutch release."
Biltwell's Bill Bryant told AMD: "Like all contenders for 'People's Champ,' Andy had to ride from Lake Elsinore, CA, over the infamous Ortega Highway to Cook's Corner. Proving it wasn't just an art project, he had zero issues and rode it like a proper motorcycle.
"This year's competitors built top-notch customs and were a pleasure to work with. But there can only be one Champ. When the votes were tallied, Andy Martin and his handcrafted baby-blue Harley claimed the title and the $10,000 check for 2024, proving that hard work indeed pays off. Congrats Andy!"
This year's "People's Champ" sponsors included Baker Drivetrain, Biltwell, Born Free, Choppers Magazine, Harley-Davidson, J&P Cycles, Lowbrow Customs, Paughco, S&S Cycle and Super 73.
