Chopperfest

The custom motorcycle scene has its builders, chromers, painters, the people who chop, the people who ride, weekend warriors, and the mile munchers. One big group of two-wheel enthusiasts who have been drawing influence and inspiration from the golden era of motorcycling for decades. But before we had the websites, the blogs, Instagram, and smart phones, motorcycle culture lived inside the magazines. In the early days, the king was Easyriders Magazine, which commonly featured art from the biker world’s artist-in-residence, David Mann.

David Mann was a graphic artist whose work celebrated all things biker life. His paintings not only depicted the freedom of riding across the American land mass, but also the day-to-day life—building bikes, the parties, the garages, and the memorabilia that often adorned the custom motorcycle scene. Unfortunately, Mann passed in September of 2004; however, his work is so legendary and well revered that he continues to live on and be celebrated at shows like David Mann Chopperfest.

2023 marked the 17th annual David Mann Chopperfest held in Ventura, California, and the first year back since the pandemic. The motorcycle community stormed Ventura, bringing out all different styles and eras of motorcycles: original restored knucks and pans along with a healthy amount of Harley custom chops. Classic Milwaukee iron flooded the fairgrounds with all the favorite custom shops setting up vending booths, as well as music and swap meet specials.

Of course, only one bike could be picked for the Best in Show award, and the organizers had their work cut out for them. The award went to Nor Cal’s chopper wizard Ryan Grossman with his build, “Snake Eyes,” a 1936 EL 61’’ OHV knucklehead that included custom one-off pegs, kickstand and hand shift carved to resemble snakes, and an oil tank that best resembles a disco ball. Many of the bikes seen at Chopperfest have won awards across the world, but since many of the builders call California home, we’re lucky enough to see them in person lined up handlebar to handlebar.

It’s no lie that the motorcycle scene in California is strong, and David Mann Chopperfest proved just that. To stay updated on next year’s event, visit chopperfestival.com. Until next time, ride safe, wrench safe, and we’ll see you down the road.

Watch our video coverage of Chopperfest here.