A curated, world‑class gathering of premier framebuilders returns to Austin in 2027
Argyle, Texas — Don Walker has announced the return of the North American Handmade Bicycle Show, reimagined as the NAHBS Reunion & Invitational, taking place August 6–8, 2027 at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas.
Since its debut in Houston in January 2005, NAHBS has stood as the premier showcase for handmade bicycles, innovative design, and world‑class craftsmanship. After the disruption of the COVID‑19 pandemic and a subsequent hiatus, Walker is bringing the event back with a renewed focus and a clearly defined vision.
"The Reunion & Invitational format is designed to bring together a carefully selected group of the world's premier builders, innovators, and brands," said Walker. "The goal is not to create the largest bicycle show. The goal is to create the finest gathering of handmade bicycle craftsmanship in the world."
Now based in Texas, Walker believes the time is right to return the event to Austin — one of the most successful and memorable locations in NAHBS history.
To support the show's renewed direction, NAHBS has appointed Lelani as Media Liaison, overseeing communications, press outreach, and media coordination throughout the lead‑up to the 2027 event. Her role will help ensure clear, consistent communication with builders, exhibitors, and the cycling media worldwide.
Unlike previous iterations of the show, the NAHBS Reunion & Invitational will feature a curated exhibitor list. Builders and brands that helped define the formative years of NAHBS, past award winners, and a select group of internationally recognized craftspeople and innovators will be invited to participate.
"An invitation to exhibit at NAHBS should mean something," Walker explained. "It should represent a builder's contribution to the craft, the quality of their work, and the respect they have earned from their peers."
The event will showcase custom frames, component manufacturers, paint artisans, wheel builders, and innovators from around the world — while fostering the sense of community and camaraderie that helped establish NAHBS as one of cycling's most influential gatherings.
The Reunion & Invitational places particular emphasis on the builders themselves. While the event will continue to welcome select component manufacturers and boutique suppliers whose work supports and advances the craft, the bicycles and the people who create them will remain at the center of the experience.
"Our focus is on the builders and the bicycles," said Walker. "We want exhibitors to bring their absolute best work and create an event that celebrates the highest levels of craftsmanship, creativity, and artistry in handmade bicycles."
The first round of exhibitor invitations has already generated enthusiastic support from builders and brands across North America, Europe, and Asia — including commitments from exhibitors in Italy, Ireland, and Japan.
"NAHBS was never intended to be a show measured by the number of booths it could sell," Walker said. "It was created to celebrate excellence in the craft of bicycle building. Our goal is to present an event where the finest work in the world can be seen, recognized, and appreciated by builders, enthusiasts, and the cycling industry alike."
Additional exhibitor announcements, event details, and registration information will be released in the coming months.
Event Information
NAHBS Reunion & Invitational August 6–8, 2027 Palmer Events Center Austin, Texas
