BILDT NOT BOUGHT 2025 – PURE SCENE VIBES IN ST. ANNAPAROCHIE
Some events are must-visits. Not because of flashy sponsors or big names on the flyer – but because they’re built by the scene, for the scene. Bildt Not Bought Chopper Fest in St. Annaparochie is one of those events. And you feel it the second you roll in.
Atmosphere: Real. Raw. Respectful.
The vibe? Absolutely on point. From the first moment, it was clear: everyone’s welcome, no matter what you ride. No ego trips, no peacocking – just mutual respect and real conversations. People helped each other out, shared beers, shared stories. And with the weather hitting nearly 30°C on Friday – it was the perfect setup for a killer weekend. Massive shoutout to the organizers for offering free water in the heat. No rip-offs, no nonsense. That’s how you do it.
Customs, Classics & Long-Distance Legends
Obviously, the bikes were the main event – and man, they delivered: Pans, Knuckles, Flatheads, Jap bikes, and tons of wild custom builds. What really blew us away? The folks who rode in from Sweden, Italy, and across Europe – many of them rigid frames, barely tour-friendly. But that’s the spirit: passion doesn’t care about distance.
Best Bike Show & Ride-Out
One big highlight: the Best Bike Show. Selected bikes got a number on their headlight right at the gate and rolled onto the infield. Everyone could vote for their favorite. A concept that makes every wrenchhead’s heart beat faster.
On Saturday, it was time to ride. After breakfast, the groups hit the road — each crew on their own, cruising scenic routes, stopping by the coast for a laid-back meal. And on the way back? Grabbed a few crates of beer… let’s just say they didn’t survive the night.
Two Fields – All You Need
The venue was smartly split: One field for camping, one for the action. On the main area: the infield, surrounded by parts booths, custom jewelry, a tattoo artist, a mobile welding station for emergencies, apparel, and gear for your next build. Plus the big tent with the stage and bar. They used custom tokens you could trade for cash – no confusion, no stress, well organized from top to bottom.
Hungry? You were in good hands. The food truck served up exactly what you need for a weekend like this: Grilled chicken, sausages, wings, ribs, pulled pork and chicken burgers, all kinds of fries — and of course: Frikandellen. Tasty stuff, big portions, and the line in front said it all.
No Half-Measures on the Music
Several bands brought the heat throughout the weekend. Daytime, nighttime – didn’t matter. They rocked the stage and gave the perfect soundtrack for those long nights under the open sky. Raw sound. Real vibes. Scene energy.
Faces of the Scene
Like with many of these events – it’s the people that make it. You keep bumping into familiar faces, legendary bikes, and riders from Germany, Holland, Belgium… And with every year, the circle gets bigger. New friendships, old ones rekindled – and always that magic mix of wrenching, riding, talking, partying.
Bottom Line? No Debate Needed.
This was our second year at Bildt Not Bought – and after round one, we already knew: We’re buying next year’s tickets, no questions asked. The event has grown, the organizers took feedback and leveled things up. Respect.
If you’re not into stock bikes… If you live for real builds – whether it’s a Jap, Evo, or vintage Pan – put this event on your list. Not just for the bikes. But for the chance to connect with passionate riders from across Europe.
Ticket Tip – Don’t Stress the Drop
Yes – tickets sold out in 8 minutes this year. But don’t worry if you missed the official drop: Just before the Chopperfest weekend, tickets often pop up from folks who can’t make it last minute. The organizers usually post them in their Insta stories – so keep your eyes open, follow their feed, and with a bit of luck – you’re in.
