30 years in the business of Paola Somma and Francesco Agnoletto, creators of Motor Bike Expo

Time flies by and scenarios are constantly changing, but there are constants that endure and evolve by “surfing” through the news and changes that follow. One of these is a fixed appointment, unmissable for true motorcycle enthusiasts, exceptionally held in winter, during the first days of the year… an event that has experienced exponential growth, becoming a global reference point. It is called Motor Bike Expo and is the result of the experience of Paola and Francesco, who with foresight and ambition have created something important for motorcyclists.

The idea of organizing a winter event dedicated to the world of two wheels was born in 1993, starting from a specific industry sector…that of customized motorcycles. After two years of planning, the first “Chopper & Custom Show” saw the light in 1995: a pioneering event that marked the beginning of an era. Sixty-five exhibitors, 2 pavilions totaling 7,500 square meters, 18,000 attendees… these are the numbers of the first edition.

Francesco e Paola con il figlio Federico

Chopper & Custom Show

We are in Padua, the influence of the American culture of “custom” customization is beginning to spread to Europe as well. Francesco catches the intuition and with the complicity and collaboration of Paola they create a moment that all fans of the genre, and not only… would have waited for from then on. Motorcycles, artists, preparers, artisans carve out a weekend putting their unique works on display. The public appreciates and year after year decrees the success of this event.

As many as 14 editions follow (Chopper & Custom Show until 2000, then Bike Expo until 2008), growing steadily, so much so that it progressively embraces the world of sports competitions, very much in vogue in the 1990s and 2000s, of mass production, thanks to a special mix of craftsmanship and industry, thanks to the presence of Motorcycle Manufacturers and international distribution giants.

Chopper & Custom Show: Ospiti internazionali

Motor Bike Expo

In 2009 the organizers, working tirelessly, organized in Verona an event of international caliber capable of attracting the major players in the industry. These are the prerequisites for the realization of the first edition of Motor Bike Expo. The event succeeds in involving the world of off-road, touring and all-round specials such as the cafe racer trend and the comeback of scramblers. Outdoor shows, exhibitions of all disciplines, and active experiences to excite and entertain the public are clearly enhanced. The growth and success of the format are announced, year after year the event expands and carves out a leading status in the insiders’ calendar.

After 30 years, the success of the event is glaring, with an increase in numbers in all respects: exhibitors from 65 became 720, halls from 1 to 7 (+5 outdoor areas) totaling more than 100,000 square meters from the 7,500 of the first edition. Visitor attendance from 18,000 becomes an impressive 160,000.

The next appointment is set for January 19-21 at Veronafiere, to discover together the 2024 edition of Motor Bike Expo. Many things not to be missed, such as the confirmation of the major motorcycle manufacturers and the presence of the entire customization scene: preparers, artists, craftsmen and distributors kick off the traditional appointment, in addition to unseen activities such as the Small Wheels District for moped and scooter enthusiasts; great enthusiasm also from the off-road and mototourism sector… MBE reconfirms itself as an event of international caliber for enthusiasts and industry companies.

MBE 2017: Francesco Agnoletto and Paola Somma with host and judge Vittorio Sgarbi

Non solo organizzatori di eventi

Today the reality has a staff of more than a dozen people employed full time, with the departments of Communication, Media and Press, Marketing and “Sales”, Technical… not only with the focus on the organization of big events, but also with a 360° activity on the promotion level. Today, Paola and Francesco’s organization, thanks also to the involvement of their son Federico, is able to support companies in brand development, with customized solutions, so as to maximize their visibility in an increasingly competitive and moving market.

“30 years of experience, encapsulated in achievements, skills and, above all, knowledge of the industry. Being entrepreneurs, mostly from the Veneto region, pushes toward the pursuit and achievement of goals, this approach takes one beyond dreams and stimulates one to be a protagonist of a scenario… today world-renowned” Paola Somma, Head of Marketing and Sales and Co-Founder of Motor Bike Expo

“To see an idea, a dream come true-I think it’s something anyone desires. Motor Bike Expo is the event for those who, like me, love motorcycles in all their forms. Realizing a dream and keeping it at the highest level is not easy. But what is easy?” Francesco Agnoletto, CEO and Co-Founder of Motor Bike Expo

MBE 2012: International guests