Indiana Motorcycle & Powersports Expo 2027, Indianapolis
Dates
19–28 Feb 2027
City / country
Indianapolis, United States
Venue
Indiana State Fairgrounds
Are you the organiser of this event?
Event overview
The Indiana Motorcycle & Powersports Expo 2027 brings dealers, riders and powersports buyers to the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis for two weekends, February 19-21 and 24-28.
The 32nd annual show fills Expo Hall and the Champions Pavilion with new motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, gear and custom builds.
It is a consumer show where Midwest riders can compare brands and buy directly from dealers.
TL;DR
Two full weekends let riders compare every major brand, sit on the latest models and buy gear at show prices. The fairgrounds setting is easy to reach by car, and the same ticket window covers Expo Hall and the Champions Pavilion.
Renfro surveys report that 89% of exhibitors would return and 82% were pleased with qualified leads, which makes the expo a low-risk Midwest sales channel. Exhibitors reach riders from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois and Michigan without travelling to five separate metro shows.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
2Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 East 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, United States
Entrances & gates
East 38th Street main gate
Primary vehicle entrance for visitors and exhibitors.
On-grounds parking is available off East 38th Street; exhibitors receive a limited number of parking passes and trailer parking is free.
Food options
Fairgrounds concession stands
On-site diningParking: Enter from East 38th Street and follow show staff to exhibitor or public parking. Trailer parking is free on the grounds and show parking passes are distributed to exhibitors.
Gate: Public gates open at the fairgrounds; follow signs to Expo Hall and the Champions Pavilion. Allow extra time on opening mornings for queueing.
Attend
Ticket info
Badge collection
Consumer admission, no trade badge required. Bring a photo ID if collecting will-call tickets.
Ticket notes
The 2027 ticket price and daily opening hours were not printed on the official show page at the time of research. Check the organiser page before travelling; admission is sold to the public.
Who runs the show
Renfro Productions & Management Inc.
Organiser
What's on
Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show
Renfro Productions runs this companion outdoor show at the same fairgrounds complex in February.
Indiana State Fairgrounds; confirm whether admission is shared before planning a single trip.
WebsiteHow the last edition performed
Last edition
2026
Edition #: 31
This edition
2027
Visitors: 25,000
Exhibitors: 350
Next edition
2028
Renfro Productions lists February 2028 as the next edition window for the Indiana Motorcycle & Powersports Expo at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
Return to the Indiana State Fairgrounds in February 2028
Edition recap
The 2026 edition ran February 20 to March 1 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds across two weekends, with Monday and Tuesday closed between them. No visitor or exhibitor totals were published.
New this edition
Impact
A two-weekend format gives the expo unusual dwell time for a consumer motorcycle show: riders can return with a partner or a friend after a first look, and dealers get a second selling weekend without a second set-up. For buyers, the main value is side-by-side comparison of OEM models plus aftermarket gear in one trip.
Audience quality
The organiser reports that 52% of attendees are aged 25-54, 37% have attended for four or more years and 83% plan to return. Those are self-reported survey figures, but they describe a repeat, purchase-minded rider audience rather than a casual day out.
Exhibitor outcomes
Treat the show as a lead-generation and inventory-turn event rather than a pure brand display. With two weekends, staff the second weekend as strongly as the first and book dealer meetings around the Saturday peaks. Renfro reports 82% exhibitor satisfaction with qualified leads, but exhibitors should set their own cost-per-lead target.
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
The expo is a regional selling floor for a riding market that stretches across Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois and Michigan. Indianapolis is within a day's drive of those metros, so the show gives OEMs and dealers a single February venue instead of five separate market visits.
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Adventure and dual-sport bikes keep gaining share
Riders are moving toward machines that can handle gravel and touring as well as commuting, and accessory brands are following with luggage, crash protection and tyres.
What it changes: Dealers should stock ADV and dual-sport trim and aftermarket fitments, not only cruisers and sportbikes.
SourceUTV and side-by-side demand broadens the buyer base
Powersports buyers increasingly arrive as families shopping for utility and recreation vehicles, not only as solo motorcycle riders.
What it changes: Exhibitors that show UTVs alongside motorcycles reach a wider household audience and higher-ticket sales.
SourceGear and apparel move to direct, try-before-you-buy selling
Helmets, jackets and boots are increasingly bought where riders can try sizes and compare fit, which favours show floors over pure online catalogues.
What it changes: Apparel exhibitors should bring a broad size run and fitting staff rather than display-only samples.
SourceThe Indiana expo anchors the February Midwest season, with a Fort Wayne warm-up in January and the Indianapolis fairgrounds boat and travel show sharing the same venue complex.
Midwest Motorcycle & Powersports Expo
Fort Wayne, United States
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum; dates confirmed by the 2027 listing.
websiteIndianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show
Indianapolis, United States
Renfro Productions runs this companion event at the Indiana State Fairgrounds; confirm exact 2027 dates with the organiser.
websiteJanuary
Fort Wayne opening event.
February
Two weekends at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
Circuit dates combine the organiser calendar with public 2027 listings; confirm companion-show dates before booking travel.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Indianapolis International Airport
Closest full-service airport; rental cars, taxis and ride-hail on site.
about 8 miles
to venue
15-20 minutes
by car
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
Alternative for southwest Ohio and Kentucky travellers driving up I-74.
about 112 miles
to venue
1 hour 50 minutes
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 85–130 / night
Simple rooms within a 15-25 minute drive; book early because the show runs two weekends.
sourceUSD 150–215 / night
Walkable downtown base with restaurants; 15-20 minutes to the fairgrounds.
sourceUSD 235–340 / night
Larger rooms and full service for exhibitor teams and client dinners.
sourceGet around the city with these convenient transport options.
IndyGo bus
Local fixed-route service; check the current IndyGo timetable for event-day frequency.
Ride-hail or taxi
Most convenient for exhibitors carrying samples; allow extra time on Saturday.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B-1 business visitor | Travellers who are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program and need to attend meetings or a trade show | $185.00 | Varies by consulate; apply well before travel |
Visa Waiver Program nationals may travel for business under ESTA; verify eligibility and ESTA validity before booking.
Confirm carnet acceptance with the freight forwarder and U.S. Customs before shipping display vehicles.
Official visa pageWeather
February in Indianapolis is cold and changeable: typical highs near 4-7 C and lows near -4 to 0 C, with snow or ice possible. Pack a warm coat and allow travel buffer for winter weather.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Fairgrounds Wi-Fi is limited in public halls. Exhibitors can contract internet through the venue electrician, Ermco, and should bring a cellular hotspot as backup.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Tipping and service
Restaurant servers expect 18-20% tips and bar staff USD 1-2 per drink. Hotel housekeeping is usually tipped USD 2-5 per night.
Business dress
The show is casual and outdoor-oriented. Dealers and exhibitors usually wear branded polo shirts or jackets; downtown restaurants accept smart casual.
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
Book flights into IND and allow a 30-45 minute buffer for rental car pickup. Show weekends are February 19-21 and 24-28, 2027.
Book flightsU.S. citizens need no visa. Most international business visitors need either a B-1 visa or an approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program.
Estimated cost: USD 185 for a B-1 visa; ESTA about USD 21
Processing: B-1 interviews vary by consulate; apply at least 8-12 weeks ahead
Carry a show invitation or exhibitor letter for the visa interview and at entry.
OfficialGet to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: IND to the Indiana State Fairgrounds is about 8 miles and 15-20 minutes by car via I-70 East and North Keystone Avenue.
Hotel → venue: Downtown hotels are 15-20 minutes by car; ride-hail is usually easiest.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft serve Indianapolis; expect USD 14-22 from downtown and USD 28-40 from IND.
Public transit: IndyGo routes connect downtown with the East 38th Street corridor, but service is infrequent on weekends; check the timetable.
Parking: On-grounds parking is available off East 38th Street. Exhibitors receive a limited number of passes; public parking is paid at fairgrounds rates.
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: February
Temperature: -4 C to 7 C
Seasonality: Snow, sleet and rain are all possible; February is one of the colder months in central Indiana.
Packing: Warm coat, waterproof shoes, gloves and a power bank for long days on the floor.
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Saturday, February 20, 2027
Saturday is the only full weekend day in the first block, so dealers staff their strongest teams and demo inventory is available. Arrive at opening to compare models before the afternoon crowd.
Book hotel and confirm the two-weekend show dates — February is a busy month; choose a refundable downtown or airport-corridor rate.
Buy admission or confirm the ticket channel — The official page did not print 2027 prices; check it before paying a third party.
Plan which brands and halls to cover — List target models, gear sizes and dealer questions before arriving.
Check the weather and parking plan — Snow is possible; allow extra driving time and bring warm clothing.
Charge devices and pack documents — Bring a power bank, photo ID and any finance pre-approval for a vehicle purchase.
Arrive, park and collect tickets at the gate
East 38th Street entranceCompare new models in Expo Hall
Expo HallLunch and gear fitting
Fairgrounds concession areaMeet dealers and custom builders
Champions PavilionIndianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Motorsport Heritage
About 20 minutes from downtown
See Indy 500 cars and memorabilia; a natural add-on for petrolheads.
White River State Park and downtown canal
Urban Walk
15-20 minutes from the fairgrounds
Restaurants, museums and a walkable downtown evening after the show.
Downtown Indianapolis restaurant district
After-show dining
Mass Avenue and Georgia Street have clusters of restaurants for dealer dinners.
Team hotel lobby bars
Informal meetings
Staying at the same downtown hotel as exhibitors makes spontaneous meetings easier.
Two weekends create two lead waves. Treat the first weekend as a pipeline build and the second as a close, then reconcile both lists before judging show ROI.
Budget
Shell scheme
USD 65–110 / m²
Raw space
USD 25–45 / m²
Standard booth
9 m²
No 2027 tariff was printed on the official page. Bands are planner estimates for a Midwest consumer show and exclude furniture, carpet, rigging and additional power.
sourceAdjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
booth
exhibitor · standard
USD 1800–3000 / 9 sqm shell package
hotel
visitor · mid
USD 150–215 / per night
per_diem
visitor · standard
USD 50–80 / per day
visa
international · B-1
USD 185 / per application
insurance
exhibitor · liability
USD 100–250 / per show
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| booth | exhibitor | standard | USD 1800–3000 / 9 sqm shell package | estimate | 2026-11-04 |
| hotel | visitor | mid | USD 150–215 / per night | estimate | 2026-11-04 |
| per_diem | visitor | standard | USD 50–80 / per day | estimate | 2026-11-04 |
| visa | international | B-1 | USD 185 / per application | published | 2026-11-04 |
| insurance | exhibitor | liability | USD 100–250 / per show | estimate | 2026-11-04 |
Decision
Six quick questions score whether this show is worth a visit, a booth or a pass.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
Which best describes your reason for looking at the show?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You have a model shortlist and want to compare brands in person.
Best for
Riders and families shopping for a bike or gear
Min. budget
$100.00
Timeline
A day in February 2027
Risks
Crowded Saturday aisles
Winter travel delays
exhibit
You can staff both weekends and have a lead follow-up process.
Best for
OEMs, dealers and aftermarket brands selling to Midwest riders
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
Book 90 days ahead
Risks
Two-weekend staffing cost
Lead follow-up discipline
skip
You are not shopping, selling or travelling to Indianapolis this winter.
Best for
Buyers with no 2027 vehicle or gear plans
Timeline
Reassess for February 2028
Risks
Missing dealer show specials
Losing a weekend
Book with
Indiana State Fairgrounds
Host venue for Expo Hall and the Champions Pavilion.
Public venue, not a paid sponsor.
Indianapolis Airport Authority
Operates Indianapolis International Airport (IND), the closest gateway.
Public airport authority, not a show partner.
Indy Chamber
Regional business network for exhibitor introductions and local contacts.
Public chamber resource, not a confirmed partner.
American Motorcyclist Association
National rider advocacy and racing organisation based in Ohio.
Industry association resource, not a confirmed partner.
Recommended providers
Official B-1 business visa guidance and appointment booking.
Filter for free cancellation and downtown or airport-corridor properties.
Compare fares into IND; book 6-8 weeks ahead.
Fern Exposition & Event Services
Show decorator and freight handler; order services before the deadline.
Travel and exhibitor liability cover; confirm the certificate wording with the organiser.
Official city guide for restaurants, museums and the speedway.
Bring your own scanning app; no official 2027 vendor was published.
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
5 more alternate names hidden
Trust footer
4
References
3
Publishers
4
Date checked
Renfro Productions
CycleFish
Shows This Weekend
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