Life Behind Bars: New England BMX Returns to Goffstown, NH for a Weekend of Bikes, BBQ & BMX History

If you're passionate about old school BMX, this is one event you won't want to miss. Life Behind Bars – Bikes, Barn & BBQ rolls into Goffstown, New Hampshire on July 18-19, 2026, bringing together collectors, racers, freestyle riders, and BMX legends for an unforgettable weekend celebrating BMX culture.

Hosted by Steven Kiander, Buddy Lawruk, and fellow BMX enthusiasts, this public event takes place at:

81 Montelona Road
Goffstown, NH 03045

Buy, Sell & Trade BMX Parts

Whether you're restoring a survivor, searching for rare vintage parts, or clearing out your own collection, the BMX swap meet is one of the weekend's biggest attractions.

Vendor spaces are available for just $20 per 10' x 10' spot and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis the morning of the event. Expect tables loaded with vintage BMX frames, forks, handlebars, Skyway Tuff Wheels, GT, Haro, Hutch, Redline, Mongoose, CW Racing, Dyno, and countless hard-to-find parts.

BMX Bike Show

Bring your pride and joy to compete in the BMX Bike Show.

• $10 for your first bike
• $5 for each additional bike

Multiple categories will recognize both BMX Racing and Freestyle bikes, making this a great opportunity to showcase your restoration, survivor, rider, or custom build.

Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the 1985 AFA Freestyle Masters

One of the highlights of the weekend is a special competition commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the legendary 1985 AFA Freestyle Masters, originally held at the New Hampshire Armory in Manchester.

Participants are encouraged to enter bikes that are 1985 or earlier, especially those faithfully recreating iconic professional riders and factory-sponsored bikes from the golden age of freestyle. Authentic details, period-correct components, and historically accurate builds will all be appreciated.

For fans of 1980s BMX freestyle, this promises to be one of the most exciting categories of the weekend.

Ride with the Legends

The action doesn't stop with the bike show.

Throughout the weekend attendees can enjoy:

• BMX Flatland Jam Circle
• Quarterpipe riding sessions
• Freestyle demonstrations
• Meet riders from BMX's golden era
• Connect with collectors from across New England and beyond

Whether you're an experienced rider or simply love watching classic BMX skills, there will be plenty of action throughout the event.

Special Guest Appearances

The event welcomes two legendary West Coast BMX Freestyle pioneers:

• Ron Wilkerson
• Dave Nourie

Both have played significant roles in the history and progression of freestyle BMX, making this a rare opportunity for fans to meet two icons of the sport.

Great BBQ All Weekend

No BMX gathering is complete without great food.

Jeff the Chef will be serving up some of the area's favorite BBQ throughout the weekend, keeping riders, vendors, and spectators fueled while enjoying the festivities.

Join the New England BMX Community

Events like Life Behind Bars continue to preserve the history of BMX while bringing together generations of riders who share the same passion. Whether you're buying rare parts, entering your favorite bike, meeting BMX legends, or simply spending time with fellow enthusiasts, this promises to be one of New England's premier vintage BMX weekends.

At BMX Cartel, we're proud to support and promote events that keep old school BMX alive. Be sure to bring your camera, your bikes, and your passion for the sport.

We'll see you in Goffstown!

Event Information

Event: Life Behind Bars – Bikes, Barn & BBQ
Dates: July 18–19, 2026
Location: 81 Montelona Road, Goffstown, NH 03045
Swap Meet: $20 per 10' × 10' vendor space (first come, first served)
Bike Show: $10 first bike, $5 each additional bike
Special Feature: 40th Anniversary 1985 AFA Freestyle Masters Commemorative Bike Class
Activities: BMX Parts Swap, Bike Show, Flatland Jam, Quarterpipe Riding, BBQ, Special Guests Ron Wilkerson & Dave Nourie