Motorcycles, music, art and pure Atlantic feeling: Bad & Bold was there live at the Wheels & Waves Festival 2025 in Biarritz – and we soaked up every minute.
After a few years of absence, the anticipation was huge – and it didn't disappoint: Wheels & Waves was back, full of energy, full of creativity, and that unique blend of custom culture and genuine French savoir-vivre. However, it also felt like there were significantly fewer visitors.
The magic of Wheels & Waves
From June 11 to 15, 2025, Biarritz transformed into a hotspot for the international motorcycle, surf, and skate community. Between the coastline and the Pyrenees, customizers, artists, brands, and riders from all over the world met—and we, of course, were right in the middle of it all.
Whether at the Artride exhibition, at the legendary Punk's Peak Races or simply on the festival grounds in Cité de l'Océan – everywhere you could feel: This is not just about motorcycling, but about a lifestyle.
What excited us
✨ Custom bikes with soul – from classic to crazy, from old-school choppers to futuristic flat trackers
🌊 Surf & Skate Culture – the proximity to the water is reflected in fashion, mindset and music
🎸 Live bands & DJ sets – authentic soundtrack for long nights among like-minded people, even if the closing band on Saturday was a bit irritating for us
🛠 Inspiring conversations with brands, creators and real characters
🧥 Style & Substance – Riding Gear and Fashion that combine function and aesthetics from Eudoxie, Hedon, Wildust and Resurgence Gear, among others
Why Wheels & Waves is more than a festival
For us at Bad & Bold, Wheels & Waves isn't just an event – it's a statement, and it's been that way for 14 years. It represents what drives us: passion, craftsmanship, and community. Even though it's slowed down a bit in recent years and the spirit isn't quite as strong. But we still enjoy coming back – to pick up new ideas, meet like-minded people, and broaden our horizons.
Review & Outlook
This year was different. While every conversation conveyed that the scene is still vibrant, bold, and ready for new things, we met old friends and gathered many impressions – yet many familiar brands and faces were still missing. Whether this is the effect of the dispute with former organizer Vincent and El Solitario, or the high entry prices, or a shift in the scene toward adventure, or simply a lack of new things? We don't know.
Nevertheless, if you've never been there, you should at least check out this diverse event on the Atlantic coast. The location and the route through the Pyrenees alone are worth the trip.
Photos: Wheels & Wave, Uwe Stegmaier
