Motorcycle Batteries Free Shipping++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

biker1

DMV’s Open Door Policy – Why AZ & CA Insurance Rates are High

DMV’s Open Door Policy

California The Two-Year Trajectory: Following massive double-digit rate increases across 2023 and 2024 (where top insurers implemented cumulative jumps exceeding 30% to 40% overall), rates continued to edge upward into 2026 by another moderate margin. All told, drivers renewing policies over the last 24 months have often faced cumulative rate shocks of 30% to over 40% depending on their exact carrier and history.

Arizona The Two-Year Trajectory: Full-coverage annual insurance rates in Arizona pushed past the $2,000 threshold on average during the peak inflationary windows of 2024. While the frantic double-digit rate hikes of previous years have largely cooled down to minor single-digit adjustments or stabilization phases, drivers are still paying roughly 20% to 25% more overall than they did at the start of the decade.

Sure, there are many factors causing these rate increases. But, one little known factor affecting California and Arizona motorist is what this article is about.

DMV’s Open Door Policy

DMV’s Open Door Policy

Why CA and AZ Drivers Pay for the DMV’s Open Door

For years, we’ve been told that auto insurance is “mandatory.” But if you’ve been to a DMV in California or an MVD in Arizona lately, you know the truth: It is mandatory on paper, but optional at the counter.

As someone who has spent over 30 years in residential real estate and insurance brokerage across both coasts, I have seen how a functional system operates—and I am currently watching a systemic failure in the West that is costing you thousands of dollars and compromising your safety.
(more…)

By biker1, ago

Collector Motorcycle Prices

Collector Motorcycle Prices

The Great Cool-Down: Why Collector Motorcycle Prices are Slipping in 2026

If you’ve been tracking the results from the major auction blocks lately—particularly the massive Mecum Las Vegas event—you’ve likely noticed a change in the air. For years, the story was one of “record-breaking” highs and “unprecedented” demand. But as we move through 2026, the data suggests a significant market correction is underway. (more…)

By biker1, ago

California’s New Mileage Tax

California’s New Mileage Tax: A “Replacement” or Just Another Bait-and-Switch?

When California passed Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) back in 2017, the sales pitch to the public was simple and urgent: our roads are crumbling, our bridges are unsafe, and we need a dedicated fund to fix the “pothole from hell.” We were told that this money was a “locked box” for road safety and infrastructure.

California’s New Mileage Tax

California’s New Mileage Tax

Fast forward to today, and that “locked box” has been picked. (more…)

By biker1, ago

The Chopper Under-Count: How Many Custom Motorcycles Are Really Registered in the U.S.?

How Many Custom Motorcycles Are Really Registered in the U.S.?

Big Dog k9 motorcycle

Big Dog k9 motorcycle

A challenging question to answer with a precise number, mainly because of the definitional and registration issues you mentioned.

Official statistics show that “chopper” motorcycles account for a very small percentage of the overall U.S. registered motorcycle population, but this figure is widely considered an undercount due to how these custom bikes are categorized.

Here is a breakdown of the data and a reasonable estimate: (more…)

By biker1, ago

NEVER Buy an Orange County Chopper

NEVER Buy an Orange County Chopper

NEVER Buy an Orange County Chopper

Orange County Chopper – OCC

  • OCC became widely known largely through American Chopper, which debuted in 2002 on Discovery Channel. The show exposed viewers to the drama, creativity, deadlines, and custom bike builds — often on very tight schedules.

  • Builds were thematic, often commissioned by corporations, sports teams, etc. The show played up both the artistry and the interpersonal conflict (especially between Sr. and Jr.).

(more…)

By biker1, ago

History of Custom Chopper Motorcycles

History of Custom Chopper Motorcycles

Ironhorse motorcycles

The history of custom chopper motorcycles in the United States is a narrative of rebellion, art, and commerce, marked by a distinct rise in cultural prominence followed by a significant decline.

The Rise: From Post-War Rebellion to Cultural Icon

The origins of the custom chopper can be traced back to the post-World War II era. Returning American servicemen, many of whom had experience with military motorcycles like those from Harley-Davidson and Indian, sought to personalize their rides. These early customizations, known as “bobbers,” involved stripping down heavy, cumbersome parts like fenders, lights, and even front brakes to reduce weight and increase speed. This was less about pure performance and more about a minimalist, raw aesthetic. (more…)

By biker1, ago