chopper motorcycles

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

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

 Chopper Motorcycle Thanksgiving

 Chopper Motorcycle Thanksgiving

The crisp autumn air swirled around the small town of Harmony Springs as the scent of roasted turkey and pumpkin pie wafted from the cozy kitchens. It was Thanksgiving, a time for family, friends, and of course, motorcycles.

Chopper Motorcycle Thanksgiving

Motorcycle Thanksgiving

Among the townsfolk was a young man named Ethan, a passionate biker with a dream to build his own custom motorcycle, a fantasy chopper that would turn heads and leave jaws on the floor. His garage was his sanctuary, filled with tools, scraps of metal, and the intoxicating aroma of motor oil. (more…)

By biker1, ago

2006 Big Dog k9 Motorcycle

2006 Big Dog k9 Motorcycle

The Big Dog k9 is my favorite Factory custom chopper.   My second best Factory custom chopper is the American Ironhorse Texas Chopper.

Personally I’ve owned a number of these great bikes, and  really feel that if you’re into choppers  it would be hard to go wrong with a Big Dog. (more…)

By biker1, ago

Ironhorse Chopper Motorcycle Ride

Ironhorse Chopper Motorcycle Ride

This is a look back on one of the nicest choppers that I’ve owned.  I’m sure we all do it, that is, look back at some of our past rides.

I mean, I have a great-looking Big Dog K-9 now, but, I still love this American Ironhorse Texas Chopper.  This was the first bike of the many that I’ve owned, that I had custom painted. I’m sure we’d all agree it would be nice if money was no object, the kind of be like Jay Leno, and we could have your own storage facility to keep all your best rides. (more…)

By biker1, ago