What is a Chopper?

Metric Choppers on the Rise

Few road vehicles look as unique and stunning as a Chopper. These customized bikes epitomize all things wild and creative in the bike world. In simple terms, a chopper is a bike, with parts ‘chopped off’. Traditionally a Harley Davidson or Indian, were the most common choppers, but its not just for them anymore. More metric bike owners are going with a chopper look and one of the most common bikes to get these modifications is the Honda VTX. These modifications are done in order to make the vehicle lighter, easier to maneuver, more eye-catching, definitely more individualized.

Choppers started appearing around World War II, when soldiers returning home desired lighter bikes, like the ones they had used in Europe. In order to get the desired effect, they began removing unwanted parts from their bikes back home, which resulted in the “birth” of choppers. Over the years, the concept of choppers evolved and was not restricted to only chopping off parts from the vehicle. Several people started customizing their bikes in order to suit their personal tastes. Customized chopper parts soon became a craze and took the market by storm.

The most popular chopper parts that bike enthusiasts tend to fiddle around with are the handlebars, wheels and tires. In most choppers, the handlebars are extended to give the rider greater comfort, especially during long road-trips. The wheels are often customized to add that extra bit of style to the bike. While magnesium alloy wheels are growing in popularity, several still prefer the normal spoke wheels. The most exotic of these wheels are the classic 160 and 120 spoke wheels. Tires are another significant feature of choppers. In most cases, the front wheel is narrowed down while the rear one is broadened to provide extra grip and stability. Most common sizes are a 21” front wheel and a rear wheel of 240, although it is not unusual to see a 260 or even a 300. Having “Fat Tires” as they are referred to, often require more extensive medications to the motorcycle, such as swing arm modifications, a new rear fender, and most often a custom seat.

Other popular chopper parts include fuel tanks, raked frames, seats, front fenders, handlebar controls, forward controls and front and rear brakes. Several of these parts can be further customized upon the request of the owner. Before making the purchase, one must make sure the parts are from a genuine dealer and are compatible with the vehicle. Although some of the chopper parts would seem a bit pricey, they definitely serve to highlight the beauty and individuality of these fantastic machines.

Category 5 Custom Cycles, in Winston-Salem, NC is an upcoming name in metric customization. Everything from service to custom sheet metal and everything in-between. Visit us at www.cat5customs.com.