Custom Choppers and Motorcycles: A Guide

It sure is exciting to own your very own motorcycle or chopper. However, what better way to extend that excitement than by owning a custom chopper.
While shopping for a custom chopper, here are a few tips that could help you:

1. Do not ever settle for anything less than what YOU want. If you’re going all the way to buy a custom chopper, then get one that you want. Do not let any sorts of sales pitch change your mind.

2. Keep a price range in mind. There are many custom chopper makers out there. Just one shop or price tag should not influence your decisions. Some of the big names include OCC and West Coast Choppers, however other shops around can also provide you with the same thrilling chopper you’ve always wanted, at a lower price.

3. While riding a chopper, be confident. Even if you feel your confidence waive, keep things safe. Wear your helmet and leather. If, for some reason, you feel unsafe during a cruise, stop for a while and try to regain your confidence. You sure don’t want to end up in a hospital right after you get your brand new custom chopper. Though, at the same time, don’t get over confident and consider yourself a pro (if you are not). Do what you can, and stay away from what you cannot.

Parts and Reparis for Harley Davidson in Hartfort, CT Area

There are many Harley Davidson riders in the Hartford, Ct area. Some of them ride newer models like the Fatboy, the Road King and the Heritage Softail. Other Hartford, Ct area Harley Davidson riders proudly operate antique models such as Flatheads, Knuckleheads and Panheads. When one of these machines breaks down and needs a replacement part, or worse, a complete engine- rebuild, there are several businesses in the Hartford, Ct area that specialize in Harley Davidson parts and repair.

Because many Harley Davidson owners prefer to work on their own machines, virtually every component on a Harley Davidson motorcycle is available in the Hartford, Ct area. For those who prefer to have certified mechanics work on their motorcycles, factory- authorized dealerships and capable, independent shops provide several options. if a ‘Chopper’ or other custom work is desired, most Hartford, Ct area Harley Davidson parts and repair facilities can easily accomodate all requests. From nuts and bolts to engines, transmissions, wheels and frames, Hartford, Ct area Harley Davidson parts and repair facilities are ready to fulfill all of their customer’s needs.

Here is a list of six Hartford, Ct area Harley Davidson parts and repair facilities.

1.) Ranch Cycle Motor Service..121 Salmon Brook, Granby, Ct (860)844-100
When it comes to Harley Davidson parts and repair in the Hartford, Ct area, Ranch Cycle Motor Service is known as ‘the best of the best’. For over twenty years, they have been providing top- quality work to the motorcycling public. From one part, to a complete engine- rebuild, Ranch Cycle Motor Service is the dependable choice.

2.) Doc’s Motorcycle Parts..1625 Thomaston Ave, Waterbury, Ct (203)757-0295
Since 1968, Doc’s Motorcycle Parts has been providing excellent Harley Davidson parts, repair and service.

3.) Gengras Harley Davidson / Buell..221 Governor St, East Hartford, Ct (860)528-7200
Factory trained and certified technicians handle all repair work at this authorized Harley Davidson dealership. An extensive inventory of parts for all models is available. New and used Harley Davidsons for sale.

4.) Northwest Cycle..99 Court and Car Plaza, Winsted Rd, Torrington, Ct (860)482-6274
Engine and transmission rebuild- specialists. A huge selection of parts, including aftermarket replacement Harley Davidson(R) parts and accessories. They are also known for building custom Choppers.

5.) Yankee Harley Davidson..488 Farmington Ave, Rt 6, Bristol, Ct (860)583-8484
Thousands of parts and accessories are available at this authorized Harley Davidson dealership. All repairs are done by factory- trained mechanics. New and used Harley Davidsons for sale.

6.) Maciag Motorcycle Company..351 Park Street, New Britain, Ct (860)224-4240..(877)857-1901
Maciag Motorcycle Company does complete engine and transmission rebuilds, as well as all sorts of custom work. They feature a vast inventory of new and used parts. Specialists in antique motorcycles.

Here is a list of six Harley Davidson parts and repair facilities in the Hartford, Ct area.

The Evolution of the Chopper

While returning home after the World War 2, those American soldiers who were riders started to strip down their motorcycles to make them lighter. Those who had served overseas were not really satisfied with the bikes that Harley Davidson was producing, despite their loyalty to the company.

Many of them had been trained to work on bikes and other automobiles, therefore it was completely natural for them to make changes. As they talked to others more and more about their changes a new bike took form. They gave the name ‘bobber‘ to bikes that had been changed. The bike designs were inspired by those seen in Europe, since they were more compelling, lightweight and fun.

The fender was one of the first things to be changed. The front fender was almost always removed, while the fender at the back was shortened just enough to protect the rider from mud that was thrown up by the tire at the rear. They continued to make changes to their bikes and the ‘chopper‘ finally came into being. It was originally used for dirt track racing.

The process of chopping was what gave birth to the term ‘chopper’. Riders started to ‘chop off’ parts that they felt were not needed. This included big seats, big headlights, etc. They reduced the size of the fuel tank to make the ride lighter.

Over time, riders started getting rid of everything and anything that seemed too big or unnecessary. For a few parts, they decided to make smaller versions. The front tire was made smaller while the rear tire was increased in width. They would often talk to other riders and create a ‘perfect’ ride for themselves.

It did not take long for this craze to catch on. And soon after, individuals started designing custom choppers to sell to other riders. The riders therefore did not have to do the customizing work themselves. Soon, Harley Davidson started designing and building choppers for sale to the general public. Usually, trends tend to decay over the years and are forgotten. However, this one has made an amazing comeback.