Want to build a chopper?

What does it take to Build A Chopper ? You're probably thinking the answer to that is about $25,000 minimum, but not necessarily. Custom motorcycle fabrication is an interesting blend of art, physics, welding and painting. It really depends on your vision of the perfect chopper motorcycle.

If you're dead set on a new 100 inch V-twin motor and lots of chrome (and who isn't :0) AND you want to minimize your costs and time, a build a chopper bike kit might be right for you. Custom Chrome offers HR3 bike kits that include every nut and bolt you need to get your project off the ground.

I've always tended to be a do-it-yourselfer. From bike maintenance to remodeling the 90 year old farm house that we now live in, I feel like I need to have control of the process, and that nobody knows what I want more than me. (I will say that as I get older this is becoming less of a "problem" ;-).

Just after the first time I paid a dealer's shop over $100 to check my valve clearances, I signed up for a correspondence course in motorcycle maintenance. . . I haven't had my bike back in a shop since!

The first thing I always do when I start to tackle something new like build a chopper, is to surround myself with books and magazines about the subject. I read at every opportunity and absorb as much information as possible. I got this from my Father. Over the years he trained himself to fix appliances and cars and built machines like log splitters and car haulers.

Anyway. . .you CAN build your own chopper on a much smaller budget if you want to start with a stock bike and modify it. You can also get deals on parts at local swap meets. Either way you need a good portion of the following to sucessfully build a chopper (and this is by no means a complete list):

• Creativity
• Engine building/mechanic skills
• Experience in metal fabrication and welding
• Patience
• A clear vision of the final product
• An eye for what lines look good on a motorcycle

RESOURCES

If YOU could use more education about what it takes to build your own chopper, try one or more of these resources:

Books:

build a chopper frame
This E-book shows the right way to approach the job and what to look for. Plus, it helps to stop problems from being created later on by pointing them out prior to construction!

motorcycle painting secrets
Motorcycle Painting Secrets is a step-by-step guide that shows you the inside secrets, tips, and techniques you need to know to paint your motorcycle successfully.

How to Set up Your Motorcycle Workshop
A builder doesn't need much space, just a good idea and the right tools and materials!

How to: Custom Paint & Graphics
Reviewer quote: "This book had all the information I needed to Custom paint my motorcycle. it covered everything from the tools to the techniques."

101 Harley-Davidson Performance Projects
Tips for tuning your V-Twin motor for maximum performance.

Welder's Handbook : A Complete Guide
A great resource for the beginning or experienced welder.

Advanced Sheet Metal Fabrication
A must if you're planning on fabrication your own tanks and fenders.

Ultimate Sheet Metal Fabrication
Reviewer quote: "Hi My name's Dave. I own a company that makes custom motorcycle parts and I found this book to be a great source of info and ideas. I would reccomend this book to everyone in my industry, or anyone intrested in sheetmetal fabrication."

Online sources for Parts and tools:

J&P Cycles
The site is one of the most complete internet resources for motorcycle enthusiasts. You can user their search tool to see their complete line of chopper parts. They also have technical tips, customer bike photos, and links to other motorcycle sites. "J&P Cycles® prides itself on first rate customer service and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee."

How To Choose A Chrome Plater
Once you feel comfortable that you can build a chopper, you'll need to get your fabricated parts chrome plated. Read my article, How To Choose A Chrome Plater for more information.

Inspiration:

Look no further than Orange County Choppers if you need inspiration to build a chopper. These guys are awesome!

Look at pictures of custom choppers built by full time shops.

If all else fails, read about the origins of Chopper Motorcycles , or watch the movie Easy Rider .

I really do hope this article and these resources will inspire your own creativity and jump start your chopper project.

If you DO build your own chopper, I'd love to see pictures and hear the story behind it. If you already have your own custom chopper, contact me for instructions to send your pics and your story. I'll work on a gallery page to display your handiwork!