American Choppers

[bikercelt1]

I was going to say that Orange County Choppers and all the other "big name" show bike builder build off shows are just entertaining "mechanical soap operas", but it looks to me like you guys have sized that up already. Fun to watch, but it's not someplace real people can live. I, however, have to deal with people on a daily basis who think all those creations are real and want to "build something just like that".

Jamie

[bubba]

I gotta admit I like some of the stuff Matt Hotch does, like setting the frame on the ground instead of using a kickstand and the uniarm swing arm, but these bikes sure ain't for everyday riding.

[bikercelt1]

I gotta admit I like some of the stuff Matt Hotch does, like setting the frame on the ground instead of using a kickstand and the uniarm swing arm, but these bikes sure ain't for everyday riding.

Absolutely Bubba! There is some real "outside the box" thinking out there, and some real artistry. It's just that I have to deal with some real dim bulbs that think those conceptual sculptures are real functional motorcycles. Then they want to monopolise my time with their pipe dreams of how they're going to build something just like that and travel cross country on it fighting off packs of adoring Beauty Queens. Still in all, I feel blessed. I'd rather be working in a H-D shop than anywhere else, I guess it just comes with the territory.

Jamie

[bubba]

Did you see the bike where Hotch put the disc brake under the cover instead of at the rear hub? Outstanding concept and makes for a real clean look. It essentially made the chain part of the brake. I just wouldn't want to have to depend on the smaller disc and caliper in traffic.

[bikercelt1]

Did you see the bike where Hotch put the disc brake under the cover instead of at the rear hub? ... It essentially made the chain part of the brake.

I didn't see that one. I'd be a bit concerned about the brake delay due to chain lash and wonder about the ability to modulate brake pressure. But then again, like we said, these aren't functional daily vehicles.

Jamie

[Mike1]

I was going to say that Orange County Choppers and all the other "big name" show bike builder build off shows are just entertaining "mechanical soap operas", but it looks to me like you guys have sized that up already. Fun to watch, but it's not someplace real people can live.

But wouldn't we all like to have a piece of the OCC apparel sales? Yikes, can you imagine what that is amounting to?

[Bob C]

Just make sure your donor card is signed before you ride.

That's solid advice on ANY bike. They call them "donorcycles" for a reason.

[Canuck]

That's solid advice on ANY bike. They call them "donorcycles" for a reason.

That's because most of the people that drive on 4 wheels don't pay attention to the way they drive!! If it were mandatory that drivers learned how to drive on a motorcycle and took a motorcycle course they would learn the art of defensive driving. Do I have an opinion on this? you betcha! Having said that, the young folk on crotch rockets who abuse the power do cause havoc but that's a small percentage of riders. I have a daughter who will be getting her learners permit and I want her to take the motorcycle course offered at most colleges. This course instructs the rider to watch the driver in the cage as well as always looking for an escape route. The techniques that are taught in these courses also can be put to good practise when driving a cage.
I have not signed a donor card... in part due to my M.S.
I have been riding for 34 years legally. Both my parents rode, it was part of my culture.
I've only seen American chopper a few times, some of the fabrication is interesting. I just want to learn how to stretch the tank on my Madura 'cause the range on this bike on a tank of fuel is pityful! Off the soapbox and onto sewing more kilts....

[Southern Breeze]

People definatly don't seem to to pay attention,both in automobiles and on motorcycles.I'm a first responder and in the past two months I've seen six accidents involving motorcycles."I didn't see him" is the main excuse I've heard by far.
Orange County and the other custom builders do nice work,but I'd rather have something I can ride anywhere,anytime and not worry about the day to day wear and tear.

[KiltedCodeWarrior]

Ok, sitting here watching the episode and they are being much more respectful to the kilt and traditional dress than I would have expected. One question, what is the tartan/kilt Paul Jr. is wearing. Looks like a traditional kilt from the front (not sure of the tartan but has some blue, black, and I think white), but the pleats depict a saltire! Looks very sharp and would definitely be on my list for a kilt to buy.