In the late 90s and early 00s, custom motorcycles hit the mainstream. Custom builders like Orange County Choppers and West Coast Choppers were featured on television and became status symbols for a multitude of riders across the globe. Bikes built by these experts cost tens of thousands of dollars and were a rider's pride and joy. Unfortunately, most riders can't afford custom motorcycles built by one of the big names, and, besides, the waiting list is longer than the trip from Sturgis to Little Sturgis. The upside is that many custom motorcycle builders have sprung up from the dry well and can offer you the same quality for much less.
When you're searching for the right custom motorcycle builder, there are a few things you'll need to remember. If you're looking for serious power, check out some of the builder's previous work. A good custom drivetrain package contains the engine, transmission, starter and belt drive that will give your bike all the power you need. The drivetrain comes in different colors and styles, though black, silver or natural are most common. A natural finish means that the metal looks exactly as it appears when cast. Make sure that the builder specializes in the drivetrain package you choose.
Another factor to consider is the kind of gas tank that the builder can offer you. Builders are usually more knowledgeable in the workings and design of certain types of gas tanks than others. If you need a stretch tank, you'll have no trouble finding a custom motorcycle builder, since stretch tanks are one of the most popular styles. An expert in hybrid tanks may be a bit harder to find.
If you're really lucky, you'll find a builder that can produce a great tank from scratch, giving your ride a completely unique appearance. The gas tank is one of the most important components of your bike, and you may want to stick with an old rule: bigger is better. More room in the tank means less stopping at gas stations.
A builder with the ability or connections to give you a great paint job is essential. Whether or not the builder can actually paint, he should have someone he works with or can recommend to you. Traditional flames should be no trouble, but finding someone to give you a design far off the beaten path will take some hunting. Skulls are another traditional option, whether they're the ghost of Davy Jones or the Grim Reaper himself. If you want a roaring lion or an eagle on the prowl for its prey, make sure that your builder can provide the paint job you want. Maybe you want something a bit more subtle. In that case, a cool wash of color or a variation on a familiar logo may be what you're after. Again, check with your prospective custom motorcycle builder to see what he can offer.
With some luck and a bit of homework, you'll have the custom motorcycle that's the envy of your riding buddies. Take care of it, make sure it's as clean as the day you first took it home, and always ride responsibly.
Motorcycles have long since been associated with the crazy and daring stunts performed on them by some of the most daring riders in the history of motorcycle riding. Some of the most memorable moments in history involved custom motorcycles and daredevil stunts that people are sure to remember. Here are three of the most famous custom motorcycles and the daredevil stunts they inspired.
1. 1972 Harley Davidson XR750
If these custom motorcycles sound familiar, they should. These bikes were made famous by none other than the most widely known motorcycle stunt rider, Evel Knievel. This XR750 was almost identical to the 1970 XR 750, with one crucial difference. Instead of being iron barrel, it was aluminum alloy. Evel Knievel used these custom motorcycles for many jumps and these light, only about 300 pounds, custom motorcycles made breaking records easy for Evel Knievel. Every one recognizes the stars on Evel Knievel's cape and the matching ones on the custom motorcycles seat of his bikes.
2. 1949 CZ
This was a Czechoslovakian motorcycle, literally the ceska zbrojowka, which translates to mean weapon factory in English. These custom motorcycles were made famous by the brilliant actor James Dean, who is most famous for his role in the smash hit 'Rebel Without a Cause'. The 1948 model of the CZ was the first series of 350 ccs. It used the same frame as the 250 cc model. The motor of the 1949 CZ owned by James Dean had flat pistons, reverse flow, and a 358 cc capacity. Though James Dean died at the young age of 24, his memory has never been stronger. James Dean also had another brand of custom motorcycles. He had a British Triumph T 110 customized with "Dean's Dilemma" on the side of it. Though he is known for his role in 'Rebel Without a Cause' and that had no motorcycle in it, he is also frequently pictured atop his motorcycle with a cigarette hanging out of the corner of his mouth.
3. 1963 Desert Triumph
This famous motorcycle was owned by world renowned tough guy actor, Steve McQueen (The Great Escape, The Magnificent Seven, Bullit). These custom motorcycles were 500 cc off road motorcycles. Apparently, Steve McQueen and Dennis Hopper pulled over to the side of the road to watch a couple of other guys on bikes. After seeing them, he rushed right out and bought his very own triumph.
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