We have all seen the custom choppers that are being built at the shows and on TV. I actually see them at the world famous Rock Store. Heck, I know they look good but are they actually safely ridable.

I was watching some guy in the canyons on one of those things. It looked like he had a 350 rear tire. I was amazed that he could even ride the thing. It could probably stay upright without a kickstand!

What do you guys think?

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Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.
Biker and Motorcycle Lawyer Blog
www.bikerlawblog.com

A proficient rider that gets used to one shouldn't have any problems with these bikes. But most people that buy them aren't proficient riders. For the most part the equipment is all there, and they are light years ahead of the 60/70's style choppers. Unlike their older cousins they generally have good brakes, and handle relitively well. I couldn't afford one, and wouldn't buy one if I could. I have ridden several of them, and haven't noticed any mechanical safety problems, but I am a proficient rider with 30+ years of experience on all different types of motorcycles, and a lot of miles. A newbie, or weekend rider should probably own something a little more conservative.

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"DUCK" WV

I've often wondered the same thing. I guess you have to adjust your riding style to suit the bike, though. Turn-in on those things has to be horrendous, between the long wheelbase and the huge rear tires.

No, I call them "butt jewelry".  Few of the builder's understand the physics behind two wheels. Rake, trail and flop. Too much or too little of either rake or trail and you have "flop", which means the front wheel wants to flop to one side or the other. The builders that understand the physics build some OK machines. They don't fit my riding style as I'm into long distance sport touring and commute everyday on a motorcycle, about 80 miles. I've been riding my whole life, raced, ALWAYS had a motorcycle. Always will.

I always gear up, IE...full face helmet, full amoured gear, gloves...etc.....always.....period!

 

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Superior riders use superior knowledge and superior experience to avoid situations that require superior skill.

BMW R1200ST

 

Hi

You are not clear with your thoughts, will you give more information. So I can help you out in this matter.

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It's just on the driver if he's driving with all the safety gears. But, sometimes even chopper drivers get to stumble upon on some roads because of the debris on it like tar snakes or out of place barriers.

It is never a safe way for the driving with these types of custom choppers, the riders on TV just show a way which can not be performed in real life.