What is a custom chopper?
Custom choppers are cruiser bikes “built to spec” by custom shops. They often are designed to resemble the modified highway bikes of the ’60s, featuring low saddle seats, extended forks, “ape hanger” handlebars, and “chopped off” components. Originally, the term “chopper” came from the practice of halving the rear mudguard to increase bike speed. Custom choppers also are sold as kits to be assembled by the rider. Shop-built customs cost more than factory bikes from major manufacturers due to their construction, specialty parts, and premium paint jobs. Chopper motorcycles can retail for $40,000. A new, high-end Harley can sell for $20,000.
