Choppers, or "thinner" versions of the Harley motorcycle. Which chopper would be the best choice for a first motorcycle?

To understand the characteristics of choppers well, you need to know what we are talking about. Where did the name of this type of motorcycle come from, which undoubtedly catches the eye? Decades ago, before tuning parts were widely available on the market, motorcycle owners wanted to downsize their Harley at all costs. Removing all unnecessary elements, such as fenders or lighting, made clumsy bikes lighter and more fun. Thus, choppers, or “thinner” versions of Harleys, were born.

Chopper motorcycles - why do people love them so much?

Much of this is due to the movie. Prohodimetswhich made choppers very popular. From now on, everyone who wants to feel independent and adequately manage their motorcycle is relying on such a technique. The far forward fork, narrow fenderless tire, low seat and high handlebars are unmatched in the world of two-wheelers. Plus the gurgle of powerful V2 engines (unless you have a Frank Ole fantasy and want an aero engine) and a disproportionately wide rear wheel compared to the front. The only limitation is the location of gas stations.

Before thinking about which chopper to buy

The reason why there are not too many choppers in our country is not only their modest (compared to other types) popularity, but also the cost of use. Let's face it, chopper bikes aren't the cheapest. Aside from fuel costs (V2 units can burn their own), there are maintenance and parts issues. The compact design does not facilitate basic repairs and increases costs. However, this is not all you need to know before choosing a shredder.

Choppers - the price for freedom and independence

What is one of the biggest strengths of these bikes may also be their biggest weakness. V2 engines located along the frame often have cooling problems. The traditionally rushing cool air is responsible for getting the heat. So, the rear cylinder is a little worse, because it is blown by a hot blast from the front of the unit. Constant overheating of the engine causes problems with valve stem seals, rings and, as a result, excessive oil consumption. Therefore, the best choppers to start with are only liquid-cooled.

How to check the condition of the chopper?

Another problem is the already mentioned cumbersome chopper service. Some people sell bikes that require valve adjustment to save money. Access to this part of the engine is difficult due to the design of the frame and piping. Of course, we are talking about V2 units, because single-cylinder units do not have this problem. How do you know if the chopper bike you are looking at has a valve problem? Check:

•  how long does it take to start the engine;
• what are the sounds of the pistons;
• so that the valves do not make noticeable knocks.

Used motorcycles - the perfect chopper for you?

Before buying a motorcycle that has already traveled several kilometers in our country, take a close look at the condition of the chrome elements. The latter is another reason why you decided to buy such a motorcycle. It should shine and shimmer in the sun, so evaluate its visual condition very carefully. Why is this important, especially in the case of motorcycles that have been driving around our country for a long time? Choppers that have been ridden for years in wet conditions can rust as elements of different metals come into contact with each other.

Which chopper should you buy?

I would like to say that it is small and used, but this is not true. It can be argued whether you are looking for the answer to the question of which first motorcycle to buy, or whether you are wondering which chopper to choose for your first motorcycle. And this is the main difference. Experienced and conscientious motorcyclists know how to operate a two-wheeler and can handle even more power. However, complete beginners are better off not experimenting with strong units. For the safety and comfort of training, you should choose used chopper motorcycles. Then their abrasions are not so painful.

Recommended brands of choppers, or which models to consider?

If you want to buy your first chopper, the Yamaha Drag Star 650 chopper will be an interesting model. Why this one? Firstly, it is relatively light, nimble and graceful in maneuvering, and its engine is not terrible in terms of fuel consumption. The advantage for beginners is not a very powerful engine, which, however, noticeably suffers at highway speeds. However, for getting around the city or on winding roads - a great deal. Especially at the beginning.

Honda - chopper is not up to par

Another model is the Honda Shadow VT750c chopper.. 45 hp two-cylinder engine delivers very acceptable performance both on the highway and on local trails. Top speed is 160 km/h, which is enough to get started. These helicopters will be reliable even after covering tens of thousands of kilometers. It is comfortable to drive this Honda model, and cornering is not difficult. This is a good suggestion for beginners.

Buying your first chopper... now what?

Choppers allow you to drive calmly and furiously. Sports enthusiasts should tolerate the handling characteristics of this type of bike or not switch at all. However, if you are looking for a helicopter at the beginning of your adventure, you will get used to it after a season or two. What then? You can choose from other models that will give you even more pleasure. However, at some point you will notice that switching from 1100 to 1700 does not get you much. That's why it's the choice for conscious motorcyclists.

Choppers can be very interesting bikes to start your riding adventure. However, you should be aware of some of the risks associated with the operation, which can be burdensome. So you should think about buying and not rush with it.