Flashback to 1971. Literally. Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper had sprung “Easy Rider” on the unsuspecting public in 1969 and the drive in theaters were full of classic movies like “The Hard Ride”, “Chrome and Hot Leather” and “The Wild Riders”. All of which seemed to star motorcycles, and particularly choppers. Lots of chrome, lots of noise, little substance.
A chopper. Everybody had one – or at least everybody that was anybody. Some were gorgeous pieces of rolling sculpture, most were unrideable junk. By definition, they had to have a pinched frame, an extended front fork and a hardtail. A springer front suspension was near a requirement and the exhaust had to be un-muffled. German WWII bits scored style points as did the sissy bar design. Even the best of them couldn’t be ridden more than a few miles which led them (and their riders) to be dubbed TT Racers. Tavern to tavern.
This particular Chopper (VIN: 46EL2304) is listed as an original ‘70’s build that has been sitting unused for years in Tucson, AZ. It has some really good bits including Hurst-Airheart front disc brakes, (most simply didn’t have a front brake) a chromed German WWII helmet for an oil tank, toe clutch option, Swastikas, and a complete horsepower driven overhaul. The bid is currently at $20,100 (56 bids) with the reserve not met in an auction that ends on Friday, September 23 .
If you are really interested in this motorcycle, I am close enough to Tucson to take a look for you. Let me know.