Running the original motorcycle allows you to maintain registration or licensing more easily, as you are running an original manufacturer’s vehicle with their registration numbers. Ride the motorcycle, get a feel for what you like “as is” and what you want to modify. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/0/0e/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet2. jpg/v4-460px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet2. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/0/0e/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet2. jpg/aid694251-v4-728px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet2. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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<br />\n</p></div>"} Modify any original parts, taking advantage of the original mounting brackets and hardware. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/7/7f/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet3. jpg/v4-460px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet3. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/7/7f/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet3. jpg/aid694251-v4-728px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet3. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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<br />\n</p></div>"} Add or subtract parts as time and money allow, while keeping the bike in running order, to minimize down time and prolong your riding enjoyment. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/2/2e/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet4. jpg/v4-460px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet4. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/2/2e/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet4. jpg/aid694251-v4-728px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-1Bullet4. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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The registration numbers belong to the frame, so you can start either with a salvage project from an original manufacturer, or with an aftermarket manufacturer specializing in rolling frames.
As the wheels, front suspension and frame already work together as a unit, you know what drivetrain will fit the basic dimensions of your bike, lessening the guesswork involved.
This option may appeal to first-time builders in particular, as all the parts are designed and built to fit together; the manufacturer can address problems or warranty issues.
Have a well-lit, uncluttered space you can dedicate solely to the project. You will be building in stages, leaving you with a partially assembled chopper in this space for a long period of time. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/e/ea/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet1. jpg/v4-460px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet1. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/e/ea/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet1. jpg/aid694251-v4-728px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet1. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.
0/">Creative Commons</a>
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<br />\n</p></div>"} This option may cost the most up front, as you will be purchasing most or all the components of a new motorcycle at the same time. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/e/e4/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet2. jpg/v4-460px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet2. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/e/e4/Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet2. jpg/aid694251-v4-728px-Build-a-Chopper-Motorcycle-Step-5Bullet2. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.
0/">Creative Commons</a>
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Usually only advanced mechanics take on this option, as it entails a lot of time, resources and skill. Experienced chopper builders also understand what works or fits together and what doesn’t.
Look for a large motorcycle shop or even a junkyard that has a dedicated area for motorcycles as a starting point, both as a parts source and a place to turn to for advice.
Get mechanical assistance in building or rebuilding drivetrains, creating or modifying custom body parts and painting or plating bare metal.