What do I need to look for when buying a chopper?

No H2O

Active Member
I've decided to take the plunge and buy a chopper.
Once I evaluate the looks and sound in person, what are some of the other things I need to evaluate in order to prevent mechanical headaches down the road?
Any advice is appreciated.
 

bigkelk9

Well-Known Member
I'l be straight with you.. they are custom machines and if ur not up to turning a wrench every now and then and learning these bikes, it's just not for you. I went from jap bikes to these and was mad as hell.. but I'll tell you what, it d nt matter where I go or what I do, I'm always getting some sort of compliment. Good luck
 

Rottweiler

Well-Known Member
Find one you like then see if the EHC has been changed. Other then that just look it over real good.
 

No H2O

Active Member
if ur not up to turning a wrench every now and then and learning these bikes, it's just not for you. I went from jap bikes to these and was mad as hell
I'm prepared to wrench the bike from time to time.
What I don't want is a repeat of my 944 Turbo restoration project that consumed the bulk of every weekend.
Additionally, I want to get on the bike with confidence that it's not going to break down while on a ride. I typically ride 30 minutes or less but given that Spring/Summer's around the corner I'll want to ride it on a daily.
If it needs fixin' I'll still have my Fat Boy as a backup.
 

SB03chopper

Active Member
I have been riding almost all my life, and almost 2 years ago I bought my 1st Big Dog, Chopper 2003. I still am a little worried about it, but had the EHC changed right after I got it, as the blinkers started acting up, and was told that was the 1st sign it was going out. I have a mech. that worked at Gateway Big Dog in St. Louis, (still does Big Dogs), so I take it to him, and ask questions about the big. Rode it for about 300 miles one day, listen to everything going on, and feeling good about the bike. After riding with the group, and talking to them, at the BBBQ in Ak. I feel so much better. This group of people on this site, or always good about helping with problems, and what to look into. Going to the meet up in June to pick up some more knowledge, let Shannon take my bike for a ride, and get some more feed back (if that is okay Shannon). My bike's Vin. is 94 so it has been on this earth for a while, still runs, has had things done to it, still stock, and seems to never complain when I get on her, well maybe somethings (go faster over 2500 rpm). Good luck on your pick, and just remember you are not a lone.
 

Mr. Wright

Knows some things
Supporting Member
I have been riding almost all my life, and almost 2 years ago I bought my 1st Big Dog, Chopper 2003. I still am a little worried about it, but had the EHC changed right after I got it, as the blinkers started acting up, and was told that was the 1st sign it was going out. I have a mech. that worked at Gateway Big Dog in St. Louis, (still does Big Dogs), so I take it to him, and ask questions about the big. Rode it for about 300 miles one day, listen to everything going on, and feeling good about the bike. After riding with the group, and talking to them, at the BBBQ in Ak. I feel so much better. This group of people on this site, or always good about helping with problems, and what to look into. Going to the meet up in June to pick up some more knowledge, let Shannon take my bike for a ride, and get some more feed back (if that is okay Shannon). My bike's Vin. is 94 so it has been on this earth for a while, still runs, has had things done to it, still stock, and seems to never complain when I get on her, well maybe somethings (go faster over 2500 rpm). Good luck on your pick, and just remember you are not a lone.
:old2:
 

liferider

Looking forward to retirement
I prefer the 03 bikes. These came with Heart ehc system. Controls interchange with Harley Davidson so does a lot of other parts on the bike. If the motor doesn’t have compression releases these motors have been predrilled and it’s easy to install. Of these bikes, the Mastiff and the Chopper are soft tail rides and much easier on your body.
 

HMAN

I just like my Freedom
I've actually thought about that but I would need a step by step instructional guide and a vendor where I could source the parts.
We have Derrick and Donna, BDM, WSW, and lots of parts here. Its the only way to totally know your machine. And remember......parts is parts. If ya can put something together......a bike isnt much different. Enough knowledge here to get the job done.....jmo
 
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I've actually thought about that but I would need a step by step instructional guide and a vendor where I could source the parts.
Oh and I have a pitbull frame and allot of parts for sale, it will cost you more to build one than buying a used chopper but it’s damn fun


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

Nukeranger

Nukeranger
Supporting Member
You need to make one big choice which is Hard Tail or Soft Tail. You need to be in good shape and have a good back for a Hard Tail. And, if you are up to the challenge, then a Hard Tail is a kick in the butt!
 

No H2O

Active Member
Upon initial research, making my own chopper is out of the budget.
After looking over all the choppers, the Big Dog line, RedNek Engineering, Hellbound Steel, I like the PitBull the most.
I think I'll wait for a deal on a PitBull in a color I want to come around that's too good to refuse and I'll jump on it.
It is a superb paint job on that Mastiff though.
 
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