Thinkin Custom

robertpokerplayer · Posted: March 23, 2005, 9:59 pm Post subject: Thinkin Custom

I'm thinking about buliding a custom "chopper." Here's what I'm thinking. Start with a panhead, add a rigid frame (maybe change the rake a little), solo seat (have a p-pad just in case), springer forks, sucide shift, just enough lights to make it legal, and (all the new school guys skip this) a 130 rear tire. Anyone have an old panhead just sitting around? Think of anything I missed?

Jack · Full Member Joined: Mar 15, 2005 Posts: 411

Why not use the XS motor Question

It would be a whole lot more economical to use the XS as the starting point of your chopper... There are some beautiful choppers based on the XS and most are a work of art with lines that are timeless to the eye........Jack

robertpokerplayer · Posted: March 23, 2005, 11:57 pm Post subject: Re: Thinkin Custom

It is partly because I am trying for an authentic look of a '50's style chopper/bober and because I have always liked the looks of the old panheads. Don't get me wrong, I love my 650 and am thinking of doing something similar but I also want this panhead chopper. Just trying to put some feelers out in finding an used motor.

650rider · WebMaster Joined: Feb 09, 2005 Posts: 431

What's the cost of a panhead motor anyway?

robertpokerplayer · Posted: March 24, 2005, 12:10 am Post subject: Re: Thinkin Custom

Brand spankin new one from S&S is between $7,000 and $9,000. They make them up to 103 ci. One other thought I had was to just build one, have never built a motor before might be fun.

650rider · WebMaster Joined: Feb 09, 2005 Posts: 431

Large project if you get started on it be sure to post some photos.

mo650chopper · Posted: March 29, 2005, 7:02 am Post subject: Re: Thinkin Custom

My last bike was a 60 Pan, was an awesome bike. I've been a Harley man
for over 20 years, 77 Sporty, 1987 Heritage Softail with a 98" stroker. My
Pan was a hardtail when I first got it, then a trike and finally a swingarm. All
but my sportster had the foot clutch / hand shift. My XS will be a jockey shift
before I'm done. Myself I've gave up the HD's because the cost for stuff is
freakin ridiculous! I think personally you can make a good looking custom
out of the XS and have plenty of beer / fun money left. Don't get me wrong
if I win the lottery or I some how become wealthy I'll build another Big Inch
HD. But until then I'm now an XS650 man.

What Happened to 650rider.com?

Yamaha xs650