There are a plethora of motorcycles available in the market that belongs to a number of categories like cruisers, adventure bikes, sports bikes, enduros, and so on. Similarly, the world of custom-built motorcycles is vast. There’s no limitation or restraint (except legal ones) here and one can explore its imagination. Out of many genres of custom motorcycles, the High Neck or Chopper is quite an odd one. It’s not something that would be liked by everyone, but it sure does turn many heads. And one such head-turner has been recently built by MB Cycles.
MB Cycles is based out in Germany and deals in custom motorcycles. One fine day, one of its regular customers by the name of Andy, came to collect the custom bike that he ordered a while ago. While all the formalities were in process, Andy thought of getting another custom bike and shared his needs with MB Cycles. The conversation went on for quite some time. Andy was explained about the different styles of custom bikes that can be built. In the end, he decided to go ahead with a High Neck Hardtail Chopper.
The Chopper style of custom motorcycle is, perhaps, the most extreme of all custom genres present. It is instantly recognizable from a distance because of its elongated front ends, high raised handlebar, increased rake angle, and hardtail frames. They’re look a bit difficult to ride but seem to be worth the all fuss.
It took MB Cycles three months to build Andy’s custom motorcycle, and boy, it looks gorgeous. A lot of custom parts and many hours of work made it possible. The Rev Tech engine is of around 1600cc, V-twin, with a power output of 68 hp which is delivered to the rear wheel via a belt drive. The engine is mated to Rev Tech’s 5-speed gearbox. It’s got a Mikuni HSR 42 carb along with a conical K&N air filter for increased performance. The engine is done all in chrome to match the awesome silver metallic and candy red color scheme, whose polishing is done by DOT Mechler, Germany, and the powder coating performed by Metal Skin Works, and the entire thing has been painted by Chikos Pinstriping.
The exhaust has been handmade by MB Cycles. It features an electrical sound management system. Two thick black pipes come out from that massive V-twin and merge into the muffler. The overall appearance of this unit is just spot on.
The chassis on this one is a Santee Single Down Tube Hardtail piece. It gives a sufficient amount of strength, rigidity, and flexibility to the bike. The rake has been set at an angle of 63 degrees, which gives it the traditional chopper look. Also, the long Zodiac NL, USD Forks at the front enhances the look.
The size of the front wheel is 3.00 x 21 DNA 40 Spoke, and the rear measures at 7×17 TTS Stainless 40 Spoke. The rubbers on these come from Metzeler and are of sizes 130/ 60B 21 and 210/ 50 17 respectively. The braking duties are given to a 4-pot caliper for the front disc brake, and the rear one is a Pulley Brake System.
Various other custom parts of this High Neck Hardtail Chopper include – headlight which is a replica of that of the V Rod’s but comes with integrated turn signals, BMW replica race bar handlebar, seat from Pan from Easyriders Japan, footpegs from Biltwell Mushman, Speedometer by Motogadget Mini, levers are from Kustom Tech, Italy, license bracket is handmade by MB Cycles, etc.
Over the course of 3 months, MB Cycles gave everything it had to make Andy’s High Neck Hardtail Chopper very special. Building any custom motorcycle isn’t an easy task, and when it comes to the Choppers, things are that much more sophisticated and complex. Andy was pretty happy to see his silver-red chopper in flesh. He was so mesmerized by MB Cycles’ work that he couldn’t resist his desire to get another custom bike. This time he ordered the MB Buell Hardtail Racer.
Photo credits: Melissa Rademacher AKA Riders Eyes
