Choppers are heavy, oversized motorcycles with a variety of chrome-plated components. Beginners often find it difficult to find a large assortment of all kinds of motorcycle equipment and cannot decide which chopper to choose, so it is worth considering the features of some models.
Signs of a regular chopper:
- chrome parts in large quantities;
- stepped saddle;
- trunks on the sides;
- soft suspension;
- teardrop-shaped gas tank;
- forward-mounted footrests;
- narrow front wheel with large diameter;
- The rear wheel is smaller in diameter and wide.
Such motorcycles are purchased by lovers of comfortable riding on highways outside the city. In the metropolis, bikes of this type are a bit cramped due to their large dimensions.
Characteristics taken into account when choosing a chopper
What should a novice motorcyclist consider when choosing his first bike? Consider the motorcycle from several parameters at once, such as quality, reliability, manufacturability and others.
Manufacturer
Classic models are produced by the American motorcycle company Harley Davidson, a leader and trendsetter in the chopper segment. Japanese manufacturers Yamaha, Honda and others compete with it. Motorcycle companies from the Land of the Rising Sun pay attention to the latest technologies, making their products reliable, durable, and safe.
Of course, it is better to choose a well-known manufacturer that has proven itself in this market segment.
Engine displacement
Choppers are very profitable in terms of efficiency and are also attractive in price. Models with a large engine capacity, 750–1100 cc, are often chosen.
The cheapest and most economical low-capacity motorcycles, this is the best option for beginners. If your financial capabilities are small, it is recommended to purchase a 400cc class motorcycle.
Please note: the more powerful the chopper, the larger its dimensions and, accordingly, its weight.
engine's type
The most popular are V-shaped 2-cylinder engines with liquid cooling and two overhead camshafts. To drive the rear wheel, the best option is a universal joint. Belt and chain drives are less preferred.
Honda Shadow
Honda originally developed the Shadow series of motorcycles for the American cruiser market in the early 1980s. Because the Shadow needed to fit seamlessly into the market, Honda designed the bike with the laid-back, relaxed and comfortable demeanor synonymous with vintage American cruisers of the 1950s.
Given that the Shadow is the Rebel's big brother, it gained popularity among fans who craved the American cruiser design but also disliked the smaller pocket versions. As a result, Honda has introduced many versions of the Shadow over the years. These models include: Shadow Aero, Shadow ACE Tourer, Shadow Spirit, Shadow Saber, Shadow VLX, Black Widow, Shadow Slasher and Shadow Phantom.
Inspection of a used chopper
Choppers are usually in good demand on the market. How to choose a good motorcycle that won’t force you to immediately spend a lot of money on restoring it? When purchasing, be sure to check the condition of the motorcycle, especially if you are purchasing used motorcycles:
- gearbox quality;
- oil condition;
- chain wear;
- compression (should be 0.8–1 MPa);
- no rust on the gas tank;
- no corrosion on the fork;
- carry out a test drive: accelerate the chopper to 100 km/h to check the power system - the engine should run without interruptions, if you hear them - the system is dirty;
- check the wear of the bearings; to do this, you need to hang the rear wheel, then swing the pendulum to the sides - there should be no knocking.
Motorcycles "IZH"
The production of the IZH motorcycle, famous throughout Russia, was launched 90 years ago. Motorcycles got their name - IZH - thanks to the Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant, from whose assembly lines the vehicles rolled off. But the motorcycles received their final name only 12 years after the start of production, when it became widespread.
The first batches of this two-wheeled vehicle had the same technical equipment: a stamped frame, two cylinders and a strong muffler. Motorcycles with the same configuration were produced for several more years. Next came a modern modification.
However, in 2008, the IZH motorcycle manufacturer ceased to exist. The enterprise became unprofitable. Now IZH motorcycles are not produced, and you can only buy them in used condition or untouched, but with a production year before 2009.
The most popular motorcycles today are the following models:
IZh "Planet-5"
"Planet-5" is a Russian two-wheeled all-terrain vehicle, a road motorcycle designed for driving on roads of any surface.
Technical characteristics of IZH Planeta-5:
- type – two-stroke;
- number of cylinders – 1;
- power supply system – carburetor;
- Gearbox – manual 4-speed;
- gasoline consumption on the highway - 5 l/100 km;
- fuel tank volume – 18 liters;
- dimensions – 2200×810×1200 mm (length, width, height);
- the maximum possible speed is 120 km/h.
The year of production began: 1989. Initially, part of the technical equipment of Planet-5 was intended for another equally promising model, IZH-Orion. For example, a permanent magnet generator is started by a contactless ignition system. The engine is equipped with a separate lubrication system pump, which means that the mixture of gasoline and oil in the motorcycle’s power system is completely eliminated.
"IZH Planeta-5" is allowed for operation together with a side trailer, but if there is a cast front wheel, then it is not allowed.
An updated model of this motorcycle was released in the 2000s. The model turned out to be a two-stroke, but with an engine capacity of 350 cc. see. The motorcycle also has electronic contactless ignition and an air intake from under the saddle. The new product was proudly called an SUV.
Now you can only buy a used motorcycle, since they stopped producing this model back in 2007. For example, for a new (2004) or an old motorcycle that has been thoroughly updated, or an old one without mileage (time capsule) they ask for 50-85 thousand rubles; for an old IZH with mileage it costs 15-25 thousand rubles.
IZH "Jupiter-5"
The IZH Jupiter-5 motorcycle is a middle-class motorcycle, the production of which began since the times of the Union, namely in 1985. Just like Planet-5, it is designed to overcome roads with any surface in a lightweight or loaded state. Operation is possible together with a cradle trailer.
The motorcycle was and remains in demand among buyers due to many advantages:
- 2 cylinders;
- powerful engine;
- quick start without delay;
- parts and repairs will be inexpensive;
- low cost.
The device also has disadvantages, and significant ones:
- high gasoline consumption;
- the motorcycle requires frequent repairs;
- the front fork is weak.
2 cylinders in Jupiter-5 mean more power than in the same Planet-5. Another advantage is that the installation of the transport is easier, since there is no return of the leg during installation.
Technical characteristics of IZH Jupiter-5:
- dimensions – 2170x810x1170 mm (length, width, height);
- engine capacity – 347 cubic meters. cm;
- power – 25 l. With.;
- combined engine lubrication system;
- fuel consumption - 5.9 l;
- maximum acceleration speed – 125 km/h;
- 4-speed manual transmission.
The modern models produced are no different in appearance from their Soviet predecessors. Modernization did not affect this side.
The average cost is 55 thousand rubles, but you can buy it for much less money, depending on the condition of the motor vehicle.
IZh "Planet-7"
Middle class motorcycle of the fifth series of modernization. For a long time, “Planet-7” competed in demand with its “fifth” brother, but compared to its predecessor, “Seven” has several updates:
- a more comfortable saddle with a pencil case for small items;
- narrowed fuel tank;
- easy landing;
- new optics and dashboard.
Specifications:
- 4-stroke single-cylinder engine;
- volume – 250 cubic meters;
- power – 20 l. With.;
- Manual transmission with 5 modes;
- dimensions – 2200×800×1300 mm;
- maximum speed – 120 km/h.
IZh "Planet-7" costs an average of 60,000 rubles.
Cargo motorcycle IZH 6.920-03
The cargo "IZH" is designed for transporting various types of heavy loads (up to 320 kg). The boarding area is designed for 1 passenger. Produced on the basis of Jupiter-5. The cargo motorcycle consists of two parts: the front one is the Jupiter-5 motorcycle, the rear one is a two-wheeled trailer (area - 1.4 sq. m). By firmly adhering to each other, both parts form a three-wheeled vehicle.
The technical features are as follows:
- liquid cooling system;
- 2-speed gearbox with reverse gear and limited differential;
- independent rear wheel suspension.
Specifications:
- dimensions – 2975×1550×1200 mm;
- gas tank volume – 18 liters;
- engine capacity – 347.4 cubic meters;
- engine type – two-stroke cylinder.
The cost of such a motorcycle with a body reaches 110-160 thousand rubles.
All-terrain vehicle "SAMSON" (IZH 6.921-010)
Where even an SUV cannot pass, the Samson all-terrain vehicle, created on the basis of the IZH Jupiter-5, can pass without any problems. Its unusual 3 wheels make it invulnerable to heavy mud and swampy terrain, and thanks to its power, it is capable of carrying not only passengers and cargo, but also a heavy trailer.
Characteristics of "Samson":
- dimensions – 3550×2260×1580 mm;
- cylinders – 2;
- engine capacity – 347.6 cubic meters;
- total weight – 470 kg;
- slow-moving vehicle speed – 40 km/h;
- fuel consumption per 100 km – 9 liters.
The appearance reveals that the all-terrain vehicle is a representative of the IZH family. Its gas tank, side closure and trunk are red. On their surface are the inscriptions “IZH” and “Jupiter-5”.
The cost of a used all-terrain vehicle from 2007 ranges around 100 thousand rubles.
"PS-650 ROTAX"
“IZH PS-650 Rotax” is a direct descendant of “Planet-Sport”. They are united not only by the place of production, but also by the fact that elements of more successful motorcycles are involved in the assembly. These details are harmoniously combined with the classic one-piece “Izhevsk” frame and other “native” elements.
The PS-650 ROTAX has never been in mass production. There are only a few copies and all of them are either participants in motorcycle exhibitions or exhibits in private collections. This is a completely different model than the classic IZhi, which has the right to compete with other foreign-made motorcycles.
Technical characteristics of PS-650 ROTAX:
- number of cylinders – 1;
- number of measures – 4;
- engine capacity – 652 cc. cm;
- power – 47 l. With.;
- starting via electric starter;
- Fuel tank volume – 10 liters.
This sporty IZH differs from its counterparts even in its external equipment. The basis for its creation was the following concept: arrange cheap parts on the frame so that they create a protective frame, protecting the more expensive parts located inside. The outer casing is made of durable materials - steel, aluminum and other strong alloys.
Can only be purchased from collectors. Cost – 300-400 thousand rubles.
IZ Springbok
This IZH was put into production in 1997 on the basis of the IZH-M16 enduro motorcycle, which had been discontinued by that time. The Springbok is dual-purpose - on and off-road.
The new model has many differences:
- front fork – Japanese;
- rear shock absorbers with pumping;
- front brake – disc;
- the exhaust pipe flows smoothly into the muffler.
Specifications:
- dimensions – 2.2×0.81×1.3 m;
- weight – 160 kg;
- maximum load – 170 kg;
- 4-stroke single-cylinder engine;
- engine capacity – 249 cubic meters. cm.
The plant produced about 200 of these motorcycles. The cost of Springbok ranges from 50 to 70 thousand rubles.
IZ Saigak
The domestic “Saiga” was created on the basis of “Planet-7”. He retained the same external features, acquiring only minor changes, which include:
- the front frame has become lower;
- the angle of the steering fork has been changed;
- Chinese engine;
- the muffler received a chrome finish;
- The seat has become a little longer, and higher quality material has been used for its manufacture.
Engine power – 249 cubic meters. The engine itself is a cylinder with 4 strokes and 4 valves. Economical fuel consumption: only 3.5 liters per 100 km. The maximum acceleration speed is 120 km/h.
Rumor has it that someone managed to buy IZH Saiga, but we were unable to find someone who would sell it.
Motorcycle "Junker" (IZH 6.113-020-5)
The domestic model of the Junker motorcycle is a special development of Russian engineers. Its peculiarity is that the Junker is not similar to the IZH, but only externally - technically it is equipped identically.
The vehicle vaguely resembles a brutal American chopper: a high arched steering wheel, a low-slung seat, a small headlight, a teardrop-shaped tank, a forward fork, and modified frame geometry. The rear passenger seat is equipped with a backrest to which a lamp is attached.
Specifications:
- dimensions – 2400×900×1520 mm;
- ground clearance - 175 mm;
- number of cylinders – 2;
- engine capacity – 347 cubic meters. cm;
- power – 24 l. With.;
- Manual transmission – 4-speed.
The cost of "Junker" is from 20 to 120 thousand rubles, depending on the condition and upgrade. On average, they ask for 50-70 thousand rubles for a model.
Teenage motorcycle "Cornet" (IZH 2.673)
“Cornet” is something between a moped and a motorcycle. Lightweight and maneuverable on the road, you don’t need to get a license to drive it, which is convenient for teenagers. You shouldn’t expect anything unusual from this vehicle: it embodies all the characteristics of a small two-wheeled motorcycle.
The characteristics are:
- dimensions – 194×82×128 cm;
- ground clearance – 20 cm;
- total weight – 90 kg;
- loading capacity – up to 170 kg;
- consumption per 100 km – 3 liters;
- maximum speed – 50 km/h;
- number of cylinders – 1;
- number of cycles – 2;
- engine capacity – 50 cubic meters.
The Kornet motorcycle is perfect for covering short distances, and fuel consumption will not hurt your pocket. The cost of the motorcycle is low - only 20,000 rubles.
Optimal models for beginners
Yamaha
Virago
The chopper with a 400 cc air-cooled V-twin engine, cardan and 2 carburetors is very simple in design and easy to control due to its low weight. This is also facilitated by a low center of gravity, a relatively narrow rear wheel, and a short wheelbase. A reserve tank under the saddle helps lower the center of gravity.
XVS 400 Drag Star
Large 400cc chopper, recommended for tall motorcyclists. Classic components: V-twin, cardan drive, air cooling, 2 carburetors. There is a classic version and a custom one.
Suzuki
Savage
Single-cylinder, air-cooled, the bike is flexible and light in weight. The 400 cc model is chain driven, the 600 cc model is belt driven.
VS400 Intruder
Another popular model from the Japanese manufacturer Suzuki. The model combines good technical characteristics with an inexpensive price. Cardan drive, carburetor power, liquid-cooled M-twin - these are the components of this high-spirited, dynamic bike. A distinctive feature is the high center of gravity for this species.
Honda
Steed
The legendary motorcycle from Honda is phenomenally reliable combined with an affordable price. Engine 2-cylinder, liquid cooling, chain drive. The 400cc version has a 5-speed gearbox, while the 600cc version has a 4-speed gearbox. The advantages of the bike are excellent handling and light weight.
Rebel CMX 250
Lightweight, modest-sized chopper, medium power, but highly reliable. A great option for a female driver.
Shadow 400
In terms of technical characteristics, the motorcycle is close to the Steed model. Equipped with liquid cooling engine, carburetor system, chain. A highly reliable option for beginners and more.
Kawasaki
VN 400 Vulcan
A Japanese 400cc motorcycle will be a good friend for a novice biker. A special feature is its large size, suitable for tall owners.
ZL 400 Eliminator
A hybrid of a sportbike and a chopper with an in-line 4-cylinder engine, liquid cooling, and chain drive. 50 l. With. makes the powerful Eliminator a leader in the 400cc class. To drive such a bike, it is better to have experience.
EN 400
A nimble, maneuverable bike, pleasantly easy to control, with traditional components.
Yamaha Road Star Warrior 1700
The Road Star Warrior is undoubtedly one of the most memorable cruisers Yamaha produced between 2002 and 2007. Although Yamaha was best known for its dominance in Supersports and liter-class machines, their expertise in these aspects was the ideal prerequisite for creating an exceptional cruiser.
The Warrior 1700 featured one of the finest and most sophisticated chassis ever seen, making it one of the most sought after performance cruisers of its time. In addition, the bike offered street aggression, classic design elements, a comfortable riding position, wide handlebars, forward-facing pegs and incredible reliability. And if it wasn't obvious, the "1700" on its badge comes from the powerful 1670cc V-twin engine. cm, capable of developing an impressive 84.3 hp. and 135 Nm of torque.
Top 10 best choppers
The rating was compiled by determining the best choppers based on the factors of functionality, cost, and popularity.
Vagabond chopper
The remarkable design and streamlined shape of the Vagabond made it popular among motorcyclists, which was also facilitated by the price of 6.5 thousand dollars, which buyers of average solvency can afford.
Harley Davidson V Rod Muscle
Harley Davidson motorcycles are magnificent creations, all stylish, durable, prestigious. The Model V Rod Muscle with a 1250cc engine and 5-speed gearbox is a shining example of this brand. With a body made of steel and aluminum, it is easy to control and very maneuverable when turning. The cost of 1.5 million rubles is justified by the quality of the bike.
Devil's advocate chopper
Devil's advocate is not very popular, but it is very practical, stylish, cheap, and a good option for the budget-conscious buyer. A 6-speed gearbox and wide tires are the design features of the bike.
Anti-Venom
The chopper has an old-fashioned design that is attractive with its stylishness. It features an old assembly method, wheel rims, and a gas tank. Excellent work by Paul Teutul, Jr.
Yamaha Raider S
A motorcycle that attracts anyone with its beautiful 1854 cc engine, which instantly accelerates in any gear. A sophisticated chassis and monoshock are combined with a large fork offset and a 21-inch thin front wheel. The large saddle and soft suspension make the ride comfortable, and the brakes are effective. The bike weighs about 700 pounds and costs approximately $18,000.
Yamaha Stryker
Another Yamaha chopper ranks fifth in the ranking of the best in its class. Mechanics and electronics work amazingly well, the 1304 cc engine allows you to reach high speeds, and the bike has a cool design.
Honda Gold Wing F6B
Honda's mechanics have created a superbly designed bike, equipped with electronics, fast and light.
Yamaha Roadster BMS
A very expensive model - half a million dollars, but worth all the money spent on it. The bike's creator, Sam Nehme, plated it in gold, creating a luxurious style.
Honda Fury ABS
Brilliant polishing and LED headlights immediately attract attention to the Honda chopper. A comfortable seat, a 5-speed gearbox, and a 1312 cc engine put this model in second place in terms of speed, power and comfort.
Harley's Dyna Wide Glide
The undisputed leader among choppers is the Dyna Wide Glide from Harley, recognized as the best model of the century. The most powerful engine, excellent steering wheel, 6-speed gearbox develop simply enormous speed, and the bike is very obedient when cornering.
Which chopper to choose: expensive or economical, exclusive or traditional, more powerful or very simple and reliable - it’s up to you to decide. What would you prefer: the latest top model or a popular, but possibly used product? The main thing is that your bike serves you well, is a reliable friend, an assistant in different life situations.
Honda Fury
Honda surprised many motorcycle fans when it introduced the Fury in 2009. The Fury was Honda's first chopper, and it's always been great. The distinctive body, frame and components allowed Honda to achieve its goal of transforming the chopper from a niche market into an affordable mass-produced product.
Quite rightly, Honda hit the nail on the head with this bike. The engineers have done a great job with the engine cooling, as the hoses and radiator are invisible and work flawlessly. What some people don't know is that the Honda Fury was the first chopper with anti-lock brakes. The Fury is so impressive that it has managed to remain unchanged since its debut, making it the last 1300cc cruiser to be produced. see in the Honda line.
MINI Cooper R56
MINI Cooper R56 – photo 1
MINI Cooper R56 – photo 2
MINI Cooper R56 – photo 3
MINI Cooper R56 – photo 4
Photo gallery
The selection includes the Ural Voyage, some of the owners made their own changes, while others chose to leave everything as it was in order to preserve it in its true form. Let's see what the models that have survived to this day look like.
