Bicycle chopper: features and types

There are a large number of bike models. However, only a few of them are really good in practical terms, and are not the fruits of the tricks of marketers. Chopper is just such a product, and therefore it needs to be given special attention.

The first bike, similar to a modern chopper, was introduced back in 1936. It was then that Schwinn, whose name speaks a lot to people today, first introduced a new class of bikes called "cruisers." Then they immediately appreciated the features of this transport, which was very different from the usual bicycles of the interbellum era. At a time when other companies tried to maximize the ride speed of their products, Schwinn designers emphasized convenience for walking. Actually the choppers in the form that is familiar to our contemporaries appeared later - in the USA in the 1950s.

When Schwinn specialists saw this technique, they instantly appreciated what people really needed to drive. The company's management reacted coolly to the new development, however, in 1963 it nevertheless entered the market. And the result exceeded even the wildest expectations of enthusiasts.

In less than a month, thousands of people have already acquired choppers. But despite the expansion of production, ordinary cyclists continued their experiments. Fans of tuning created associations, clubs, where they shared their best practices and advised how to overcome failures. Modern choppers are more like a motorcycle than a regular bike. In recent years, they are increasingly equipped with additional accessories.

The bike chopper differs from the classic-style bicycles in the modified geometry of the frame. Even lay people immediately notice the low seat, the low ride height associated with it. The most experienced cyclists, first replanting on a chopper, note on it a completely different than usual perception of the road, passers-by and other bike owners. You need to get used to it gradually. Features of the chopper device cause some complexity in controlling it.

The carriage and saddle are positioned so that pedaling is possible with almost completely relaxed legs. Landing in the saddle is comfortable, you can lean back and stretch your legs. Because chopper is considered a good choice for long and long trips.

Experienced cyclists immediately note that chopper is heavier than simple city or mountain transport. But he has much better reel. If you wish, you can always redo the bike, change the concept of tuning. A high steering wheel allows you to place rear-view mirrors so that driving on city roads and busy intercity routes was as safe as possible. Now you can see than a chopper is better or worse than a "simple" bike.

Connoisseurs note the following advantages of a chopper:

• ride comfort;
• undoubted external originality;
• low vibration even when moving on rough or poorly equipped roads;
• ease of changing appearance;
• increased security;
• compliance of the design with the anatomical features of man

Of the minuses, the most important are:

• the impossibility of rapid acceleration;
• difficulty in the passage of climbs and steep places;
• lack of maneuverability.

Primarily, bike chopper is divided into two-wheeled and three-wheeled types. Three-wheeled versions are in demand mainly by children and adolescents. Only occasionally can you see an adult on such a bike. In this case, a basket for transporting various things is usually mounted above the rear wheel.

Most choppers drive at the same speed, however, you can fix things with disc brakes or planetary bushings. In this case, it is possible to obtain up to 14 different speeds. Chopper can be not only a classic foot, but also an electric bike. A product with an electric motor is preferably due to:

• minimal fatigue when driving;
• affordability (even taking into account the cost of charging the battery);
• lack of smells;
• comparative silence when driving (in relation to gasoline counterparts);
• ease and simplicity of self-installation (do not compare with the same ICE).

The company can offer good and very promising chopper models. Bomber. They can even have a different color. Pleasant results give uniformly black Bro, Roy. You can change their appearance with your own hands. And among fans of ready-made original models, many prefer the chopper Charger

But of particular importance is the model Alfabike Smart 5 speed. This chopper has a special aluminum alloy frame. A 0.122 m cartridge is used as a carriage. The standard sleeve is designed for 5 speeds. As an alternative, products from Megavel. This company supplies time-tested and, moreover, very modern products.

Rather, in this online store you can officially buy choppers from the manufacturer Micargi Bicycles. The Bronco model has 3 speeds by default. The total mass of the bike is 25 kg, and the largest transported mass is 120 kg. The product is assembled manually in full compliance with the regulations. Reflectors and a chain are standard.

Good results on the road. Micargi Seattle FatBob. This bike has a mass of 27 kg. In the standard version, it transfers 120 kg, and when using the reinforced seat up to 140 kg. The length measured at the edges of the wheels is 2.2 m.Designers have chosen a particularly durable steel frame. Standard equipment includes a high steering wheel and rear disc-type brake.

Fans of electric choppers should pay attention to Micargi FatBob One. The mass of the bike is from 38 kg. It is equipped with a sturdy steel frame. The steering column is made on the basis of industrial bearings. The chain and pedals are made of aluminum. There are several modes:

• economical (for a leisurely trip through the park);
• normal (at cruising speed);
• sports (usually used for a short time for training).

As always, attention should be paid to reviews of a particular model. They are usually more adequate than simple descriptions by producers or even journalists of specialized publications. But no less important point is a direct "acquaintance" with the bike. It is necessary to look at its appearance, and the convenience of landing. If possible, make a couple of circles, appreciate the proposed bike.

The steel frame is very durable, however, it also makes the design heavier. Aluminum makes it easy to chopper. Therefore, the movement will occur more maneuverably and quickly. However, the aluminum construction will have to pay more.

The same Kevlar will wear out quickly if the bike user rides on a dirt road. As for the wheels, you need to choose products with aluminum spokes. When you plan to ride only on a good hard surface, you need to give preference to products with a narrow rim without a pronounced relief. Then it will be possible to race faster. 28-inch wheels overcome ladders and similar obstacles much better than 26-inch wheels.

In the next video, a Cruiser Chopper bike ride awaits you.