Legendary Denver’s Chopper Knucklehead up for Grabs

Combine timeless style with a bit of history, and you’ve got what could possibly be the perfect chopper!

One could easily argue that no style more effectively represents the quintessential Harley than the venerable chopper. After all, the chopper movement completely changed the game, effectively giving the brand a rebellious image that still resonates today. With unmistakable minimalistic styling and unmatched attitude, nothing grabs attention or portrays a hardcore image more effectively than a chopper.

So when an example of the style that’s also historically significant hits the auction block, we have to take notice. And they don’t come with much more status than this gorgeous yellow chopper, built by the iconic Denver Mullins himself. If for some reason you don’t recognize the name, Mullins operated one of the very first commercial chopper shops in the U.S. back in 1967. It didn’t hurt that Denver’s Choppers set up shop amid the rich bike culture of San Bernardino, California, either.

Mullins became famous for his stretched-out, long-forked, “Swedish style” builds. From the get-go, they captured the fascination of the entire nation. And in the process, became a fixture in most every notable custom motorcycle publication. And like the rest of his builds, this 1947 Harley EL Knucklehead-based chopper has simple but perfect proportions.

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.