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First ever chopper build

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Old Nov 5, 2025 | 10:31 AM
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Default First ever chopper build

Howdy forum gurus Just started my first custom build ever. Been through some stock builds and want to take a step up and do my own thing - Definitely going to need some guidance from the smart people on the forum. Starting with a sweet single down tube frame with a not crazy rake. The seller also has a 2-over front fork and triple tree. The frame bottom will be level with a 19" front wheel.
Single front down tube. Set up for Shovel Head
Single front down tube. Set up for Shovel Head

Got lucky finding that. It is set up for a shovel head and Shovel head will be the motor with 4-speed tranny.
My vision is a super clean build. As little extraneous **** as possible. Only what I need to pass inspection in MA. I believe no front brake switch or directionals are required. Thinking maybe belt drive primary. I want to keep the electric start so probably can't keep the cover off or maybe have to cut off the part with the shaft receiver and just install that. Many ways to go. Kind of excited to see how it turns out...
 
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Old Nov 5, 2025 | 10:58 AM
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I see many delivery trucks in your future
 
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Old Nov 7, 2025 | 09:55 AM
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It's gunna be Fun
 
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Old Nov 7, 2025 | 10:19 AM
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Good luck man!!
 
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Old Nov 17, 2025 | 04:37 PM
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Just sent the check for the frame. Project officially underway
Can't wait to see what this will look like. My first motor powered two wheeler was a mini bike. Purple chopper. sissy bar and all.
Paid $100 for it. Mowed lawns for a long time to get it. Truly some of the best times...
After the holidays will be heading south to FL to pick it up. Nice little winter vacation and the only bike related thing my wife will do with me.
Not judging my wife - she is just worried I'll get killed riding. If she was hang-gliding I might feel the same. Can't live in fear.
Shovel head is the motor of choice. Pan shovel preferred. Would love to get a ratchet top 4-speed... $$$$
 
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Old Nov 18, 2025 | 12:13 PM
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Originally Posted by papagotwheels
Shovel head is the motor of choice. .. $$$$
One seller has 2 1978s for sale on C-list Fort Wayne Indiana
$3750 & $2500
 
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Old Nov 18, 2025 | 01:59 PM
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subscribed.

 
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Old Nov 20, 2025 | 08:33 AM
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DELETED
 

Last edited by eighteight; Nov 20, 2025 at 10:10 AM.
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Old Nov 20, 2025 | 09:57 AM
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88 - Thanks for the reference to those shovel heads. Starting to get an idea of how much this is going to cost..
I found bag rails at a swap meet. All set there.. Those are different than mine. Top rail is straight and rear has other parts that connect the left and right rails.
Look to be in nice condition, though.
 
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Old Nov 20, 2025 | 10:03 AM
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