Orange County Choppers [Archive] - ST-Owners.com Forums

georgeorge

04-21-2005, 07:20 AM

I watch the show all the time. Mikey is the draw. He's entertaining in weird sort of way. Anyone I've ever waved at on the road riding a custom chopper looks at me like their better than me and don't wave back, But hey, they've spent 3 - 6 times what I did so they bought the right not to have to wave at lowlife Jap bike riders like be. But the show is entertaining. It beats watching the Lifetime Channel my wife puts on all the time.

by the way the show's actually called "American Chopper" if anyone looking for it.

Brian :03biker:

Mellow

04-21-2005, 07:29 AM

Brian, thanks for the correction.... "No Expresso For You!"

sherob

04-21-2005, 07:42 AM

Kennedy

04-21-2005, 08:15 AM

Watched it a couple times and all though it was entertaining for a few times just got tired of the same old same old. Think most of there bikes have no practical use, over priced and put together by a bunch of back yard mechanics that don't really seem to have much skills. Frame from one shelf, few fenders from another, job out the wheels and buy an engine. And then things don't ever seem to go together well for them. Think the only thing I can give them credit for is the concepts that they come up with, well if they actually do that.

jackpine savage

04-21-2005, 08:37 AM

I thought it was great when they had trouble getting the front end of Jay Leno's bike to fit the frame. Big Pauly said, "I've got an idear!" He then grabbed a BFH and started pounding on the front end to get it to fit together.
David

rob.uk

04-21-2005, 10:58 AM

The Teutle (Paul Snr and Paul Jnr) soap opera sure is fun. Spend more time on film irritating the hell out of each other than they do building custom choppers.

AZST

04-21-2005, 10:59 AM

Compelling TV.

The family stuff is captivating and sometimes more interesting than those ridiculous high $$$$ corporate/tribute show pieces that they create. Acutally, I think the best bike to ever come out of that shop was the Cody bike. By OCC standards it was a simple build and sometimes less is more. Amazing looking bike.

Paul Sr is nuts. They should call it OOC (out of control)....like watching a train wreck.

My .02

--Bryan
04ST1300A
STOC#5197
:04biker:

Mellow

04-21-2005, 11:07 AM

I can't understand why he hasn't had a heart attack, he's got to have high blood pressure...

AgSTreak

04-21-2005, 11:40 AM

I'd rather be riding. I've tried watching. Dopey show, dopey people and unridable two wheelers. I can't watch so-called reality shows either.

STCPO

04-21-2005, 11:48 AM

I'll watch it if I'm channel surfing and it happens to be on. I personally would never own one, but I am always impressed with anyone who can fabricate machinery like they do sometimes.

While speaking of OCC, there is a project underway within the Navy Chief community to commission a "Chief Bike" through OCC. Fund raising is going
on now. I'd be interested in seeing the final design of that one.

Navy Chief Bike Project (http://www.navychief.com/chiefbike.html)

Pete

Stermp66

04-21-2005, 11:51 AM

I love the way they turn their heads and just start welding,,, yeah thats really smart lets teach all those impressionable kids out there how to NOT weld safely. There shop is not far from me let me tell you what those bikes look really good,,, when they are finished and polished up. Now I dont feel they are a safe ride by no means,, and the amount of money they get for them WOW!!! I agree with whoever said they liked the biker build off that is a good show it is interesting to see what they make, then ride to the voting place that is cool. I get sick of all the drama they put on at OCC during taping. But it pays the bills and then some!!! You should see how they have grown since the show came out! :eek:

crinteastwood

04-21-2005, 12:41 PM

OCC should be kissing the butt of the Discovery Channel on a daily basis for all the fame and glory they have now. Yes the bikes are nice looking, but these guys aren't any different from any of the dozens of other custom bike builders throughout the country - just better financed and publicized. The designs are nice, but as mentioned before, true credit is not being given to all the unseen suppliers (wheels, engines, paint, seats etc). The shop must do more than what is being shown in regards to custom bikes but that part of the story is sadly lacking - these guys are not the chopper gods that we are led to believe and their appearances at the bike shows seems to be more of an ego stroking than anything - they wont even give an autograph unless you buy some of their branded items. At least you can stop in and talk one on one with Jesse James at his shop - seems not to have forgotten that it is the people who made him what he is - not some unreal vision of what we are being told about how it really is.
Mick :04biker:
Two Pauls - you are so great! :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

John Anthony

04-21-2005, 11:49 PM

I thing the show is a joke, but it's also a guilty pleasure for my wife and me. The show is way too predictable - junior/senior fights, crash a car or two occassionally, some type of production crisis to deal with, horseplay with Mikey, etc. , etc.

MCN did an editorial on these guys a few months back and ripped 'em for their shoddy workmanship. Gave Jesse James much higher marks. Biker Build Off is more interesting to watch.

Gug

04-22-2005, 05:58 PM

Anything that that opens the public up to motorcycles I am all for. My parents are 77 and 79 respectively and they watch it. They have never owned a motorcycle but they get some kicks out of it.

With gas prices as they are now, I think motorcycles are going to have a big resurgence again like what happened in the 70's during the oil embargo's. I actually hope so, it will make it a bit safer I hope.

Dale_I

04-22-2005, 09:03 PM

The one thing I will say about them, I can appreciate anyone's ability to fabricate. No, they are not my cup of tea, but they do a nice job and take the time to get the smaller details right. I'm not big into cars either, but when Good Guys come to town I will always go to the fairgrounds to check out the rods.

Red Ryder

04-23-2005, 02:40 PM

Wonder how they would modify an ST1300-hmmm-maybe best not to know-I might cry with the results.

lionroyboy

04-23-2005, 04:28 PM

I've watched the show a few times and I'm more impressed with the way the bikes look and some of the finer details put into the bikes than I'm impressed with the whole chopper theme. I'm nowhere near being a mechanic, so I'm pretty impressed with the building aspect of the show. The bickering between Sr. and Jr. gets old pretty quick, but I suppose it makes the show more fascinating and personal. The one interesting thing I've noticed is that, generally, the people I've met who like the show the most are people who never owned a motorcycle, much less rode one! It kind of amuses me and annoys me at the same time when I have someone who knows nothing about riding motorcycles tell me what great bikes they make on OCC! I've never ridden a chopper, so I'm speaking without personal experience. I try not to speak of things I don't have personal knowledge of, but I think some things are pretty obvious! Anyway, I can't imagine how disappointed I would be in motorycling if my only experience with motorycles came from riding a chopper! From what I witnessed on tv, magazines, and a few choppers I've seen in action, choppers must be the worst handling, least stable, and most uncomfortable motorycles on the road! The ergonomics are pretty ridiculous on most of the ones I've seen on OCC and on the street. If I equated the motorycling experience with riding a chopper, I'd probably never ride again. But, they do look "cool" and if you ride to look "cool", then a chopper could be a good way to achieve this goal.

Actionfigurejoe

04-24-2005, 03:30 PM

I watch the show evry week. Never miss it. It's been interesting to watch Paul jr and Vinnie advance their skills. Pretty much what a chopper shop is all about.

kooler2

10-28-2007, 01:59 AM

IT'S A JOKE, bunch of ******s

gazoo

10-28-2007, 05:37 AM

I find the show very entertaining. By the way, on the episode I just watched, they put a massive V-Four in the Intel bike.

Air cooled, basicially two v-twins sharing a crank case, but a V-Four just the same. AND it has more gizmo's than a K1200LT.

I've never been a fan of choppers, but that bike is cool.

Gazoo

Fred D

10-28-2007, 05:58 AM

Pro Wrestling meets Motorcycle...

Highrider

10-28-2007, 09:41 AM

I'll watch the program when I have nothing better to do, I enjoy the technical side more than the silly staged personal drama. It has been interesting watching the operation step into higher levels of technology in their fabricating techniques. The show is a step above " Amercan Hotrod", that show is painful to watch. I came from a background of building race cars, and that show needs a reality check.

LeeWonnacott

10-28-2007, 10:30 AM

Like others that have said the same, I tire of the lack of originality. And I'm frequently peeved that it feeds upon this father-son-sibling love/hate things. One kid is creative and the other's been sucking fumes from the end of a muffler far too . . . and the old man appears to be an old 1 percenter that found out polishing the rough edges can make a million dollars under the right circumstances.

Long story short - reality shows bite. Give me an episode of "Higway Patrol" any time - 10-4 !

STPaulK

10-28-2007, 11:17 AM

LOL, this thread sort of took a two and a half year hiatus and then restarted like it had never been interrupted.

BTW, nothing is different about the show either. Two and a half years later the formula is completely identical but on a different channel. I no longer watch it due to boredom. Maybe if they did something besides 10 foot long choppers for celebrities I'd watch.

egar

10-28-2007, 02:27 PM

I was so inspired by the show that I have customized my ST and included wide whitewall tires, purple neon low-glo under the fairing, a faux ostrich skin seat, tinted windshield and ape hangers and pearlized paint that changes color in the sunlight. The ape hangers were hard to build but I have a buddy who has a machine that can bend metal tubing. I will update my avatar soon so ya'll can see the results.

kinzer1

10-28-2007, 03:00 PM

I’ll watch it sometimes. The bike they built are outrageously expensive and are mostly to look at. You can’t ride them. And of you can, for a short distance only. And who’s even talking about the reliability.

93NJST

10-28-2007, 06:08 PM

Ever since the show everyone thinks they can ride a bike. I see so many folks out there that spend a fortune on a bike and end up crashing it and possibly taking out a few others with them. Some folks are just not meant to ride.
As for the OCC folks, I have my own personal dealings/feelings and will leave it at that. But I would like to see them go on a biker build off.

Cheers,
Adam

M&M Take2

10-28-2007, 06:25 PM

Yeah it's repetitive and Paul Sr. is the (or should be) Poster Boy for what happens with steroid abuse but hey it's good for a laugh! The UK/France trip was a hoot with the Scottish Highlander duels and the visit to the Ace Cafe being highlights! The formula for the show is getting old but aren't we all? JMHO Cheers Marty

93NJST

10-28-2007, 06:44 PM

I think we should be asking all the other bike builders what they think of OCC. Would be interesting to get their opinion.

Cheers,
Adam

WestFLDon

10-28-2007, 08:30 PM

I am SO glad they don't build airplanes. Could you imagine flying in a Paul Teutle "X-wing" choppercraft ? With custom parts from the childlike minds of these men. :rolleyes:

Every time I see one of the clones out on the road I wonder what would happen if there is a breakdown ? :eek:

Of course 40 - 150 thousand dollars buys a choppa dat don't break down.:bow1:

Keep em rollin ... Don

jdpfms

10-28-2007, 09:28 PM

I've watched it a few times... pretty funny. If it brings people to our 2 wheel life, great! Not exactly the type of bike I would ride though...

I like the build off shows a little more... loved Larry's stuff, what a loss when he passed!

Expresso for me? :D

I couldn't or can't imagine spending any money on any of them bikes, but it is still different strokes for different folks I guess. Oh yeah, BTW the correct spelling and pronunciation is espresso but most people say "expresso".

JDP

jasonJonas

10-29-2007, 06:22 AM

i've seen a few shows and, while it's ok entertainment for a few minutes, over all it's one of the lamest shows on tv and, imo, doesn't come close to promoting our sport in a favorable light.

business-wise... it's kinda like phone sex... if someone can get you to spend that kind of money for their services, more power to you.

gregj

10-29-2007, 08:38 AM

I used to enjoy watching their shows. Then I read on other forums on how the shoddy their workmanship is on their regular bikes (in addition to costing waaaay too much $$$$) and how money hungry they are; things like charging big dollars just to bring their Fireman's bike to various shows, benefits, etc. It just turned me off. Havent watched them for a couple of years now. Cant blame them for riding the wave, and cashing in as long as they can. I'm just not going to be a part of it anymore.

Viggo

10-29-2007, 08:44 AM

I quite watching it a long time ago because it became same old, same old fairly quickly. It was entertaining, I just got tired of it.

One thing became pretty clear to me watching these guys do their thing; the lack of engineering is pretty scary. I would never want to ride one of those creations at speed. I value my life too much. Of course, they're made to look at, not really ride.

jasonJonas

10-29-2007, 09:10 AM

Of course, they're made to look at, not really ride.
butt-jewelry defined. :)

Gonzo

10-29-2007, 09:19 AM

I watched a few of the shows quite some time ago. IMHO they make rolling pieces of art. That part is quite fascinating.

That being said, they make poorly engineered, way overpriced, almost unridable machines.

I think the personality interactions are contrived and I for one got tired of it.

Small addition: I kind of liked the Jay Leno bike because it looks like a Brough Superior, and I like old Brit bikes.

gonzo

Brad Felmey

10-29-2007, 04:15 PM

I don't suffer low-IQ experiences gracefully. These guys are just absolute idiots with very few redeeming characteristics. Pass.

gnorts

10-29-2007, 10:31 PM

I watched them for a while, and found it entertaining to a point, but my interest faded. Their product isn't badly engineered, it's non-engineered. Parts out of bins, with the "creative" part limited to the stick-on, weld-on bits that make each one a "unique theme bike."

I haven't watched them in a few years. Anyway, I had my cable disconnected. Haven't watched TV in six months. Don't seem to miss it, what with all these forums to keep up with:cool:

slo~ride

10-29-2007, 10:39 PM

Apperently you havent watched latley, They do build lots of there own frames and with the addition of their 5 axis CNC machine they now do all of their own wheels and much more!!!!!!!

As for nothing going togrther well,,, How would you fair out putting together a pure custom from scratch with no directions.
Try watching it again and have another laugh...

B727AV8R

10-30-2007, 07:50 AM

Watched a few times. Got bored after seeing the same basic overpriced design with a bunch of non practical doo dads on it. What would be an interesting show. Seeing these OCC guys compete in a Biker Build Off with someone in Calif, then ride halfway across the country to meet. Wonder how many times they would break down.

04ST1300TX

10-30-2007, 08:59 AM

I've watched the show a few times and it can be funny. The bikes they build are, for the most part, beautiful. If I had the money, I don't think I would buy one, but they are easy on the eyes.
I actually saw some yuppie scum bag riding the spider man bike in Manitou Springs, CO over labor day weekend. He was riding with some other yuppie scumbag on a green bike... possibly OCC... but I'm not sure. Both bikes were pretty, but way too effin loud and all the guys did is wheel them off the trailer at the hotel, ride them into town to eat and drink beer. Then put them right back on the trailer.

OCC builds the perfect style of bike for the "more money than brains" bike rider.

Rainman

10-30-2007, 09:02 AM

Met them once on the London to Brighton rideout a few years ago, the impression that I got was that they are showmen first, bike builders second and happy to capitalise on the fame and money that the show brings, can't really blame them for that. As regards the bikes, they're as about as useful as a condom machine in the Vatican here in Ireland, with our twisty pot holed strewn roads a hard tailed chopper would rattle itself to death before it got a mile down the road.

LeeWonnacott

10-30-2007, 11:43 AM

As regards the bikes, they're as about as useful as a condom machine in the Vatican.. ..

Oh .. boy, THAT could start an interesting thread. But I guess it's better left for the back of the pub on Saturday night? :beer2:

Gonzo

10-30-2007, 12:22 PM

I'm sure there is a goodly supply of posers who only want to ride (briefly) a piece of art, as image is the only real concern they have.

If that's what floats their boat, fine. They can spend their disposable income in any way they feel.

For me, retirement is approaching and I will spend my meager $$$ otherwise. On my ST, in my first year I spent only $1141.16 on gasoline. For what those folks are willing to spend I can ride for years.

gonzo

Biker George

10-30-2007, 07:48 PM

Imrubicon

10-30-2007, 10:47 PM

gives a new meaning to dysfunctional LOL

gnorts

11-01-2007, 12:40 AM

I watch it occasionally, but agree with the same old/same old characterization.

The best show I ever saw was when they made Billy Joel's bike - he knew exactly what he wanted; insisted on it - and that drove them crazy! Lots of rework...

...and Mikey came up with a piano scooter that was all junk parts and totally "crapulized." (made up word) Funny stuff there.

At the end, they showed Billy Joel's collection of bikes. Impressive. He let the OCC guys choose a ride out of his [true] stable of bikes. They were impressed.

Regards,

-Geo

That's the only OCC episode I've seen recently - caught it one night in a hotel when traveling on business. I was impressed with Billy Joel too - a successful guy who was doin' fine but didn't flaunt it, knew what he wanted and how to get it, a straight-ahead guy.

S2000-Dave

11-01-2007, 12:19 PM

I agree with AgSTreak, the shows a no-show in my house, as is all of those reality crap shows. Except for NINJA-WARRIOR!! HE-ay!

CZman

11-01-2007, 12:49 PM

Love it. It's a great family show. Reminds me of my Old Man when he built protoype Jawa CZs, threw tools, and cussed at us in Russian for wanting Hondas. More tats than teeth!

cmguerrero

11-07-2007, 08:17 PM

It was because of American Chopper, that I decided to get a bike.
I remember watching the show one night, and all the sudden I said to myself,
"THAT'S IT!!! I'm getting a motorcycle". That was back in 8/2004. I don't watch the show as much now, but I must admit that they inspired me to ride...

v65saber

11-07-2007, 08:31 PM

MIKEY RULES :wave1:

Phillyrube

11-08-2007, 03:57 PM

saw them in Sturgis a few years ago, they were charging for autographs. Vinnie was working the booth at that time, pissed me off so bad I ahve't watched since.

John Anthony

11-14-2007, 09:15 PM

saw them in Sturgis a few years ago, they were charging for autographs. Vinnie was working the booth at that time, pissed me off so bad I ahve't watched since.

That fries me. They're so stinkin' rich they can smash everything in sight and then to show how the appreciate their fans do something stinkin' like charging for autographs. Maybe I'll get them to autograph a check!!

John

UNTMatt

11-14-2007, 11:05 PM

Had a friend meet them at a rally, got a picture with Jr. and they didn't charge him anything.

That being said, they were entertaining the first few times I watched but the routine is getting old.

Jessie James has better looking bikes imho.

tommyboy

11-19-2007, 01:16 PM

Same old routine. - Ice Road Truckers meet Choppers. Another stupid reality show. (I did like Ice Road Truckers, though!)

TxStPilot

11-21-2007, 08:27 PM

it was new and different tv progamming, when it first came out...

i soon got tired of all the bickering, ..

...then it seems (to me), it got too corporate oriented

anyway, i hadnt watched it in a long time....

tsp

bluedragon

11-26-2007, 09:14 AM

I used to watch it a lot more, but the bickering gets old and the designs were, for a while, all the same. Still watch occasionally but would rather see them building bikes than BBQ'ing at home or other nonsense. Last episode I watched was when Vinnie left the shop for good, don't blame him one bit since he was always getting crapped on by JR to do JR's work.

pepizan

11-28-2007, 10:15 PM

This is contemporary television. Yes, it does open up the world of two wheels;however, anyone who has ever rode a hard tail and has the haemorrhoids to prove it soon understands why some prefer sushi rides.

3 out of 10 for the insane, and funny Teutle's. It's just sad to see celebrities and corporations being ripped off (and it gives the impression fair dinkum motorcyclists are con artists).

Pepi

tccox

11-30-2007, 09:59 AM

Vinnie and Cody left the shop

http://www.vforcecustoms.com/

Noticed they didn't give any "Special Thanks" to OCC on their new website

John Anthony

11-30-2007, 11:02 AM

I don't think OCC will be the same without Vinnie. Cody never added that much, but Vinnie carried a pretty heavy load. Good opportunity for Rick to step up.

John

STPaulK

12-12-2007, 08:12 AM

I have not watched OCC for a few years now so I might not be "current". But I did observe over the years that Sr. and Jr. seemed to be doing well. They upscaled into some really classy digs while Vinnie was still in a small bungalow. If I were to read between the lines, they didn't share their pie with the workers.

UNTMatt

12-12-2007, 09:45 AM

paulv

12-12-2007, 09:54 AM

I liked the various team bikes, and the creative inventions of Paul Jr. After a while, the arguments all sound the (ridiculous) same. Guess the dope fried a sizeable chunk of Sr :)

CNC milling of designs and Nubby are usually best!

John Anthony

12-12-2007, 05:06 PM

Vinnie left which may hurt OCC in at least the short term. They would have been wiser to treat their employee's better as good empoyees are difficult to come by.

Vinnie was the only employee that I really cared for so now that he is gone, no point in the show.

Couldn't agree more with you on all fronts. I watched the last couple of episodes Vinnie was on and it was pretty painful. Hope they don't try to move Jason Poole up to the front lines as he just looks plain goofy. Rick is the only other one who is an interesting character. All of the rest are just space eaters. I think I'll go back to watching Jessie James reruns. Of course, there's always "American Thunder."

John

johnephlin

12-12-2007, 06:43 PM

I think it is the most stupid on tv.

siclmn

12-14-2007, 09:13 PM

Isn't American Thunder also the most brain dead show too? Bolt on parts for your HD narrated by the Blondie sex object.

John Anthony

12-14-2007, 09:26 PM

American Thunder has actually got worse. Arlen Ness and similar businesses "buy" chunks of the show and it becomes infomercials for them. Maggie and I still get a kick out of watching them, but that's only because Tuesday is a sleeper TV wise.

John

TMUS2122

12-15-2007, 05:22 PM

I think it is the most stupid on tv.

I agree, how can anybody pay those prices. M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E on the workmanship too. What a joke of bikes that no one can ride one more than 50 miles at a time without needing a new a$$ and gas.

STPaulK

12-15-2007, 06:43 PM

I agree, how can anybody pay those prices. M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E on the workmanship too. What a joke of bikes that no one can ride one more than 50 miles at a time without needing a new a$$ and gas.

Whoa, you didn't actually think these bikes are supposed to be ridden do you? :p: OCC started out by making custom bikes mainly for shows and parades. They gradually morphed to rolling advertisements to various companies looking to fork over the bucks Sr, Jr and TLC. They are nothing more than something for people to stare at (either in awe or disgust.) The only nod toward ergonomics I've ever seen is to make sure riders won't burn their leg on a pipe.

I spoke with a fellow who rode the Snap-On bike to Road America racetrack a few years ago (the only employee willing to try riding the 10' long hunk of rolling chrome plating). He was 6'6" and said he was still having to stretch to reach the bars. He would not comment on any other rideability aspect since he was "part of the show". But his face told me he wished he didn't volunteer for this ride. :pray1:

paulv

12-17-2007, 03:56 AM

I agree with an earlier post on this thread; Biker Build Off produces true art and high quality workmanship in just any configuration imagineable (some truly weird looking stuff as well :)) Building your own frames for a start; boy, do you want that to be correct!

Having to ride your own product for a 1000 miles to the show ground will guarantee that ergonomics and practicality will be attended to!

CZman

12-17-2007, 06:47 AM

Pretty good show for family night. My 2 year old is learning new words, but he's only hearing the first half of them. Shame about the bleeps. Great parenting style, though.

STNY

12-17-2007, 09:11 AM

I think we should be asking all the other bike builders what they think of OCC. Would be interesting to get their opinion.

Cheers,
Adam

They all think they are A$$HATS.

ST-BOB

12-26-2007, 09:01 PM

we got to meet them at the louisiana bike expo, real nice down to earth guys.

GitGoFast

12-30-2007, 11:51 PM

The problem is that the uninitiated paint all motorcyclists Teutul Orange.

dr1954

02-21-2008, 08:12 PM

Just was channel surfing and stopped on "American Chopper" and they a building what something close to a dual sport with a sportster engine.

Well at least it is something besides the usual stuff they build.

It is worth a look!

INDIAN EXPRESS

02-21-2008, 09:01 PM

I wouldn't ever own one but it absolutley amazes me how they can start a frame from scratch, cut and weld at a whim, machine and customize parts, and paint, all in a few days and keep their garage so damn neat! Not my style but it keeps people interested in motorcycles. Look at all the people that wear OCC t-shirts and have never owned a bike.