1966 Ironhead Sportster Short Chop

Thank God There's Harleys . . .

"KMac" from Fall River, MA, United States made available these pictures of his 1966 Ironhead Sportster Short Chop which was converted some 35 or 40 years ago. With her psychedelic paint job and and classic Chopper saddle this Harley Davidson Chopper represents a true 1970's oldschool motorcycle.

Look at the geometry of the motorbike as shown in this picture. The front fork seems to be extended by three or four inches, causing the frame to tilt backwards, and causing the rake of the front fork to be increased. We are in doubt whether the rear shocks might have been shortened as well.

We wouldn't mind if anybody would call this 1966 Ironhead Sportster a Custom Bobber, but technically speaking, increasing the rake of the front fork will make her a "Short Chop".

Note that the Chopper style saddle and the rear fender have not been fixed to the bike yet.

As you can see, when she was converted to a Chopper, the 1966 Sportster frame was left intact. Note how the rear fender strut supports are pointing downwards more than usual, a sign that the frame tilts backwards, which confirms that the rake of the front fork has been increased. Which makes her a Chopper.

The Chopper image is amplified by the psychedelic paint job and the chromed rear swing arm. Straight Bobbers lack excessive paint and chrome.

Detail view of the 1966 Harley Davidson Sportster front wheel with drum brake (not hooked up yet).

Harley Davidson Chopper Tank

There's no denying that the frame and fuel tank of this Harley Davidson Sportster Chopper are adorned with an awesome paint job!

Note the custom filler cap!

1966 Harley Davidson Sportster Engine

Here's a closer view of the 1966 Harley Davidson Ironhead engine of this Sportster Bobber.

(April 2010)