2006 Proper Chopper Hardtail - '06 Proper Chopper Test

The first choppers were just stripped down bikes with unnecessary parts "chopped" off, hence the name "chopper". They were modified so they could go faster, and reducing the overall weight of the bike was the easiest possible way. Well, Proper Choppers are just what the name implies, stripped down, no nonsense bikes that are damn fast.

As soon as we saw the first couple of bikes in the local shops around our offices, we knew we wanted to swing a leg over one. We inquired about the motors they came with, and were pleasantly surprised to find they come standard with a big S&S 107ci with the option to upgrade to a 113ci. That size motor with a bike that only weighs 546 pounds (dry) and you've got a little chopper that can't help but be sphincter-clenching fast.

The foundation of the Proper Chopper is a strong, relatively light-weight rigid frame set at 34 degrees of rake in the neck with secret frame stretch dimensions. Unlike other manufacturers, no excess tubing is added for looks, only the amount required for a sturdy frame. The front end is a wide-glide style with 41mm tubes, polished lower legs, and rubber fork boots as an homage to choppers from the past. Spoke wheels also come standard, 16 inches for the back and front, with the front wheel sporting a 130mm and the rear a 140mm white wall tire. As an unconventional twist, Proper Chopper used chromed Brembo 4-piston calipers-high-performance brakes for a bike that's probably too fast for its own good.

While we loved our test bike, there was only one thing I would change. I may be a candy-ass, but the seat was too hard for a rigid frame and it felt like it was cupped for a Barbie doll's derriere-far too small. Other than that, the bike was a kick in the pants to ride, and for a price under $20,000, it's no wonder the Proper Chopper 357 sells out at every bike shop they're in.