Chopper Comparison: Indian Larry vs. Jesse James West Coast Choppers vs. Billy Lane Choppers Inc.

[@calvincandie5344]

I've always admired indian larrys designs..clean yet functional with a flair from the past...

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

There really was genius in his simplicity

[@xmo552]

I'm a novice to motorcycles so I'm no expert... Based on everything you said about Larry's bike and it being built for the N.Y. city... Would you say it's built in the "frisco style" or does that differ? If so, how?

[@calvincandie5344]

@@BillyLaneChoppers absolutely sir he will forever be missed 🙏

[@calvincandie5344]

@@xmo552 check out larrys bike "chain of mystery" absolutely a marvel of engineering

[@xmo552]

@@calvincandie5344 I'm driving. Will do. Thanks.

[@timgillenwater1503]

It's amazing how time flies. I can remember watching each bike builder creating their masterpieces and anticipating each new TV episode. 3 legendary builders with their own distinct style and flavor. Thank you for the inspiration and what you did for the trades back then. You brought creativity and art back to the masses. God Bless!

[@gsmith207]

yup! I built 2 bikes because of those shows. still got ‘em almost 20 years now! wow. whered that go?

[@bludog4657]

I'll give that a TOTALLY AMEN to that!!

[@angeldesigns1385]

It seems like yesterday. These are the very shows that encourage me to go out and get some skills.

[@JonesingUSAF]

100% agree. The riding style, era they were from, and the local culture really shows. I grew up in the south and have now been in Cali for 15 years and both styles really hold true to the culture.

[@chumps7974]

It does seem like those shows aired not so long ago

[@Tom-ou2zf]

Indian Larry had the rake figured out. Not over done , rideable . Most choppers are raked too much , unsteerable , show ponies only. Larry's bikes look right.

[@Tom-mo2dr]

Exactly the way I looked at Indian Larry's bikes. Perfect rake . Anything more is all show no go . Larry was realistic . RIP

[@robbetts]

Bingo. Larry made bikes for people who actually wanted to ride.

[@bbivens8263]

It is also the stock rake on a Harley FLH. Why take away what the Engineers learned over decades? I have ridden many chop`s, the worst was the Arlen Ness way stretched out neck, long springer, and the bike set very low. Which was sort of good, because you didn`t has as far to fall when the damn thing flopped over in slow traffic.

[@robbetts]

@@bbivens8263 The few times I’ve riden that kind of bike (only 3 I can think of), they made me want to park and calm my nerves with a beer. Which is all they’re good for, looking silly as you drive to the bar.

[@bbivens8263]

@@robbetts Yep. I never owned one of these things. I once bought a nice 1961 Triumph T110 that had 6 over tubes. I found I could install a stock Honda 750 disc brake front end with some thin bushings in the neck for the Honda bearings. the bike sat level with what was the stock 28 degree rake for only two years. Triumph did that for racing purposes that required a stock frame. It was GREAT with the wider 19" stock wheel and tire. Looked flattracky. I have a 1966 FLH that I removed the windshield and the bags and put a solo seat on it. Love it.

[@jackrex7817]

Man, these three bike builders changed the way I thought about motorcycles, art, and working with your hands when I was a kid. My dream from age 13 onward was to own one of three bikes; an Indian Larry bike, a Jesse James bike, or a Billy Lane bike. Its absolutely fascinating to hear the history and explanation of these bikes and the thought processes behind them, from one of the guys who built them! This was absolutely wonderful! Thank you Billy.

[@guywilsonwelding]

I think that the riding style of each builder is perfectly represented in these 3 bike's. Something that the general motorcycle viewing population doesn't take into consideration when they see them at face value. Larry's fast blasting the tight Brooklyn streets, Jesse was high horsepower, mid controls inspired much by outlaw %1'er riding. Billy, I know you did a lot more long mile highway riding. Just like you can tell a builder by styling ques, you can also tell by geometry, power train and component choices, his preferred riding style.

[@virgilastacy5281]

I like blue but can't take anything away from any of the other two Myself I want forward controls but on long ride would also like mid range pegs just to change leg position Ride a fxst hard bags lowered some Dressed pretty much like the Heritage no sissy bar badlander seat Love it Old Evo got 86k still running strong

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

That's exactly it! I originally went into this discussion but the video was over an hour long- so I edited that out. I'm going to revisit this subject in depth. But, in short, I built Blue for the highway, & Jesse & Larry built their machines with individual goals in mind. Smart analysis here.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Did you see my Bad Boy videos. That 80" EVO with Screamin' Eagle heads, pistons, big cam, & S&S Shorty! what an engine. I love Knucks, Pans, & Shovels, but the EVO is superior in every way but perceived value.

[@MLEVO4LIFE]

@Billy Lane loving all of the Bad Boy videos! Billy it's so good to have you back brother ...

[@guywilsonwelding]

@@BillyLaneChoppers yep, I watched your Bad Boy build. Evo still my favorite and arguably the best engine HD ever made. Internal geometry/rod ratio, simplicity and all aluminum. It's no wonder it's been the most replicated design from aftermarket companies. We all love classic Knuckles, Pans, Shovels and even Ironheads (which I have a fresh one I'm getting ready to install on a customer bike). But damn the maintenance, leaks, casting materials .. it's like I say, they're like a freaking mechanical watch, everything has to be doing the right thing for the right time.😂👍 It makes me really appreciate the work you do on the turn of the century board track engine's!!

[@jonz5978]

3 of my favorite builders. Pushed me to build my own…..and I still do today.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

now THAT is inspiring. Thank you

[@ericosborne9267]

Great video and great information, love your unbiased reviews. All 3 of you guys are Legends. I just built my first hard tail in my home garage and I must say you all inspired me.

[@williamharring5536]

BILLY, GOOD INFORMATION ON THE THREE!!!! I HADE A PAUGHCO Rigid,76 SHOVEL, H,D, 4 sp, Wide glide front with 21 " wheel,KICK.PAUGHCO UPSWEPT WITH FISHTAILS!!! SOLO !!!! $$ carb!!! Forward controls!!! Tombstone twilight!!! Metal flake. BROWNISH GOLD// LOVED THAT BIKE!!!!!THANKS BILLY!!!

[@joesmith3908]

Very cool, great to see each bike on the road. Billy looks like each other builder on their bikes. Guess it’s the riding position each bike gives. Looks right at home on his.

[@Gabriel-Abdala]

There's no way I'll could pick a favourite out those 3

[@brianridley6609]

I remember watching every thing chopper that discovery would spit out in the early 2000s. This really brought me back thank you.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

You’re welcome

[@billnlori3149]

Very cool video Billy. The respect you have for the other two builders and their style is obvious. Each bike is so cool in its own right, the builder's personality really shows.

[@angelocolon8998]

True,Billy. You have much respect for both legends, including you. Nice to see how honest you are, and I am sure indian and Jesse James feel the same. All 3 of you icons are legends in your own styles.However,indian Larry is the godfather of old school choopers.

[@brianschirmer785]

Agreed

[@bt7775]

Your you tube content is soooooo much better than any bike building tv show could have ever been. Can’t wait to learn more from your next video.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Thank you. There's a lot of freedom here on KZbin that TV will never offer

[@justinjones1507]

I love the fact that you’re humble with your building. We all know how great you are and you don’t come out and say we’ll mines the best you pick everything apart and give credit to every builder for what they do/do better and that’s awesome. Keep building bikes you’re a legend 🤘🏻

[@mjg2332]

I met you at bike week in north Carolina... and you brought me up onstage during your military bike build...I was fresh out of the corps and built my own bike and if I'm honest you inspired every bolt in that bike.you and Paul cox signed my gas tank and I also met Indian Lary that week.anyway it's nice to see you still at it...thanks for all the hard work and dedication....semper fi brother 👍

[@FTW1374]

My 3 favorite 90s Builders…i do have to say Billy you are a great historian and communicator, i absolutely love your you tube content!

[@xThreeFiveSeven]

Larry is king. The three of you had such a monumental impact on the industry though that after you and Jesse no one can touch you guys. And it’s awesome to see a legacy build get some recognition. The stuff that Paul, Bob, and Keino have made after death are all awesome bikes.

[@jackwillson8099]

If it wasn't for Jesse's James you would have never heard of Larry of Billy he opened the door !

[@obsessioniskey]

Thank you Billy for taking the time to do this. For traditional chopper style you just can’t beat the Indian Larry. Choppers Inc hands down for overall style

[@angeldesigns1385]

Blue looks like it would be a lot of fun to ride because of style and fitment, Jesse’s looks like something I’d love to ride if I was in one of those “I feel like I’m top of the world” moods, and how I would love to ride Larry’s bike on a very special occasion.

[@billbarr3952]

To me, Jessie’s bike is the coolest looking bike. Is that because I’m from socal haha. I like the San Francisco tank and the apes

[@HitokiriRaiden]

I always have and always will love indian larrys bikes and style, when he passed it was so sad and we lost a really great bike builder.

[@taterstoolboxskates]

You are literally the three builders that inspired me to want to ride bikes, I custom painted my bike and put a tribute to Larry on it, thank you for sharing this Billy🙏🏻 🤙🏼😎

[@truckcrazy7117]

Hard to believe its been over 20 years with these legends. Miss those times, great bikes, great shows, great rides and most of all the inspiration they brought to the world. Met you Billy at a Easyrider show before. Sad to say not even those events are around anymore. I even spotted Chico from the old biker build off in the high desert in California which reminded me of Jonny Chop! Thank you Billy for everything you’ve done your inspiration will live on forever, be safe brother!

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

This time has passed so quickly. Thank you for being here today, lots more to come from me

[@jamescalderon1309]

Great honest and humble evaluation, much respect. Indian Larry's choppers are the epitome of what choppers should be. Peace and love

[@alteredstateskustom]

all three are amazing! And the styles come through beautifully representing the builders origins I couldn’t pick a favorite one

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Agreed, thank you for watching

[@dougrogers1422]

Love the respect for the other artisans. That Springer is 💯👌 R.I.P. Larry. Great to I really dig this learning experience. A throwback to builders that didn’t just drive their Escalade to the parts store, then beat the heck out of everything to make it fit with no thought of the ride ability of the machine👏👏 Well done all.

[@s.t.1692]

3 gentlemen admiring each other's builds with positivity. Just awesome..

[@shane5420]

Great review of some iconic bikes! Salute to Billy for being so modest and showing such respect for Larry and Jessy bikes !

[@rowlinstoned3715]

Seats and bars are the 2 things that make or break a long ride! Love all 3 styles. Can u imagine where the bike world would be if Larry was still here? Awesome video!

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I think Larry was just beginning to hit his stride when he died in 2004. I wonder, just like you do....

[@bloodshred6007]

​@@BillyLaneChoppers I'm a fan of your work. I tried finding your shop website but no luck, help please?

[@EIRE1980]

This is what real motorcycles look like and are. Three different styles from three of the greatest bike builders and pioneers of this life time. I would definitely ride all three. Bike builders today couldn't hold a candle to either one of these three guys. R.I.P. Indian Larry. You are truly missed. And never forgotten.

[@danflory6340]

Amen! 🤘

[@TheCutdown61]

Larry is the only one with a bit of style. Those other bikes are ugly! No flow.

[@Rudywtf]

well, if you don't ride, then yeah.. no brakes, no gas, no suspension. its qualifies for the definition of a motorcycle, but it seems you imply they're better than what they are by looks over function.

[@codycaron3058]

Your latest videos are top shelf Billy! Keep it up! I love hearing the behind the scenes history of the chopper Icons.

[@gunshaft]

When I was working at Young Choppers back in the day we stored some of Larry’s bikes a few times and I was always absolutely blown away at how his bikes fit like a *glove*. Such a great look mixed with surprisingly practical geometry.

[@67Redlines]

Watched this video a few times but never entered a comment. Thank you Billy for honoring Indian Larry and Jesse James and the 3 Builds. Hard to pick a favorite. I've learned a lot from all three of you. Creative, clever, and entertaining. Keep em coming Billy.

[@jamesg6792]

This is a great video. I have never seen a comparison between these different styles/builders. All three of you built beautiful and functional bikes. Larry for sure is missed but its nice to know the chopper legacy is being carried on via you and Jesse. Thanks for the video Billy.

[@toddk.5873]

Thanks Billy. A lot of nice custom handmade parts on those motorcycles. I learned a long time ago to be a fan of front brakes after wiping out a few times on wet roads in a turn. I won't judge 'cause I've built a few bikes & many hand made parts. I just appreciate all the work all you guys do.

[@surefire650]

Dude. Thank you so much for this video. When I was a teenager in the 90s I had blue and your hubless bike, Larry’s grease monkey, and Jessie’s camel bike all on my walls. All of you were masters at your craft and were an inspiration. Thank you

[@n8barnhart]

Much love to all 3 of you and Thank You for all that you have done for the chopper community over the years. Grew up on a 47 Knucklehead with a 20 over springer and a suicide shift. I was fortunate to meet Larry and Jesse in the early to mid 90s and couldn't ask for better guys to talk shop with.

[@cruiserdog9913]

The first chopper I saw that I liked way back in the day was Indian Larry's bike with the orange oil filter near the back tire. I've never owned a chopper. (I'd love to). If I had to pick between the three you showed, I honestly think I couldn't. Each has aspects I love and I like the looks of all three. Thx for showing these Billy. (side note) You mentioned Ron Finch. I met him at his old shop once. The whole building, including his bikes, were works of art.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Larry and those orange FRAM filters got me hooked, too. It was such a punk rock, hot-rod touch. Finch has been a big inspiration on me also, his work is other-worldly

[@kevinjansen2738]

Great video sir. Great to see that you can be up front and honest about your “competition “ remember the biker build off days fondly. Thanks for all the info and memories.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I'm a huge fan of Jesse's work & Larry's work, nothing to be ashamed of. Thank you for the note, glad you are here

[@firsttimejongbuild]

Billy just wanted to say thank you for your inspiration. Though WCC got to me first in the early 2000's, with inspiration to learn metal forming, welding, machining etc, the momentum that it began and eventually getting to your unique style, just helped me carve a new drive for me. Thanks to your exposure and many others, I am now teaching my 13 yr old son about bikes and everything else above. Watching you guys do it really showed me there was a way to learn, and though i don't build bikes, it still helped me build the cool things I do today, and thanks to you I can pass some bad ass stuff to my son. So glad your well and making content. Cheers!

[@lawrencetrapani5623]

Thank You Billy! It's always Nice to see your rides and videos. Old School here and built my first Harley in the early sixties went long, then the next a bit shorter always rigid frames my last build was in 1969 built a shovelhead with a wide glide 6 over 57 dog leg rigid frame raked the neck and went with a wide glide with 6inch pull back risers and drag bars. Have been riding a 1986 evo fxst softail for 39 plus years and lie the old school look with rear suspension and all of NY rides had 21 front and 18 rears and forward controls and lie yourself the Seat having a bit of lombar is the joy to comfortable ride on long trips. Took 8 seats on last bike to finally get one that was lean not much padding but great support! All 3 of the bikes you showcased remind me of back in the day!! Was raised in San Diego California and to this day think the Era you showed today have always seemed to have the nicest bikes on the road. Guess I would say Old School was the best way for Me! Lots of great rides built by lots of bike loving guys back then seems to have been the Era of unique and stand the test of time and when you show up anywhere on the oldiesThey still Stand out and are admired! Thanks for your input for the Community! Ride to live,live to ride!

[@larrymurphy5650]

Excellent presentation Billy, thank you for making the time to put it together, very well done. Great to see these three bikes made by true artists in metal who put in the time to learn their craft and rise to the top of their field, all three merit the recognition they receive from those who appreciate what it takes to design and create such original and beautiful creations. I don’t think one can be chosen as markedly superior; collectively they represent the work of masters.

[@eddiesica3649]

I love all three for what they are , you guys are all legends in my book!!!

[@jrd8782]

Jesse and Billy both captured my mind. Read their books watch the shows over and over. Inspired me in so many ways thank you

[@turtlecullimore7454]

I like how you had no biases when talking about the 3 different bike builds. Honest with integrity. Great job.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

No bias at all. If you picked one of the three & told me it was the only motorcycle I could ride for the rest of my life- I would be happy with your choice. Thanks for watching

[@notchback93]

I wanted to say my favorite episodes of Biker build off were always your episodes and Larry’s episodes, both individually and when you guys competed against one another. There was a mutual respect and a real friendship, between you guys. RIP Indian Larry.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Larry was a special talent. I think about him every day. Thank you for sharing

[@rdlykryk4384]

I grew up on the East Coast (DelCo) during the late 70's early 80's. Local clubs all rode long choppers so Billy's style has that appeal. I have lived in South Fla. and in SoCal. Appreciate other Artists style but love that sleek look of Choppers Inc. Thx. for the detailed explanation of aspects of look and handling.

[@mac43068]

My favorite has always been Choppers Inc. I like the use of old parts, long stretches and Springer frontends. I also love the Indian Larry bikes. Jesse has always made some amazing bikes too. I was fortunate to have met you and Larry at a bike show. Really cool dudes. Keep building bad ass bikes.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Thank you. We would've met you 2003-2004, what a time that was. I'm glad we're both still here. Larry I miss

[@kingkyle6616]

Have always admired all 3 of these builders. Love Billy Lane, his choppers are works of art.

[@lukevanwyk2541]

I love the look of the Indian Larry bikes. Hearing about all the details on Blue was really cool, the hub inspired by hot rods the carburetor intake, cool stories in the details. The power of Jessie’s bike is where it’s at.

[@mahmoodismaeel2888]

Amazing video Billy! There is no comparison video between these 3 legendary choppers anywhere on the web, the way you elaborated the points and categorized them is top notch work, thanks. As to my personal favorite, the CFL frame hands down is the best looking chopper frame ever built. Those lines of the CFL and the geometric is just phenomenal. Thats my personal opinion of course.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I love the CFL, this one is particularly good. I was originally trying to borrow another CFL for the video, but this one is such a badass machine. I'm going to build a traditional CFL 2-UP later this year, with an early frame from the Long Beach shop. Jesse & I have been talking about it. Look for it here on KZbin. Thank you for the response to the video, I think it needed to be made.

[@hasanraza4650]

​@@BillyLaneChoppers give the full video. Keep up the good work. It was an awesome presentation

[@mikeweaver238]

All 3 of y’all are legends. Different styles but all cool. All winners !!!

[@mariarusso1155]

Hi Mike how are you doing. I hope your day was good. I’m Maria from Minnesota. 😊

[@haroldobrien4322]

Nice clear concise breakdown of the three styles. Informative without BS. Very well done, Thanks.

[@mariarusso1155]

Hi Harold how are you doing. I hope your day was good. I’m Maria from Minnesota. 😊

[@matthewhalpin8351]

I loved this thanks Billy, will always as I am sure you do miss Larry He said building choppers was an art form, we all agree with that .Love your bikes thanks again,,...

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Thank you. Larry helped me a lot, especially in understanding the artistry of this. Like Larry, I began as a grunt mechanic- but got very lucky

[@leonardorodriguez9919]

​@@BillyLaneChoppers love all that you all build the most beautiful bikes I've ever seen

[@RanchoDeSanchez]

Love this video! 3 builders that inspired me to get into metal fabrication. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@joecampbell4199]

I love all three bikes. I've put about twenty-five thousand kilometres on my CFL. In seven years that I owned her. For a hardtail not a bad Rider but I also had shocks under my seat. Along with forward controls. That being said my 09 night train was a big step up for comfort. I still think the CFL is one of the best strongest rigid frames made. Thanks Billy this was awesome to watch

[@JohnnyJalopyArt]

I dig that you see and appreciate the difference in build and design even compared to your own style. Its what I respect about your style!

[@guttertierbot]

I have always been in love with the classic styling of Indian Larry. He was one of the biggest reasons I got into motorcycles and decided to go to the Harley technician courses at MMI. Seriously hope to get out to the Indian Larry Indian block party this year. Love the channel and these videos that just take me back to where it all started. Watching you guys compete and ride on the build off series ignited my passion for motorcycles.

[@aaronopticarmor4441]

This video is so good, please keep them coming. We all get a kick out of them. I love the style of each chopper, they represent a great time, that in my opinion are the best of all shows ever produced on motorcycles. I so wish there would be another big push on choppers. Fantastic bikes!

[@scrambledmeatco6563]

Of all the builders that the late 90’s thru 2000’s produced these are my favorites…Indian Larry just brought that traditional old school that I still love the most! I can’t tell you how much this video made me smile! While all three bikes are badass, Indian Larry just has the style I prefer! Thank you for sharing and going into such detail on each one! Very very cool shit and respect to you for showing appreciation to other builders! The build off between you and Larry was by far the best one too! Mad respect!!

[@bonessmith1276]

I love all three of these bikes. All three builders are some of the best at their craft that this world has ever seen. The bikes are built to actually ride. They aren't show bikes that are crap to ride. Jesse's bike is the only one I could ride , I never rode a suicide shift. I would love to rip down a highway on that bike! Thanks for this video , I really enjoyed the details of the bikes.

[@Banjoandguns]

The good old days. Man I miss Indian Larry. It would be crazy to see him now. I’m glad to see you are doing good.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I wonder what he would have given us in the last 19 years....

[@meatballsalad]

​@Billy Lane man its hard to believe it's been 19 years!! Crazy how time can slip by...hats off to you gents for the memories...thanks

[@JSocial31]

I love the work you do, Billy. The best works of art come out of your shop. My favorite bike that Billy built is the Knuckle Sandwich🤘 I'm a huge fan of the chopper God Indian Larry R.I.P brother. His Mystery Chain bike is insane. A true masterpiece👌 and of course, Jesse James with his 6 gun risers. Jesse was always ahead of the game. Larry, Billy and Jesse belong on the Mount Rushmore of bike builders. All are pioneers and true chopper LEGENDS👊

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I actually traded Knuckle Sandwich for Blue. I wanted Blue back so bad, after I initially sold her.

[@noemelara2643]

​@@BillyLaneChoppers please bring back your six shooter products.....please

[@JSocial31]

@Billy Lane I'm a little familiar with the history of Blue. I've been following your carrier, seems like forever. That's actually the second Blue u build, if I remember correctly. It's cool to get a reply to my comment Billy👌keep on killing it in the bike world. I got nothing but luv for ya brother... Sincerely J

[@88stanly]

Im going with Jesse's bike. I love the look sound and performance going off what you said. Larry was my favorite builder for his crazy motors and twisted downtubes and little pieces he had on his bikes bobber style. Chopper style builds you have always been my favorite for your original designs like the hubless back wheel cool bars tanks and exhaust. All 3 very talented at there craft. Westcoast bike is just my preference

[@kevincooper2619]

Blue has probably been my favorite chopper of all time of any bike ever made....I was drooling over it in the early 2000s

[@mariarusso1155]

Hi Kevin how are you doing. I hope your day was good. I’m Maria from Minnesota. 😊

[@ronaldhellengreen7063]

Myself, I like all three! It would be WICKED to build one with a combination of all three. My mind is going crazy right now with different ideas! That's something you should consider bro! You're ideas, and imagination would be able to create something really special.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Might be like when two beautiful people get together & have a really ugly kid.

[@chriszasada9756]

You pretty much nailed it on all points for all three bikes. I am growing more into the Indian Larry style mainly because it's light and handles great . Mid controls are a definite no go for me have to have forwards to be able to ride . My 2008 Fat Bob is just perfect to ride all day , short or long distance, but our 48 special sporty is just as fun if not more fun to ride for short trips around town because of how light it is versus the heavier Dyna glide . Keep posting love your videos, knowledge you have and building skills .

[@smallfry0764]

Yes! REAL builders that built REAL bikes! All three of you are awesome and it’s very cool to see the contrast between your styles!!!

[@COBHC8890]

Wow! I really needed this! I grew up (like most people watching this lol) Biker Build off, Motorcycle Mania, American Chopper etc. I miss seeing Billy, Larry, Matt Hotch, Arlen/Corey Ness, Jesse James, Finch, Mondo, Trotta, Bourget, Rooke, Kendall Johnson, etc...the good ole days. I still have a pair of your Sha Sha work boots. Red flames.

[@almeist3150]

Love the geometry on your bikes Billy, my favorite is the one that the seat cought fire. Much respect brother. 👊🏻

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

So that was the Dave Perewitz Biker Build-Off bike, Down 'n Dirty. That geometry was based off my very first Panhead chopper: no frame stretch, with 50 degrees rake & +12" springer fork. Blue has 4" frame stretch with 45 degrees rake. Both, to me, are great to watch go down the road.

[@almeist3150]

@@BillyLaneChoppers The low slung bars, springer front and the rake those are running says it all imo.

[@TheOldManOutdoors]

Great video! Loved watching all three of you on TV. This brought back a lot of good memories. Looking forward to the snow melting so I can ride the canyons!

[@TheOldManOutdoors]

Hard to pick which of the 3 are my favorite but I love the look and riding style of the WCC. So that’s my pick 👍

[@freshoxygen2176]

Gorgeous craftsmanship on all 3. Tend to be a huge WCC/Jesse James fan. My Army buddies and I would get together for Monster Garage every Monday evening. And have to say with Mad respect to all three. Still picking the black WCC

[@vvvxt]

Hell yeah! WCC is the flag I personally fly. All 3 bikes are beautiful in their own ways!

[@antons6840]

I always loved the dimensions and shape of Indian Larry's bikes and never really knew why, so its really cool to hear someone break it down as to what made his and others unique.

[@HansensSpeedShop]

I prefer mid for any type of riding you have way more control of the bike and for me personally with forward controls on the highway the wind wants to push your legs apart because there so stretched out in front of you and it gives me major hip pain so for distance and handling I like mids, all three bikes are awesome and the top in style of the areas they represent Jesse had a modern take on the Frisco style Larry had a modern twist on the hardcore New York style and you had a modern take on the bobbers and choppers of the 60s and 70s all unique and cool I’ve always been a fan of all 3 builders

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Thanks for the comments. I'm chopping up a custom for myself now, and using mid-controls on it. This is a first for me. I owned two CFL's, one with mids and one with forward controls.

[@duathlete827]

Another very well done vid. I like the way you broke down all the different elements in comparing all the bike styles.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Thank you. I talked to a lot of people about this before making the video

[@jeremydiamond8824]

I’m nots ride but I loved watching the chopper shows you all did including OCC but I love all of em ! It’s cool that your still doing it along with OCC that tells me you really love your industry!!😎👍🏻🇺🇸🦅

[@garyny4073]

Billy , you're a legend just like the other two guys , talked to u years ago at the NYC intl bike show where also over the years I would talk to Larry . Love jesses el diablo 2 softails choppers , been to his shop back in the day twice but never saw , met the legend ! All great work and all u guys are legends 👍☕☕

[@jeffputman8242]

Thank you Billy ! I love that you are very straight forward and give an honest perspective to all the builds. Personally I do love the sound of the two older bikes compared to the modern Evo. HP is ok but if 90 perc of your riding is around town then your under the HP curve anyway. The Vincent's are a prime example that great gearing ratio can do very much for the Bike. With 6.8:1 compression ratio, the 998 cc Series A Rapide Vincent produced 45 hp (34 kW), and was capable of 110 mph (180 km/h). The high power meant that the Burman clutch and gearbox transmission did not cope well.( excerpt from Vincent History article ) .. For Seats I totally agree with you on support for all day events. Keep the Video's coming Please, I get so much inspiration from watching other artists , especially if you love what you do. Thanks Again.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

And I do love this. I agree with you on the horsepower, I've struggled for three decades with customers who want way too much hp for the sake of having it. I owned a gorgeous Vincent Comet, but have always wanted a twin. Some day I will have one- I promise you. The seat thing is pure truth. Thank you for watching & commenting.

[@robertburke3316]

Great review on all 3 Billy! Blue has the looks and comfort by far but I honestly love the simplicity Larry incorporated in his bikes. The saying less is better stands strong on Larry’s bike and the west coast chopper has it going on as well especially in the reliability department with the evo and braking. Great looking bikes by far as opposed to what’s out there now a days. Always enjoy the videos! Stay well

[@brandonmacon3317]

Blue... Comfortable? Do you even ride bro 🤣

[@georgeboduch6015]

@@brandonmacon3317

[@georgeboduch6015]

I Agree w/ Robert,If you sat on Blue you might feel different

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

That bike is a Cadillac, so comfortable, light, and compact. I've ridden Blue over 700 miles in one day.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Blue is very compact. During the early 2000's, custom choppers got ridiculously long, wide, & heavy. Blue possesses none of that. It is a very deceiving motorcycle.

[@ryurc3033]

It's hard to believe I was just graduating from high school in 2003 when the biker build off stuff was just getting started. Me and my dad were always cutting up bicycles(because it was cheap fun). In 2003 I took a sting ray, and stretched ,raked, Built my own front forks 4 feet long. No springer, but springer look with 8 inch levers dropping the forks to almost touching the bottom of the rim(it would actually steer after that). Spider webs welded in as gussets, and a pie plate size scrap metal spider on the Sissy bar that was way too tall, and built my own banana seat pan. Covered it with black fake velvet. almost impossible to ride, but it always got huge amounts of attention.....well for a bicycle anyway. All the chopper guys, all the build offs was the whole reason I even learned to weld. Thank you for the last 20 years... wouldn't have been the same without it.

[@MrDuhfactor]

Excellent review... Man I loved watching that series back then... I've always loved Blue......

[@kwamesha3477]

Job well done Billy. Can't say enough about all 3 styles, each unique in their own way. Great tribute to Larry (R.I.P.), Jesse, and yourself.

[@BikesBeardsAndBrews]

Great comparisons! I love the way blue looks and the Indian Larry tribute but at the end of the day I'd probably go with Jesse's

[@revilod20]

I went to metal Fab in voc school 00-04, I got to grow up seeing you guys on TV and all three of you are my idols incredible pieces of our from all of you. True happiness is what you all brought /bring me still thank you!!

[@davidrockwell8278]

Not much of a biker but dig bikes in general, as a mechanic appreciate the skill, knowledge, and historic perspective. Really enjoy your videos Billy. Always enjoyed the build offs that you were a part of.

[@johnhall3860]

I really like the long raked big rear tire bikes especially yours. Indian Larry’s is definitely old school cool and Jessy’s is nice to,it looks like if you had a pocket full of green and a few good aftermarket catalogs you could build the West Coast bike. I know there’s more to it than that it’s just the way it looks. Great video brother keep them coming. Take care and stay safe.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

Thank you. A note on the CFL.....I've thought this through, for many years. Harley-Davidsons through the late 1980's were troublesome, but they figured how to produce a really reliable Machine in the 1990's. Jesse took what Harley-Davidson did, & recreated VERY WELL it in chopper form with the CFL.

[@edgarburnett2115]

Three masters, who could choose?

[@mariarusso1155]

Hi Edgar how are you doing. I hope your day was good. I’m Maria from Minnesota. 😊

[@rocket5557]

What an honest, unbiased, humble, comparison of the 3 best builders to ever be on the show!

[@newtonfirefly3585]

Love how you break everything down. Love the 90's choppers, Very cool that you have those other 2 bikes besides your own.

[@MidwestCoupe]

I feel a return of the Chopp's coming, like it was back in the early 2000's. I Bought my first Harley back then and still own today Custom Softy

[@tillman40]

Price point can’t be 80.k though

[@Full_Otto_Bismarck]

I was a teenager then and thoroughly enjoyed all the TV shows about choppers and bike building even if that one show was less about building bikes and more like a soap opera in a garage. However I really don't wanna see the commercialization of it again. I can't fault a man for making a living but once one gets to making choppers plastered with corporate logos it just doesn't sit well with me. To each their own I guess.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I don't think that will ever happen again. I'm so happy to be here on KZbin. I can say what I want, the way I want, & you- as viewers- can leave comments & be a part of the discussion. It was very one-sided in the early 2000's with TV. Thanks for being here

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I remember hearing the phrase, "choppers are dead" when the bagger thing started to roll. Virtually the entire motorcycle industry turned it's back on custom choppers and the builders & parts makers who raised the industry up with innovation. It all got very corporate and weird, very quickly. I decided to call my company Choppers, Inc. for a very good reason

[@Full_Otto_Bismarck]

@@BillyLaneChoppers Billy I hope you didn't take my statement about corporate logos on bikes as a dig at you, I know you and other builders have logos and such and I should have been more clear about what I was trying to say. I was referencing the builds by OCC back in the 2000s where they would build a bike for some big company like Lincoln welders or even one time I think it was the NY Jets, a multi million dollar football franchise, they built a bike for, never to be ridden. Building a bike for huge multi million dollar companies as basically advertising just, well it just rubs me wrong thats all i wanna say. Cant say anything nice dont say it ya know? What i was told as a kid. Anyways, I have always had the utmost respect for your skills, knowledge, and artistry. Along with guys like Indian Larry and Jesse James who's bikes you had in this vid.

[@wyattoneable]

Very interesting. I enjoyed the insight from a builder. I miss riding in Florida (no helmet laws), but I'll never go back. Tennessee has been very good to me. Wow, to choose one would be tough. Like you, having all three would be great depending on what type of riding I'm doing.

[@SAXONWARLORD1000AD]

what, the whole sitting in a line of traffic because you cant split lanes - thats the worst place to be in all that nasty heat

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I've been splitting lanes on Blue for over two decades, but the Indian Larry style is considerably narrower than the CFL and my bike.

[@BillyLaneChoppers]

I miss Tennessee. I put a lot of miles on Blue while there, those winding country roads are where she shines. I didn't want to come back to Florida, my daily commute between Columbia & Franklin Tn was so good.

[@wyattoneable]

@@BillyLaneChoppers We'll miss ya but I hope to make it to New Smyrna race track one day.

[@landwaychopperbicycles]

I wanted a Chop from any of you guys back in the day. When building a bike for myself, I always ended up with something simular in geometry to Indian Larry's. Short, Clean and Lean, with good trailing edge. You and many others, inspired generations and are continuing this legacy. Thank You....Ride On.

[@1989Rangerxlt]

Very cool video. My first chopper was when I became a teenager. It was a western flyer bicycle chopper my dad brought for on Christmas. I loved that chopper bicycle ,and I always wanted it in a real motorcycle style chopper with the western flyer theme.may peace be upon Indian Larry, very knowledgeable bike builder ,I love them build off shows.

[@sventhorborsen7313]

It’s easy to see similarities in custom choppers, but the way you broke it down highlighting each of your styles it’s clear that each bike is uniquely it’s own. Great video Billy!

[@jayonez137]

All three bikes are awesome. They were my dream bikes when I was younger. Now I’m in my 50s. I love my performance bagger much more these days. Growing up right outside of NYC and hanging out in the city all the time Larry was a king. Always wanted an Indian Larry bike and still do.

[@bryanmayes9234]

Love indian Larry's bike build style so much... RIP brother

[@KenS826]

Wow, those 3 are a bike collectors dream. I'm from New York. Larry's bikes were utilitarian, no-nonsense, light and nimble street rods capable of battling the oppressive traffic of NY. Your Choppers Inc bike is the epitome of the 90s choppers- long and sleek, hand made masterpieces, but sensible, safe and rideable. I think Jesse's West Coast CFL bike is my favorite of the 3 for everyday riding. It's got the classic chopper look mixed with modern style, mechanics and power. Thanks for sharing.

[@troymanning3150]

All three are pure art! I could never afford any of those but boy was it fun to watch the builds on discovery and dream for an hour

[@sterling-Dubois]

I would be proud and honored to ride any three of these bikes. They are all works of art They are all three top-tier bikes

[@keithjohnson6796]

Great breakdown of styles and mad props for showing such appreciation and respect for your “competition”. It’s great to hear a true fabricator give respect to other true fabricators and appreciate their skills!

[@joerectifier]

Excellent video - I learned a LOT. I am not a builder, but I have been riding for 30 years. I set out to build a chopper and I am on the Shovelhead engine right now - ground up S & S -and I have a so much learning to do - and this video filled me in on a lot of stuff

[@illsuspect]

Thank you, Billy, for this in-depth review on these classics. Appreciate your honesty, please keep it coming. I was half waiting for you to stand up on Larry's seat while going down the road.😅

[@brianjohnson1311]

Incredible video. This is, by far, the most honest comparison video. Awesome job of separating yourself from the love of your creation and earnestly judging it against the others. Very well done, sir

[@pete5534]

Hey Billy Lane, thanks for this… Each of these motorcycles is a work of art, and having someone like you going over the major points of these machines is a real pleasure. Much respect to you all.

[@user-ip1ld2hh5x]

Finally a show that's straight to the point, great ❤ love all three bikes! They couldn't be more different, thanks

[@wheeliebad11B]

It's so cool seeing all the bikes together.