My photographer friend, Robert Stout, wanted a guest bike; he already had one serious bike. A classic chopper with ape-hanger handlebars was desired. The client of the project had previously operated an old school hardtail Triumph short-forked chopper. Designs were discussed, a design was commissioned.

On a classic cantilever frame, an extra long banana seat was rigged. Most available ape-hangers are too heavy and wide for urban riding, an aluminum recumbent bar was sought and mounted to an aluminum racing stem. Hot. The performance of the 7 speed drivetrain was greatly improved by dangerous toothy bmx pedals. 26” alloy rims riding super fat flamed Dyno Fireball rear and 1” wide Ritchey front tires are strongly stopped by the cantilever brakes and big levers.

The ride of this thing is rather good. The ergonomics are positive with the ass weight slightly back and the pedal axle slightly forward triangulated with the high hand position. Plus really, the authentic biker slouch is comfortable, easy, and performance enhancing. Torque production benefits from the seat bar above the rear of the banana. It hits the pelvis just right and makes a solid motor mount.