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.
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.
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 🤘🏻
You guys are the reason I wanted to be a welder when I was 10 and all these years later I still look up to you guys fabrication skill and use some of what I learned watching you guys back then to do my job everyday
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!
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.
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!!!
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.
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🙏🏻 🤙🏼😎
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.
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.
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.😅
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.
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.
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.
Awesome video my friend I can see what you are talking about. When you are riding your bike you could see the posture of your body how much better it was. I miss all those bike shows ,glad to see you back
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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👊
@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
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,,...
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
@@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!!
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
Well since I'm old ... I still LOVE Indian Larry's classic old school Chopper ! I was never a fan of the stretched out choppers .... But all three are works of art !
I love that Billy took the time to show this.. now when customers come in wanting a build I can direct them to this video! Billy thank you for mentioning Mondo in this, if it wasn't for Mondo and Sugar Bear I wouldn't be where I am today. Mondo and Bear have been amazing mentors for me and I love every second we spend together.
You were extremely honest with your review it says alot about your integrity. I'm personally a visual period correct modern drive train type of guy if I could build a bike or afford to have one built it would be the indian larry bike with the motor and brakes from the west coast customs a set of drag pipes and a two passenger seat with a small sissy bar.
Great video. I feel like they can't be compared. They each have their own a very specific purpose so it is like apples and oranges for me. I've always enjoyed your styles and down to earth attitude on screen. Good to see content from you.
Love them all. Huge fan of yours Billy. I actually came to your shop on vacation but you were out. Still a really cool trip and loved seeing your bikes in person
I'm blown away at the pretty objective review of all three bikes even when though you built one yourself. That was a really cool look at those famous bikes.
Thank you, best 23 minutes of today, loved watching the biker build offs back in the day, loved Larry's Rat Fink bike, watching you ride you can tell they were each made with the fabricator in mind, blue suit you.
Just by personal preference, the Indian Larry spoke to me the most. It looked and sounded the best out of the three out on the street. I'm not sure I'd like being limited to a kick and magneto ignition, but that goes with Larry's style, so be it. Great vid man. I need to get some more work done on my bike.
Just want to start off saying that I love the videos you are putting out. I just caught these videos last couple of weeks and I hope you keep cranking them out Billy. My wife and I caught you out at the Spoke in Sturgis during the 75th. You were kicking off the Sons of Speed stuff if I remember correctly. I had just returned home from Afghanistan and you stopped and talked to us for a few minutes and we both walked away struck by how humble and respectful you were to 2 strangers. You really follow through with that attitude in these videos you are putting out. Love the humble approach to 3 builders and there different styles. Love Larry’s bikes, always have. I was on a tour in Iraq in 04’ when I heard of his passing by way of a biker rag that was sent over to me from back home, totally bummed me out to read that article. I think each style is totally awesome in so many ways. Growing up in Houston I relate to Larry’s style because so many of the old school dudes I knew growing up were building bikes more in the style of Larry’s bikes. Hands down for me is your bike “Blue”. Stance has a lot to do with eye appeal for me so I love the 4” up, 4” out with the 45 degree rake and 12 over springer. Looks like it is going 100 sitting still, you can never go wrong with a shovel. Thanks for the great videos on Biker Build Off series and this one on three great builders. Keep it Sir….well done. Dwayne McBryde Houston, Tx
Thanks for the great message. I remain humble, & feel blessed to be able to share here on RU-vid. Maybe I’ll see you next summer in Sturgis for the 80th
Billy , I love how humble and realistic you were in giving this review … most guys would say my is the best and that’s that .. not you .. at the end of the day it’s hard to do that when you have your creation in the running but still be rational and fair .. I love Jesse and his visions and ideas but I know maybe not him now but back in the day he would say mi es the best that’s that .. and Larry .. well what do I need to say about Larry other than he was an amazing guy and is sorely missed .. love all three bikes and what each one brought to the industry … keep on keepin on brother .. hope to come check you out at the shop again sometime soon
Man I remember watching you guys on discovery when I was a kid pushed me to become and mechanic and gear head just wish I had the time to take a little bit of each bike and make one thank you Billy Jesse and Larry(rip)
Jessie James gets my vote. I love mid controls because it’s easier on my tailbone and my bad lower back. His handlebars also look more comfortable and can come back a little. I love the look of his exhaust but don’t like the scraping problem. Your seat is the best for comfort. I’ve always been big on the best braking you can get and Jessie’s got that down too. I’ve never liked small tanks I’m a fat bob guy. Good comparison.
I cannot choose between all 3 bikes, but, I sure do like the Indian Larry bike because of it's classic roots. It would be so cool riding that bike in Florida checking out the sights as well as being seen.
Really cool video. I like how you gave honest non subjective details on each chopper even though you had one in the mix. Giving the other two greats due respect is always smiled upon. I like aspects of all 3 but your seat by far stands out, lumbar support is huge. I will be honest something about that west cost chopper i love but they all have things I love! Keep riding brother!
You all havevery nice machines. Watched you all in the biker build offs. Very impressed with everyone's style. They are each unique. You Mr. Lane have some wicked designs and technology used. An Indian Larry had the chain frame. Wow. Enjoyed watching all of you. You all seem like really good guys. Could definitely hang out an drink way to many cold snacks with.
I remember Larry, down to earth. I messaged Billy Lane, and he responded with respect . He answered my questions. I messaged Jessy James. He was/is an asshole. Watch my show and buy my merch! Give me your money! Look how good I am. I burned the shirts I had bought. Thank you, Mr. Lane, you are real.
Great great video billy I remember those bikes What a gift from the past thank you Always like your Hot rod style the best But all of you are 3 of the greatest bikers to ever live you're on my mount Rushmore of biker Builders
All three bikes have features that appeal to me and all three have features that are not appealing. If I were to pick one as a base for a build using the preferred features from all three, I would choose the West Coast build for a base. I would use the seat, rear fender, and front end minus the drag bars from Blue, and the controls and transmission from the Indian Larry build. I would use shotgun drags for exhaust and 5 Gallon Softail fuel tanks. All that stated, I have nothing but massive respect for all three builds and builders. This is an excellent video Mr Lane. Well done!
Great video. Love all 3 bikes and their different styles, the fabrication and artistry on display here is amazing. They are all rolling art in my opinion. Thanks for the in depth info on them, very interesting to learn the reasoning behind the different design choices and the riding comparison at the end is perfect also.
Thanks for the vid Billy. Your commentary on the pros and cons of each (considering where and how you ride) seems quite accurate. Short and nimble for city, long for highway, Jesse in between. Different bikes for different tastes. I'd love to have all 3 in my garage.
Really difficult decision, I would vote Billy Lane because of his ability to bring into prominence so many influences at once and create a unique motorcycle not duplicated at all . Indian Lary simplicity is very relatable and endearing, Jessie had the big brother appeal that is very difficult to Matt j and top . So for each season of a years time I believe there is plenty of inspiration to go around ! Thank heavens. Appreciate the video Mr. Billy 🎉
Thanks for giving us a real time look at each bike. I've always wanted to see a show where they actually talked about the dynamics of the bikes, motor, brakes, forks, etc etc. That whole orange county choppers thing got lame, cuz it was more like a day time soap opera," here comes Jr 2 hours late with a cafe latte". I wanna credit to Jesse James or respect or whatever word you wanna use. In the west coast chopper vs orange county choppers build off Jesse said," my bikes are built to go 80 mph for 2 to 3 hours at a time". And that's it in my narrow minded opinion. It's about riding!!! I don't know if I could pick a bike out of the three. They are all awesome. Thanks again billy for a real time look at those bikes.
I CAN'T MAKE A CHOICE BETWEEN THESES THREE BIKES BECAUSE THEY ARE MADE FROM BIG CHOPPER BUILDERS. WHICH I RESPECT THEY ARE ONE OF A KIND AND I LIKE THEM CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THREE OF YOU BILLY LANE. INDIAN LARRY AND JESSIE FOR BRINGING OUT THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE TO CREATE THESES MACHINE. MY NEXT STEP IS TO OWEN A CHOPPER, IT WOULD BE PRETTY SOON.
They are all beautiful. I have been a no compromise sport bike guy most of my life. I can see myself on an XR1200 in the near future. One would need your bike for the highway and one of the others for in town. I am a big fan of good brakes. Not having a front brake seems insane to me. Flat trackers have been that way forever, and they go plenty fast. Ultimately, I would pick Jesse's, but I do love them all.
In Indian Larry's words "There's No Losers And There's No Winners." And we knew what he meant, all beautiful pieces of art and engineering and innovation. This Era of motorcycling will go down in history as one of the most important and impactful ever.
I like them all Billy for various reasons and hats off for excellent ride-along shots equal to each. Like you though I appreciate your comments about seating and I gotta have stretched out seating position. Excellent videos Billy!
15:30. Your bed roll is your lumbar support. Great vid, btw. I miss my long bikes. I used to build and modify choppers back in the late 70s with not much more than a Lincoln buzz box, angle grinder, and hand tools. I've raked a.lot of bikes over the years, including the Road Glide (26" front wheel) that I ride.
