Have you heard of custom bobbers? Motorcycles count among the bonds by which many people become social creatures, a trait that helped us dominate other species. Even in these social groups of motorbike lovers, others would like to be stand out if not dominate. One way by which some assert their presence within these special-interest groups is by having unique rides like custom bobbers.
A bobber is a motorcycle stripped down to its barest essentials but nonetheless equipment assembled and modified with the objective of projecting an alpha character both for the machine and its owner. These motorbikes had a quaint beginning. The first custom bobbers came out in the late 1940s and the 1950s, products of the tinkering of American GIs who wanted to replicate the austere motorcycles they’ve seen during their World War II campaigns. What these ex-servicemen come up with were bikes with no front fenders and rear fenders cropped to the minimum length. Skeletal frames and engines were left open for all to see, and with such a display, the motorbike owners would of course exert all their mechanical savvy to make them worth exhibiting. The rest of the basic parts, such as handle bars, brakes and wheels, were likewise the object of some serious thoughts on modifications.
The same meticulous attention is given in assembling the custom bobbers of the 21st century. Acquisition of a bobber now has become easier. In the early days of this modified bike, somebody smitten with having one had to find some mechanics experienced enough to choose the ideal parts and assemble a unit that is roadworthy and safe for riding. At present, there is less effort at finding help on having this minimalist of a motorcycle. Motorbike clubs, publications and websites are rich sources of information which those afflicted with the bobber fever can access for their dream rides.