Gas Monkey Garage Builds a 1965 EV Chopper for Mama Tried Show

EV Chopper Build for Mama Tried

• ⚡ The Gas Monkey Garage crew is in a race against time, with only 11 days to complete a custom 1965 EV chopper for the Mama Tried show.
• 💡 The goal is to build an electric chopper that looks and feels like a 1960s analog bike, minimizing electronics except for the motor and battery.
• 🛠️ Key modifications include a 3D-printed neck to achieve a V-twin look and a girder front end with a 21-inch wheel.

Technical Challenges and Solutions

• 🔌 The team is working to remove ABS and traction control from the electric system, simplifying it to avoid computer issues.
• ⚙️ They are converting the bike to chain drive from the original belt drive and aiming for an analog feel with a drive-by-wire throttle.
• 💡 A significant challenge is creating a custom aluminum neck to achieve the desired chopper rake for the girder front end, with the team opting for an in-house fabrication approach.

Design and Fabrication Decisions

• 🔩 The bike will feature outboard shocks, a custom swing arm, and a chain drive, with a focus on a hardtail design to save time and achieve a specific aesthetic.
• 🎨 Fender selection is crucial, with a preference for a flat fender that complements the bike's straight lines, rather than a rounded one.
• 💡 The team is also fabricating a battery box within the swing arm area and working on a custom subframe for the seat and fender.

Progress and Next Steps

• ✅ The swing arm has been boxed in and cleaned up, with a battery pocket integrated, and is being mocked up for chain and sprockets.
• 🔩 A Paname sprocket fits the LiveWire rear wheel, and the chain is in line, allowing the wheel builder to proceed with a new hub.
• 🎨 The custom aluminum neck is nearing completion, ready for chrome plating, and the girder front end is being prepared for installation to verify tank design.
• ⏳ With only about 10-13 days left, the team is focused on welding, machining, and assembly, with a strong emphasis on making the bike stand out for the show.