Ducati Monster Forum

Moto Board => Accessories & Mods => Topic started by: dan miller on February 08, 2011, 05:49:58 PM

Title: tail chop
Post by: dan miller on February 08, 2011, 05:49:58 PM
I've noticed that a lot of Monsters have been the subject of a "tail chop". 

I really like the look, and will be considering it after I get the maintenance stuff squared away.

I see no down sides, save for a possible vehicle code issue (turn indicator spacing) and possibly a resale issue. 

I'd appreciate any thoughts on the above.

Thanks, Danny
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: justinrhenry on February 08, 2011, 06:09:50 PM
a big downside is getting your backside soaked if you ride in the rain.. or for that matter if the roads are wet at all.  and number b, be careful of license plate destruction the first time you hit a bump and the shock compresses. 
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: ducatiz on February 08, 2011, 06:35:31 PM
I live in an inspection state and no problems with using an integrated LED turn signal.

I got a tail chop plate mount and angled the license just so and it blocks a good bit of splash, but you'll still get swampass if you hit too much water.

If you cut it JUST right and save all the parts, you can devise a way to reattach the tail.  It has been done.
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: Travman on February 08, 2011, 06:39:36 PM
It won't affect your resale value.
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: dan miller on February 08, 2011, 07:31:22 PM
Thanks, guys.

Your answers are EXACTLY what I wanted to hear.  lol

Danny
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: lazylightnin717 on February 08, 2011, 07:52:46 PM
Quote from: ducatiz on February 08, 2011, 06:35:31 PM
I live in an inspection state and no problems with using an integrated LED turn signal.

I got a tail chop plate mount and angled the license just so and it blocks a good bit of splash, but you'll still get swampass if you hit too much water.

If you cut it JUST right and save all the parts, you can devise a way to reattach the tail.  It has been done.

They won't inspect mine here in PA with an integrated tail light. The turn signals need to be 9" apart.

I got a sticker from a biker club member named "Bones" for $30.... works for me
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: pitbull on February 09, 2011, 06:02:46 PM
I did a tail chop years ago on my 01 900ie and I've regretted it ever since. I do a lot of long touring and often ride in rain. Tail chop + rain = wet ass. Quality rain gear helps some, but it still makes a mess everywhere.
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: orangelion03 on February 10, 2011, 05:22:37 AM
Quote from: ducatiz on February 08, 2011, 06:35:31 PM
clip...

If you cut it JUST right and save all the parts, you can devise a way to reattach the tail.  It has been done.

I done it.

My bike came chopped, but the previous owner at least kept the cut-off frame part.  I had the opportunity to ride it both ways and I prefer it with the tail.  I  replaced the factory tray with a smaller Barracuda piece.  The smaller tray and removal of the rear fender give a similar look to a chop, but keeps a visual balance I like.

Barracuda, new and painted
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v48/orangelion03/dec1020107-1.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v48/orangelion03/redfinish2.jpg)
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: dan miller on February 10, 2011, 09:26:45 AM
I haven't thought the whole process out yet, but I'm going to do a chop. 

If the curvature of the lens (as viewed from the top) is followed through the tail piece, the line appears to be in front of the turn indicator stanchions.  I'm thinking of mounting the tail piece on a rotary table, milling through the arc and seeing what it looks like.

I suspect that the stuff doesn't machine well.  I tried machining out the top of my air cleaner box, and it didn't go well.  lol  I ended up sawing it, and it saws nicely.

I have been planning on leaving the stock fender on the bike.

I haven't ridden much in the rain since a very miserable ride from LA to Canada a long time ago. Rained the whole way.  Oh, and I almost forgot, another trip from LA to Savanna (and down well into the Florida Keys) in November.  What was I thinking?  Both rides.  lol

Danny
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: JEFF_H on February 10, 2011, 11:25:17 AM
That painted tail looks good  [thumbsup]
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: orangelion03 on February 10, 2011, 07:04:51 PM
Quote from: JEFF_H on February 10, 2011, 11:25:17 AM
That painted tail looks good  [thumbsup]

Gracias!!!
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: ccm900 on February 11, 2011, 06:07:08 PM
Just did a chop on my 96 m900. Mine meeded a litte more modification then the newer (99+ i think) models, but it came out looking great. Still would like to figure out something better with the lock assembly though....
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: DucHead on February 11, 2011, 07:02:10 PM
Quote from: orangelion03 on February 10, 2011, 05:22:37 AM

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v48/orangelion03/redfinish2.jpg)

Mick and the boys approve!
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d147/pompino/RollingStonesTongueLogo.jpg)

;D
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: ducatiz on February 12, 2011, 04:49:33 AM
Quote from: DucHead on February 11, 2011, 07:02:10 PM
Mick and the boys approve!
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d147/pompino/RollingStonesTongueLogo.jpg)

;D

you mean Andy Warhol approves!
Title: Re: tail chop
Post by: orangelion03 on February 12, 2011, 07:57:52 AM
I was going for more of a Gypsy look.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v48/orangelion03/GypsyMST3K.jpg)