tail chop

[dan miller]

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

[justinrhenry]

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. 

[ducatiz]

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.

[Travman]

It won't affect your resale value.

[dan miller]

Thanks, guys.

Your answers are EXACTLY what I wanted to hear.  lol

Danny

[lazylightnin717]

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

[pitbull]

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.

[orangelion03]

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

[dan miller]

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

[JEFF_H]

That painted tail looks good 

[orangelion03]

That painted tail looks good 

Gracias!!!

[ccm900]

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....

[DucHead]

Mick and the boys approve!


 

[ducatiz]

Mick and the boys approve!


 

you mean Andy Warhol approves!

[orangelion03]

I was going for more of a Gypsy look.