TC Bros. Choppers came on my radar a few years ago mainly because they were building the kind of bikes I dig on. I'm no elitist when it comes to raw material... I realize not everyone can afford a Pan or Shovel, as a starting point. I'm always amazed with what can be done with vintage Jap bikes, alternative power-plants or Sportsters. TC Bros. seemed to be catering to this type of alternative builder so I wanted to find out more.

I had heard a few rumors that they were sliver spoon kids whose family was in manufacturing. The truth was refreshing, these guys are 100% self made. Their folks are hard working, blue collar Ohioan's and there grandfather is in the honorable position of still owning a family run farm. Tim and Tyler admitted it's their working class roots that gave them the work ethic and tools they needed to get their business off the ground. Starting their company while working regular day jobs and attending college. They worked for 4 years with out drawing a dime from the company coffers and at 25 and 28 I found them to be wise beyond their years. These guys can serve as an example to others that want to start a motorcycle related business. It takes guts hard work and a willingness to make sacrifices.

Being builders themselves meant they developed a line of commonsense parts for home builders that solve problems that many garage mechanics encounter. I especially liked that many of the parts will work on many different models. The universal hardtail kit with laser cut axle plates is a very cool piece for the alternative builder and personally I try to keep a couple on hand at all times.

I asked them what they would like to say to young builders trying to navigate the perils of starting a motorcycle related business. The answer was a resounding "stay in school." Tyler has a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and Tim is a professionally trained fabricator and welder with a college degree as well. This fact helps set the bar high for their products in terms of design and quality. You can check them out at www.tcbroschoppers.com and give them some love on their Facebook page  and Instagram

Join the ranks of built not bought!

-Bear