As you learn about different motorcycles, you’ll probably hear the term “bobber” used a lot. But what is a bobber motorcycle? A bobber motorcycle is a type of custom bike that entered the motorcycle scene over 100 years ago and remains extremely popular to this day.
We’ll get into the specific features that define this bike style, give a brief overview of its history, explain how it differs from some of the best cruiser motorcycles, and answer some common questions about this iconic ride. That way, you can decide if getting (or creating) a bobber is the right next step on your motorcycling journey.
A bobber motorcycle is a bike that has been stripped down to cut weight, boosting its performance and giving it a minimalistic look.
Bobber bikes generally have a shortened or bobbed front and rear fenders and few body panels.
You can buy a bobber brand-new from a dealer or customize an existing motorcycle to embody this bare-bones style.
Bobbers initially emerged in the 1920s, hit the peak of popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, and remain a sought-after bike type today.
Harley-Davidson’s® Street Bob® motorcycle is a great example of a modern bobber, blending the iconic aesthetic with the performance and technology advancements you’d expect on a new bike.
The term bob means to cut short or to reduce in size. A motorcycle is a bobber if it’s been stripped of (or wasn’t manufactured with) non-essential parts, such as a front fender or other body panels. Bobbers have a raw aesthetic and often perform well on the street due to being lightweight. A bobber is like a naked motorcycle, which also features a streamlined design.
Harley-Davidson is at the forefront of the current bobber movement. The Street Bob motorcycle is “everything you need, nothing you don’t,” featuring minimal body work, a powerful engine, and important Rider Safety Enhancements, such as anti-lock brakes (ABS). The bike has a timeless, classic appearance, but leaves room for your customization.
The history of the bobber motorcycle is rich and exciting. Here are some of the highlights: · 1920s: Motorcyclists began embracing a stripped-down, low-rider style of bike, and the bobber was born. · 1930s: Bobber enthusiasts started customizing their rides even more, and the bikes often sported striking, adventurous looks.
1940s: Military personnel returning home from WWII embraced the bobber style because they got accustomed to riding light, minimalistic bikes while in the service.
1950s and 1960s: The bobber became the most popular type of motorcycle globally.
1970s: Chopper-style motorcycles dominated the bike world for the next few decades.
2000s: Traditional bikes and bobbers reclaimed the top spots among motorcyclists.
Bobbers are still incredibly popular today. Harley’s Street Bob is one of the models helping to keep enthusiasm for the style alive and well.
The bobber is a unique type of motorcycle because there is no one universally agreed-upon blueprint for creating one. However, bobbers typically share these key features:
A stripped-down, minimalistic look
Shortened (bobbed) rear fender
Chopped/bobbed front and rear fenders
Small
Lightweight
The original frame (if a custom job made from an existing bike)
Matte finish (raw and rusty is also common)
Low stance
Front and rear wheels are similarly sized
Tall handlebars, also known as ape hangers
Upright seating position
As a bobber rider, you can customize any aspect of your bike, such as the seat, handlebars, exhaust, gas tank, or paint. That way, you truly own the look, feel, and performance of your motorcycle.
Many motorcycle enthusiasts love bobbers because they:
Have a classic, streamlined look.
Are easy to get on and off due to their low stance.
Handle well since they are lightweight.
Can be customized to suit any taste.
Make commuting and short trips thrilling and memorable.
Bobbers can make excellent motorcycles for women since they are great for smaller riders and are easy to maneuver.
However, some bikers shy away from bobbers because they aren’t always the most comfortable on long rides since they’re more “naked” than fully loaded bikes. They also may lack some of the modern features buyers now expect.
The Harley-Davidson® Street Bob® is a great entry point into the bobber world. It has the look and performance that bobbers are known for, and it comes from a top motorcycle manufacturer that’s been committed to quality for over 120 years.
We can also help you turn your current ride into the bobber of your dreams. Harley-Davidson offers all the parts you’ll need to customize your ride to your unique specifications. Our service team can help ensure all the new parts integrate seamlessly with your existing setup. That way, it’ll feel like your motorcycle came off the factory line as an iconic bobber.
Bobbers are not hard to ride. The bikes are generally lightweight, making them easy to maneuver. Plus, they are low to the ground, so most people, regardless of height, can get on and off without a problem.
A bobber is a stripped-down, lightweight bike, focused on performance and designed for commuting and shorter trips. A cruiser is a heavier bike with a bigger motor and more features, focused on style and comfort, and designed for longer journeys.
You could use a bobber for long-distance rides. However, the bike’s lack of creature comforts could make an extended trip unpleasant.