Unique Characteristics of Low Rider Cars and Bikes

by Nayan Choure,

A low rider refers to a vehicle in which the suspension and hydraulic system was modified to make rides as low as it could. Low riders have controls with their height adjustable suspension. Most of these are typical cars from the year 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. It has a lot of accessories out in the market to cater to the enthusiasts. And because of many modifications in its internal parts, such rides are more prone to damage or obstructions along the road and are not legally allowed to ply the streets.

Low riders started in East Los Angeles as a phenomenon for Mexican-Americans, with majority of its riders being Latinos. A customized hydraulic suspension system is very common features here. They have direct control on the suspension to alter the height, from simple to complex systems. It varies the combination of two battery-powered hydraulic pumps to produce specific movement of the vehicle.

Low riders were popularized and began as part of the Californian and Southwestern American metropolitan civilization. They aim to cruise as slow as possible as what their motto says, “Bajito y Suavecito” or “Low and Slow.” Their urban culture became universal in the early 1990s in West Coast hip hop.

In today’s new era, low riding outlook varies in many other cultures. Vehicles have new visual styles and appearance but still it is an important thing for the Chicano community. For all intents and purposes, all options in low riders are still available at low rider builders with their styles that vary from coast to coast.

Summertime is the most awaited season as it is the time when they go outside and hang around with their group. Some riders and tavern owners have their weekly gatherings together with their friends. Some will go for a drag race for a more thrilling experience. Low riders are typically seen in a prearranged shows or competitions.

In 1962, one of the most popular low rider was the 1964 Chevy Impala hardtop edition. Another model was the 1958 – 1964 Impalas. Meanwhile, the 1961 – 1964 Chevrolet Impala become the fastest selling car together with the 1978 – 88 GM G-bodies. Also hot in the market were the Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, Buick Regal and the Pontiac Grand Prix. The 1973 – 1977 relative edition became the entry level low riders.

During intense customization of low rider cars, some go by in restoring stock cars particularly those American cars in 1930s – 1960s. Other countries like the Volvo PV544, VW Beetle, Morris Minor, Ford Zodiac, Vauxhall Cresta, Vauxhall Victor to be their substitutes for American car because of the shortage of imported cars and its costs in producing new vehicles.

Low rider cars were only in for only a year when the bikers were inspired and customized their own bikes for a low ride too. These inspired bicycles, a well modified bike, features long, curved banana seats, upward – swept handlebars, and with sissy bars. It is excessively chromed up with big wheels and velvet use as common accessories of these customized two-wheel rides.

Low rider bikes first came out and were recognized in the 1960s. It was first seen customized by George Barris in America. After that, the Schwinn Co. introduced to the market the new muscle bike or the so-called Sting-Ray that George Barris first used. It was featured in the Munster.

Until now, low rider bikes are famous and popular with its new designs and distinctive looks, fully customized and modified body in addition to its air hydraulic cylinder. Features include a height adjustable suspension, highly refined chrome, metal frame, twisted forks, handlebars or spokes, sissy bars and the mounted 2-seater love seat.