Is West Coast Choppers still in business?
Is West Coast Choppers still in business?
By Jason Bolton May 03, 2024 20:33
West Coast Choppers, a renowned brand founded by Jesse James, has been a prominent name in the custom motorcycle industry. Over the years, the company has faced numerous ups and downs, leaving many to question its current status.
History and Notable Events
Early Success and Controversies
West Coast Choppers gained fame in the early '90s, particularly through Jesse James' appearances on shows like "Motorcycle Mania" and "History of the Choppers" on the Discovery Channel. However, the company was not without controversy.
In 2007, West Coast Choppers faced fines exceeding $250,000 due to the sale of motorcycles that did not comply with California's air pollution rules set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The dispute between Jesse James and CARB regarding the recall and modification of the non-compliant motorcycles brought the company into the public eye for reasons other than its custom motorcycles.
Closure and Rebirth
In 2010, West Coast Choppers shut down its shop in Long Beach, California, and it was uncertain whether the operations would continue from James' new home in Texas.
This closure was notably linked to James' desire to return to a life before the fame garnered from building bikes on TV. However, in 2013, the company was revived, indicating a potential turnaround in its fortunes.
Recent Developments
Change in Business Focus
Following its revival, West Coast Choppers ceased selling motorcycle customizing parts in 2009, choosing to offer only complete bikes and non-bike merchandise, such as clothing. This shift in business focus suggested a strategic move by Jesse James to exercise more control over production and establish quality control measures.
Relocation and New Ventures
In October 2010, the Long Beach shop was closed, and James' other business in Long Beach, Cisco Burgers, remained open. However, James decided to open the company back up in 2013, indicating a potential revival of the brand.
Collaboration and Merchandise Launch
In 2019, West Coast Choppers launched the KIMI by West Coast Choppers range of merchandise, indicating the company's continued activity in the market. This latest development suggests that West Coast Choppers is still actively engaged in its branding and merchandising efforts.
Despite facing challenges and controversies over the years, West Coast Choppers has demonstrated resilience by weathering closures and reestablishing its presence in the market.
The brand's history, coupled with recent developments such as merchandise launches and strategic business decisions, suggests that West Coast Choppers is still in business and actively pursuing new ventures.
West Coast Choppers, under the leadership of Jesse James, has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain its presence in the custom motorcycle industry, indicating that it is indeed still in business and pursuing new opportunities.
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