Low Flyer...Rat 53

[Jaypem]

The Low Flyer "Rat 53" has been brazenly advertising itself as a better X53 here for the last couple months.
I'm ready to drop the hubris and admit the obvious....There is no building a better X53.
While it's true that the famous icon built by Western Flyer is a rather flimsy machine, the groundbreaking style and stance of the Original make it one of the true classics.

Taking on the challenge of recreating the X53 as a custom build is by far the most fun I've had bike building to date.
My version is very much a variation on a theme...At no time was it intended to be a replica, or even a close approximation.
That fact gave me the freedom I needed to get creative and even Rat the thing out as I saw fit

The lowered stance, lightly raked out front wheel and slightly stretched frame were my starting points on the build.
At first I had imagined that I'd bolt on the tank, the rack and whatever other dodads I could from my crusty old X53 ( Thanks CeeBee !) And call it good.
But once I decided to take a crack at fabricating the tank, I knew I was going all in...
So, here it is.
Not a better X53...
A Rat53

 

[Jaypem]

Well, I've given up on getting my video posted...But I did get a few more pics to share.
First off, the inspiration for the build.
Next the grips... I think these are the only actual Western Flyer parts on the bike
And then a few more from various angles.
Liked having the old X there as an interesting back drop...

And, thanks to Falstaff... Here's my build thread !

http://ratrodbikes.com/forum/index.php?threads/low-flyer-building-a-better-x53.102054/

 

[Fv2]

Definitely a favorite for me, you've built yourself a contender.

 

[josh_from_ga]

You do some very eye-catching work with the expanded metal.

 

[hammer mechanic]

Really dig the tank and chain guard. Lots of other cool mods too. Definitely has the X53 vibe with way more attitude. Congrats.

 

[LukeTheJoker]

Love this build!

 

[OddJob]

Rat53....fits perfectly! Your custom touches and design work really make this a standout build.

 

[Captain Awesome]

It definitely stands out in a crowd. Definite front runner along with a few others

 

[c1run1]

one to watch right here !

 

[deven_science]

My favorite build of the build off.

 

[Funkme]

Great work on the tank and guard. a fantastic bike.

 

[Jaypem]

Uh..One of the other things I don't know how to do...Post a build link ;(
Well, here are a few pics...

 

[Fv2]

http://ratrodbikes.com/forum/index.php?threads/low-flyer-building-a-better-x53.102054/

 

[Fv2]

I can't edit your post, but you can copy and paste the link.

 

[Jaypem]

I can't edit your post, but you can copy and paste the link.

Thanks Amigo!
Somehow, it looks like I did manage to copy and paste it up above...Another thing I didn't know I knew how to do

 

[Jaypem]

My favorite build of the build off.

Man, thanks a ton!
I'd love to bring it on over to Sac for a Friday nighter this summer!

 

[deven_science]

Man, thanks a ton!
I'd love to bring it on over to Sac for a Friday nighter this summer!

The first 2nd Saturday ride of the year is the 8th. Any chance you'll make it to that?

 

[kingfish254]

That tank is truly inspirational!
You definitely have one of my votes with this baby!
It was a tall order to build a tribute to an iconic bike, but you rose to the challenge in spades and rode away with a true iconic build all your own!!
Just amazing man!

 

[franconuevo]

Awesome build.
Everything works just right. I love and appreciate for sure the work that went into the steel mesh tank, chain guard , rack
and the color combination...perfecto.

franco

 

[Jaypem]

That tank is truly inspirational!
You definitely have one of my votes with this baby!
It was a tall order to build a tribute to an iconic bike, but you rose to the challenge in spades and rode away with a true iconic build all your own!!
Just amazing man!

Awesome build.
Everything works just right. I love and appreciate for sure the work that went into the steel mesh tank, chain guard , rack
and the color combination...perfecto.

franco

Thanks so much you guys!
I really had a blast participating in this build off... Already have some ideas cooking for the next one you can be sure