How to Build a Low Rider Bike

If you see a low-rider style bicycle, your reaction will likely either be that it looks really weird or it looks really cool. Because of this strong reaction, low-rider bikes have become significantly popular with folks who like to modify bicycles and make them unique and personal. However, they're not hard to make. You can make your own version with a bit of creativity, sourcing of parts and little bit of mechanical know-how with tools.

Things You'll Need

  • 1960s or 1970s Schwinn bicycle frame or similar
  • 100-spoke wire wheel rims
  • Banana-style bike seat
  • Socket wrench and sockets
  • Crescent wrenches
  • Hacksaw
  • Sandpaper
  • Steel wire brushes
  • Primer spray paint
  • Colored spray paint
  • Clearcoat spray paint
  • Sprocket and pedals
  • Tire pump
  • Power drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find an old bike frame that matches the same designs as a Schwinn model bicycle from the 1960s or 1970s time period. Also try to source and locate 100-spoke wire wheels and a banana-style bike seat. Scour classified ads for the appropriate parts as you need them.

    • 2

      Use a socket wrench, sockets and crescent wrenches to break down your bike frame, removing any old parts attached to it. Use a hacksaw to cut down the main post for the rear seat to lower the contact point between the sitting area and frame.

    • 3

      Strip the frame of any old paint using sandpaper or steel wire brushes. Fill any dents with body filler and then paint the frame with paint primer.

    • 4

      Paint the frame in your preferred color with spray paint and then seal the color with multiple coats of spray-on clearcoat paint.

    • 5

      Assemble the body beginning with the front fork. Use spring-style bicycle forks for a suspended front end. Reverse the angle of the front forks so that they slope upward to lower the level of the front of the bike. Install a sprocket and pedals that match your specific bike frame.

    • 6

      Install the wheels after polishing the rims so that the metal is almost mirror-like. Pump the tires up with a tire pump for full inflation. Route the drive chain around the main sprocket and rear wheel gear before tightening the rear wheel axle in place. Check the nuts on both axles to make sure they are tight.

    • 7

      Install the banana-style seat so that it bolts to the frame itself rather than a seat post - this lowers the sitting area. Use a power drill to create holes in the frame for bolting on if needed. Add on extra long handle bars with new rubber grips for a high level hand control and reach. Attach a wheel-powered chrome bike headlight for a night-time look. Maximize the mirror look with as many chrome accessories as you can attach to the bicycle.