Motorcycles in the series "Sons of Anarchy" (in Russian box office known as "Winchesters") became not just a vehicle, but full-fledged characters. They reflected the character of the characters, their status in the club, and even plot twists. Spectators remembered the roar of the engines Harley-Davidson, the shine of chrome and the unique style of bikes that have become a symbol of freedom and rebellion.
But which models were used in the filming? How were they modified to suit the needs of the series? And is it possible to buy the same motorcycle today? In this article we will analyze all stories from "Winchester", their technical features and give practical advice to those who want to recreate the legendary image.
Spoiler: most of the motorcycles in the series are custom Harley-Davidson, but not all of them were original. Some bikes were assembled specifically for filming, while others were purchased from real biker clubs. If you plan to repeat the style Jax Teller or Clay Morrow, be prepared for serious investments: prices for such motorcycles start from $15 000 and can reach $50 000+ depending on the configuration.
And now - a detailed analysis of each bike, its history and how it influenced the culture of the motorcycle world.
1. Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide - Jax Teller's motorcycle
The main character of the series Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam), traveled to Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide FXD 2003 release. This bike became the character's calling card and one of the most recognizable motorcycles in film history.
Initially Super Glide was released in 1971 as a hybrid between a cruiser and a chopper, but by the 2000s the model acquired a more aggressive design. In the series, Jax's bike had several key modifications:
- 🔧 Engine: Twin Cam 88 (1450 cc) air-cooled, modified for better low-rpm traction.
- 🎨 Color: matte black with red accents (club colors SAMCRO).
- 🛡️ Additions: long forks, low-slung, cropped rear fender and chrome details.
- 🔊 Sound: direct exhaust system Vance & Hines for a characteristic “growling” sound.
Interesting fact: Charlie Hunnam drove a motorcycle himself during filming — the actor had experience driving bikes even before starting work on the series. This added realism to many scenes, especially the racing and road fights.
The series used several duplicates of this motorcycle - some were destroyed during the filming of accident scenes, and one example was later sold at auction for $120,000.
2. Harley-Davidson Fat Boy - Chibs' bike
Harley-Davidson Fat Boy FLSTF - choice Philip "Chibs" Telfer (Tommy Flanagan). This motorcycle was perfect for the character: massive, reliable and solid, just like Chibs himself.
Model Fat Boy debuted in 1990 and immediately became a legend thanks to her wide front wheel (150 mm) and a massive frame. In the series, Chibs' bike had the following features:
- 🔥 Engine: Twin Cam 96 (1584 cc) - more powerful than Jax.
- 🖌️ Design: classic black color with a minimal amount of chrome (Chibs preferred practicality rather than ostentatious luxury).
- 🛠️ Modifications: reinforced suspension for a heavy driver, high steering wheel ape hanger and additional lights.
In one episode, Chibs says: “It’s not just a bike, it’s an extension of my body.”. And this is not an exaggeration: Fat Boy Known for its stability on the road, which is important for larger riders.
Today Harley-Davidson Fat Boy remains one of the most popular models for customization. The price of a new bike starts from $19 000, but copies from the series (if they appear on sale) can cost 2-3 times more expensive.
If you want to emulate Chibs' style, pay attention to the models Fat Boy 2007-2017 - They are closest to the bike from the series in design and technical characteristics.
3. Harley-Davidson Softail - Clay Morrow's motorcycle
Club President SAMCRO, Clay Morrow (Ron Perlman), traveled to Harley-Davidson Softail Standard FXST. This bike emphasized his status: strict, but elegant, without excessive pomp.
Softail known for its hidden rear suspension, which creates the illusion of a rigid frame (like old choppers), but at the same time provides a comfortable ride. In the series, Clay's bike had:
- ⚡ Engine: Evolution 1340 cc cm (in early seasons) and Twin Cam 88 (in later ones).
- 🎭 Style: glossy black with chrome details, but no frills.
- 🔄 Feature: low center of gravity for better handling.
It's interesting that Ron Perlman didn't know how to ride a motorcycle before filming and underwent an intensive training course. However, in most scenes he drove the bike on his own.
If you are looking for a similar motorcycle, pay attention to the models Softail 2000–2010 - they are closest to the original from the series. New versions (eg Softail Standard 2018+) have a modern engine Milwaukee-Eight, but lose some of that classic charm.
4. Harley-Davidson Sportster - Opie Winston's bike
Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 - choice Opie Winston (Ryan Hurst), one of the most charismatic characters in the series. The bike is smaller and lighter than other club members' bikes, reflecting Opie's impulsive nature.
Sportster - one of the longest-lived lines Harley-Davidson (produced with 1957). The model used in the series 2000s with the following features:
- 🏍️ Weight: about 250 kg - much easier than Dyna or Softail.
- 🔥 Engine: Evolution 883cc cm, later upgraded to 1200 cc cm.
- 🎨 Design: matte black with minimalistic details, often with scratches (Opie did not stand on ceremony with technology).
I wonder what Ryan Hurst is an avid biker himself. and was actively involved in choosing a motorcycle for his character. He insisted on Sportster, because it suited Opie's aggressive riding style.
Harley-Davidson Sportster - one of the most affordable bikes of the brand. The price of used models starts from $5 000, and the new ones Sportster S (2021+) cost approx. $15 000.
Why did Opie choose a Sportster?
Opie was the youngest and hottest member of the club, and the Sportster was perfect for his riding style - fast, agile and sometimes reckless. Plus, this bike is easier to repair after accidents, and Opie often got into trouble.
5. Other motorcycles from the series: from choppers to Japanese bikes
Besides Harley-Davidson, in "Sons of Anarchy" other motorcycles appeared - like those of the members SAMCRO, and so do their rivals.
Here are some of them:
| Character/Group | Motorcycle | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tig Treyger | Harley-Davidson FXR | Rare 1990s model with a frame optimized for speed. Teague rode him in the early seasons. |
| Bobby "Elvis" Munson | Harley-Davidson Road King | A classic touring bike with a large windshield, it emphasized Bobby's experience and wisdom. |
| Club "Mayans" | Yamaha V Star 1100 | Japanese cruiser used as a cheaper alternative to Harley. In the series, this symbolized the club's low status. |
| Police | Harley-Davidson Electra Glide | Police version with siren and flashing lights. Used in chase scenes. |
It's interesting that japanese motorcycles (for example, Yamaha or Honda) in the series have always been associated with "enemies" or "weaklings". This reflected the real culture of biker clubs in the USA, where Harley-Davidson considered the only "real" bike.
⚠️ Attention: If you are planning to buy a motorcycle from the series, please note that many models (especially Dyna and Softail until 2017) have engines Twin Cam, which are known for problems with oil pump. Be sure to check your service history before purchasing!
6. How to buy a motorcycle from Sons of Anarchy?
If you're dreaming of a bike like Jax or Clay's, you have a few options:
- Buy the original model.
For example, Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide 2000–2010 models can be found on the secondary market for $8 000–$15 000. Look for examples with mileage up to 30,000 miles and a complete service history.
- Order a custom assembly.
Many shops specialize in Sons of Anarchy style bikes. Average cost of customization - $5 000–$20 000 depending on the level of modifications.
- Buy a replica.
Some companies (for example, West Coast Choppers or Orange County Choppers) produce motorcycles inspired by the series. Prices start from $25 000.
☑️ What to check before buying a used Harley-Davidson?
If you decide to assemble the bike yourself, pay attention to the following details:
- 🔩 Engine: Twin Cam 88/96 or Milwaukee-Eight (the latter is more reliable, but more expensive).
- 🎨 Color: matte black or metallic with a minimum number of stickers.
- 🔊 Exhaust: direct system Vance & Hines or Screamin' Eagle for a characteristic sound.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a motorcycle from the USA (for example, through auctions eBay Motors or Copart) please note that you will have to pay customs duties (up to 30%) and do customs clearance. Sometimes it is more profitable to buy a similar bike in Russia or Europe.
7. Legal nuances: is it possible to ride such a motorcycle in Russia?
In Russia, motorcycles from "Sons of Anarchy" legal, but there are several important points:
1. Compliance with traffic regulations.
- 🚦 Lights and signals: In the series, many bikes are driven without headlights or with non-standard dimensions. In Russia it is punishable by a fine of RUB 500–1,500 (Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
- 🔊 Noise: Direct exhaust systems (straight pipes) exceed the permissible noise level (92 dB). Fine - 500 ₽, but they can force you to redo it.
2. Registration and technical inspection.
Motorcycles are older 3 years require passing technical inspection. If the bike is heavily modified (for example, the frame or engine is changed), problems with registration may arise.
3. Insurance.
OSAGO for motorcycles with an engine over 125 cubic meters cm necessarily. The cost of the policy depends on the power and experience of the driver (from 1,500 to 5,000 RUR per year).
Before purchasing a motorcycle from the USA, check whether the model is certified for Russia. Some Harley-Davidson (for example, FXDR 114) were not officially supplied to the Russian Federation, and their customs clearance will be more difficult.
8. Harley-Davidson Alternatives: Can the style be replicated for less?
If Harley-Davidson too expensive, there are several alternatives that are close in appearance and spirit to bikes from "Sons of Anarchy":
| Motorcycle | Similarities with Harley | Price (used) |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Scout | American cruiser with a V-engine. The design is close to Sportster. | from $7,000 |
| Yamaha XVS 1300 Midnight Star | Japanese equivalent Softail — low landing, powerful engine. | from $5,000 |
| Kawasaki Vulcan S | Lightweight and maneuverable, like Sportster. Good for beginners. | from $4,000 |
| Triumph Bonneville Bobber | British style with American character. Suitable for customization. | from $8,000 |
If you want the most budget option, pay attention to Chinese choppers (for example, CFMoto 650GT or Zontes GK1200). They look like Harley, but stand in 2–3 times cheaper. However, keep in mind that their build quality and reliability are lower.
Before purchasing a Harley alternative, be sure to take it for a test drive. American and Japanese motorcycles are very different in handling: Harley is more “relaxed”, and the Japanese are sharp and responsive.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Sons of Anarchy motorcycles
Is it possible to buy an original motorcycle from the filming of the series?
Yes, but it is very rare and expensive. Several bikes have been sold at auctions (eg. Dyna Super Glide Jaxa sold for $120,000 in 2014). Nowadays, original copies practically do not appear on sale, but you can find exact replicas from custom workshops.
Which motorcycle from the series is the most reliable?
From a technical point of view, Harley-Davidson Softail (like Clay) is considered more reliable than Dyna (like Jax) due to less vibration and suspension problems. However, all motorcycles require regular maintenance, especially if they are over 10 years old.
How much does it cost to maintain a Harley-Davidson in Russia?
Maintenance costs Harley-Davidson in Russia:
- 🛢️ Fuel: 12–15 liters per 100 km (at a gasoline price of ~50 ₽/l - 600–750 RUR/100 km).
- 🔧 Service: Oil change - 3 000–5 000 ₽, engine overhaul - from 100 000 ₽.
- 🛡️ Insurance: OSAGO — 1,500–5,000 ₽/year, CASCO (optional) - from 20 000 ₽.
- 🚨 Fines: For non-standard exhaust or lack of headlights - 500–1 500 ₽.
Total: minimum 10,000–15,000 ₽/month during active use.
Is it possible to convert a regular Harley into a bike from the series?
Yes, but it will require serious investments. Main improvements:
- 🎨 Repainted matte black with red accents.
- 🔧 Replacing the exhaust with a direct system (Vance & Hines).
- 🛡️ Installing a low steering wheel and trimming the rear fender.
- 🔥 It is possible to replace the engine with a more powerful one (for example, with 88 cu. cm on 120 cu. cm).
The cost of a complete refurbishment is from $3,000 to $10,000.
Where can you ride such a motorcycle in Russia?
Best routes for bikers:
- 🏔️ Caucasus: Route to Elbrus or Georgian Military Road.
- 🌊 Crimea: Serpentines near Yalta or the road to Ai-Petri.
- 🌲 Gold ring: Route Vladimir - Suzdal - Kostroma.
- 🏙️ Moscow — St. Petersburg: Night ride on the M11 (paid, but safe).
For legal racing you can visit the tracks Moscow Raceway or Kazan Ring.