2012 Cleveland CycleWerks Heist Review: Pretty Chopper for Pennies

Cleveland CycleWerks, a small, start-up in Ohio, has produced what is most likely the world’s cheapest, brand new hard tail chopper, the Heist. Costing only $3,200 and coming with a 12-month warranty, there is plenty to like about the Heist.

First off, it’s a good looking bike with a pared back frame and clean lines. The ride it gives is not all that bad either being relatively comfortable on its dual, preload-adjustable seat shocks.

However, as should be expected, there are plenty of reasons ones should not settle for a $3,200 chopper. First of all, it’s small. CycleWerks gives the bike’s dry weight as being a mere 254 pounds. Moreover, its 25.4-inch seat height and 229cc displacement are far from impressive. Probably the least favorite thing about this bike is its lack of power. While it gets along fine at less than 50 mph, anything faster than that produces shakes and twitches that are decidedly unsettling. 

That being said, the Heist is a fine bike for small riders or for those looking to get their first chopper. Just keep in mind, you will be required to have an Ohio motorcycle insurance policy to operate this bike legally on the street, despite its size. 

This writer hopes that the diminutive and cheap bike finds its niche in the market.  Here are the full details on the official site:  CCW Heist.