Lowrider
|
|
Impala61.jpg
It is very common to lower the car in other ways also, commonly by chopping (cutting down the roof pillars and windows) and sometimes channeling (reducing the height of the bodywork). Low riders typically have multi-layer paint jobs featuring thin layers of different colors, metal oxide flake nor pearl flake, air brushed murals, pin stripping, whitewall tires and chrome spoke wheels with spinners. The original low riders were mostly Chevrolets, although other GMs and Fords were also used. Other features commonly found are interior neon lighting, velvet dashboards and ceilings, laid back seat, chain steering wheels, tinted windows, and extra long rear view mirrors. Many modern low riders also feature stereo systems that produce extremely loud bass.
Many cars with hydraulic suspension also allow the driver to alter the ride height to allow the car to be driven even on bumpy roads. This has also led to the ability to make the car jump, an act called "hitting switches." Therefore also the names "Jumpcar" or "Hopper" are also used. Another common trick is to attach a lump of cast iron mixed with magnesium under the car and then lower the car while driving, causing an impressive display of sparks.
Low riders were originally a facet unique to cholo culture, but have since become common to urban youth culture in general. This culture was celebrated in the 1975 song "Low Rider" by the funk group War.
External links
- Lowrider.com - The Lowrider Community (http://www.lowrider.com/)
- Lowrider Magazine (http://www.lowridermagazine.com/)
- LayItLow.com - The online resource for lowriders (http://www.layitlow.com/)
- Lowrider Haven - Photos of lowriders (http://www.lowriderhaven.com/)de:Lowrider