Q&A: Paul Teutul Sr. of Orange County Choppers

Before Paul Teutul Sr. and his sons put the good old OCNY on the map, Orange County was often just known as the county stuck between New York City and upstate. But the Choppers boys changed all of that years ago, when their love for bike-building and off-kilter attitudes invaded television sets accross the county.

Their show, "American Chopper," follows the crew as they build bikes under tough deadlines. These days, Orange County Choppers shirts, blankets, fuzzy dolls and Pez dispensers line shelves of stores from coast to coast. The family has also appeared on "My Name is Earl," and has built bikes for celebrities like Jay Leno—and even had one commisioned by the U.S. Air Force.

Metromix chatted with Paul Sr. about his favorite Orange County spots, his iPod playlist and what makes him feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Check out their big 10th anniversary event going on all weekend.

What are some of your favorite spots in Orange County?
I try to stick local to where I live, so places like 88 Charles Street and Ward’s Bridge are a few of my favorite restaurants.

Some people say you guys put Orange County, New York on the map. Do you agree?
I certainly think OCC has helped to put Orange County, NY on the map. I think most people, when they hear Orange County, think California. In fact, so many people thought we were from California, that I got a tattoo on my arm underneath the OCC logo that says "New York."

How do you think OCNY compares to Orange County, California?
Ah, there’s no comparison.

We hear it aggravates you when people think you guys are from California. What’s your answer to them?
Nah, it’s just people not knowing. I have bigger things to get aggravated with these days!

What was your favorite bike to build? Any that frustrated you?
There’s always some sort of frustration with each bike build, that is just the way it works. Picking my favorite bike is a tough one. I’d say that one of my favorites is the POW-MIA bike that was inspired by a group of Vietnam vets that I met during a trip to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.

Have you gotten any of your tattoos done in Orange County and if so, which tattoos? Do you have a favorite shop/artist in Orange County?
Most of them have been in done in different shops around Orange County.

Bands now perform on stage in your retail space. Have you gone to any of these shows? Any bands in the future that you plan to see?
I’ve been to a few of the bands that have played here. I’d like to see Joe Cocker swing by, now that'd be pretty cool. 

Do you have an ipod? If so, what is on it?
I do have an iPod. I’m a fan of oldies, you know, more the music from my era. 

Is there anything in your book, “The Ride of a Lifetime,” that people may be surprised to learn about you?
People would be surprised to learn that I’m actually a pretty mellow guy. And that I basically started two businesses from scratch and grew them to be pretty successful. 

You have a rough, tough reputation, but Metromix knows you must be a softy about something. Is there anything that makes you all warm and fuzzy inside?
Animals, especially my dogs, Gus and Marty.
 
What do you think was the one thing that inspired you to begin building custom bikes?
It was a passion of mine that was always a hobby while I grew the Iron Works business. So, it just kinda naturally sequed from a hobby to a business.

Do you guys have any plans to move your headquarters?
I think we’re done moving. The building is just about 100,000 square feet. 

What is in the future for Orange County Choppers?
Production bikes and expanding internationally. There’s another season of American Chopper on TLC. That’s correct, don’t miss it.  

What about your sons? What would you like to see in their future?
Hard work and no regrets.