Thread: Bombs, the original lowriders.

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I just watched an interesting show on the Speed Channel entitled something like "Living the Low Life" about Bombs, the name given to the lowriders some folks build. I think it is pretty much a California based craze, and one that primarily Latinos (I hope that isn't an offensive term, if it is forgive my ignorance) build.

I always knew they existed, even saw a few when we lived in California, but I never realized the extent to which these guys go to build them, or the history behind the culture. Just like we rodders have certain parameters that dictate how our cars are put together, Bombs are build to some strict guidelines too.

Speed is not important..........low and slow is the slogan (remember Santana's hit song....."All my friends drive a Low Rider?" They generally build cars pre 1964 and strive to keep the bodies as original as possible, with all of the factory chrome and trim intact. They also adorn them with every possible accessory available back then..........Appleton spotlights, fog lights, mirrors, compasses, Desert Coolers, etc.

The cars were really well done with fantastic paint jobs in primarily stock appearing colors, and all the chrome trim was replated and straight. Some are airbagged too. I really gained a new respect for these cars and the culture behind them. Yeah, some of the sunvisors and stuff was a little over the top for me, but generally I really liked all the cars. The people who build them spare no expense or effort to make them really well done.

Here are some examples of these "Bombs."

Don