Paul Teutul Sr. is a renowned figure in the world of custom motorcycles, best known as the founder of Orange County Choppers (OCC) and the patriarch of the Teutul family, whose adventures captivated audiences on the hit reality TV series American Chopper. Born and raised in Yonkers, New York, Teutul’s fascination with two-wheeled machines began early in life, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
Teutul’s journey into motorcycle customization was sparked by the proliferation of custom bikes in the streets and on the silver screen. Motivated by his passion, he started building unique motorcycles for personal enjoyment. In 1999, Teutul turned his passion into a business venture by establishing Orange County Choppers. Alongside his son, Paul Jr., he embarked on a mission to create extraordinary, one-of-a-kind bikes that would gain international acclaim.
The Teutuls’ dynamic family dynamics and the craftsmanship showcased in their creations quickly caught the attention of television audiences, leading to the creation of the hit reality series American Chopper. The show not only highlighted their creative process but also delved into the personal relationships within the family and the challenges of running a successful business.
Teutul’s iconic appearance, marked by his distinctive tattoos, became synonymous with the OCC brand, further enhancing their appeal to motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond American Chopper, Teutul continued to leave his mark on the industry, debuting his new show, Orange County Choppers, on CMT in 2013, further solidifying his status as a legendary figure in the world of custom motorcycles.