‘American Chopper’ could roll into Spokane

The sounds of Spokane might soon include a distinctive – and loud – rumble.

The producers of “American Chopper” might make Spokane one of four stops on a national tour this year. Given the nature of the show’s fans, the event could have significant economic benefits for the city, said Harry Sladich, president of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.

“It’s cultlike, absolutely cultlike,” Sladich said, saying the viewers of the show are “just as rabid as U.S. figure skating fans would be.”

“American Chopper” is a television program that airs on the Discovery Channel and features cantankerous Paul Teutul Sr. and his son, Paul, who customize motorcycles that can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Although producers of the show have yet to make a decision, if Spokane is selected, the cast and crew of about 200 people, as well as a band, would arrive for one weekend, likely in late July, Sladich said.

Last year, a show taped in Tempe, Ariz., brought in 55,000 visitors, he said.

“We would anticipate the same just by the sheer excitement the show generates,” Sladich said. The event would be held at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center.

The event could bring $2 million in revenue to Spokane and fill many hotel rooms for a weekend, Sladich said.

“I’m a motorcycle enthusiast,” he said. “I want to make sure we do everything possible to land this because it would be a real coup.”

Sladich said Spokane will know by Easter whether it is selected.