Well, you live long enough you will see alot.
I have been tracking OCC since the Jet bike and
when they brought Vinnie on Board. I agree with this was a flaw and
those who posted the comment that it was the group as a whole that was entertaining.

Don’t think the truth will come out for a while, I am sure there were disclosure agreements signed and done. The real truth wont come out for a while. I do think the Teutuls made a calculated mistake. I cant believe he made that comment also.
More like he cant ever be replaced. I just see money has ruin all of them, does anyone remember the show where Jr. and Sr.. had that fallout and he made the comment about how Sr. ego was so inflated after being on the Big Idea with Donnie Deutsch.?

I think Money has affected them to a large degree, but lets not fault someone for being human. Its more a sad commentary. I recall when Cody was pulled under Sr. Arm to keep him out of trouble and he built his first bike name the Cody Project, when it was sold
And Sr. Saw how he was affected , they built the old school project and he in turn gave
That bike to him as a gift. These are the moments in the fan base that solidified the show.
Another example was when the re-roofed Vinnie’s House. This gave them the sense of
Family and made them more identifiable with the public as more than a show that built bikes. Sometimes you have to look where you have been to know where you are going.

The new building is not even in their home town (close by I am sure). I just feel they
Have taken a big risk with this new building. The comments Mikie made about how he wish he was going as well. I know Vinnie walked away with something, I know he was wise enough to get something in writing. What strikes me is Cody bailing out as well.
This is very uncharacteristic of someone who was taken in and given a great break in life.
These types of circumstances show many underlying things that the fan base will never
Really know. I don’t see them doing the things that made the show interesting, like when they made the Santa Bike and went through the town giving gifts to the needy . Those were some of the better show showing the more human side of the group. Does anyone remember Mike Campo, he bailed cause he did not fit in. My Wife, Daughter and I have been loyal fans and will continue to see where this saga takes them. We wont stop watching cause of what’s happen, and I don’t think anyone else will stop either.
I just hope if they do create a show for Vinnie they will put it back to back with OCC so the storyline keeps evolving. Someone made comment Sr. was not looking so well,
Think about it, he just got married, in hock to his eyeballs.. His ego is hurt as he is having key people leave the company.. I hope and pray nothing happens to them. You can hate
Him for making a stupid comment like that.. He know what a contribution Vinnie made,
If he really wanted to keep him and Vinnie wanted to stay, concessions would have been made. Ever notice how Danny wants no part of the show? His steel business must be doing well and he pretty much got the contract to erect the new building, so the money is staying in the family. This is all part of the next phase of the show. It will depend on the fans though.. Does anyone here even own a factory OCC bike or know anyone that does?
Is the quality as good as the theme bikes.. That’s going to be the true test of time for the company even if the show leaves the air. Well that’s enough of a 1st rant.. Off to do yard work.

Alright Vinnie left, he was unhappy there he was entitled to go for his own sanity. I for one highly doubt that he got any of the proceeds yes he was one of the best employeees but he wasn't a founder or an owner I fail to see where everyone things that he should have gotten a cut.. In a perfect world absolutely but it's not and I'm pretty sure Vinnie saw that also.

I for one think that the Teutuls are victims here also there victims of an over zealous marketing team and so so editing..Anyone happen to notice how Mikeys hair went from short to long to short again in that episode..Pretty lame.

I think that was probably the last episode also..

So I'd like to thank the Teutuls and Vinnie for the great ride I'm sad to see them go but they are entiteled to a life outside of American Chopper...

I can explain Mikey's hair (although you're right about the lack of continuity on the editors' part). I read an article online that he donated his hair to Locks of Love.

I agree with tingly - everyone is so upset that Vinnie left, but like I said before, he left on his own. He said himself that he wasn't happy. Good people leave jobs all the time. It happens, you move on, the world keeps spinning.

As far as Senior, I also have to agree that the comment was a silly one -but my first thought (after the inital shock) was he was a victim of editing. I am sure he said more than that - but the powers that be knew that the comment could set off a lot of people. And so it has. If you notice this board, it's been on fire since Thursday night. before that, it was gettin' on the slow side.

I am sure that whatever happened, both Pauls understand the contribution Vinnie gave.

Regardless, I'll still watch until the last episode. I'll still wear my OCC t-shirt and I'll still read the boards. But that's just me.

Vinnie's new shop.

http://www.designbyjoyce.com/vinnie/links.html

I'm in full agreement with Jen. Although I think Sr could have been mad when he made the statement; he also could have said, "Everyone is replaceable but Vin is REALLY going to be hard to replace."

As far as Vin becoming a part owner of the company, just think about this: We are supposed to believe that Jr is a 10% owner of OCC! Sr would not have a company today without Jr! He would never have gotten to the point where he was eligible for a TV program except for Jr. And we are told Jr owns 10% of the company!

If this is true, then Sr probably thinks Vin is ungrateful for the things he has given him, the places Vin has been able to go and events he has been able to participate in. And for the fact they considered him "family" so they could take advantage of him. Go figure!! But some people do think that way.

I was shocked to see Vinnie leaving OCC. This must have been coming for sometime. My read on this is -- and I do believe Vinnie should just say whats on his mind and tell the truth. The truth I think is that he was hoping that the PAUL Sr. would have given him a piece of the pie. You know what? Justifiably so!! Paul Sr. this comments for you, You never have people working for you -- you have them working with you, and Vinnie did this and watch yoy folks reap all the benefits. You are the owners but you should have shared the wealth especially considering there is enough to go around. On another note I surely would have shared the wealth with Vinnie before that lazy idiot Mikey. Why families put up with members like this is beyond all sound reason.

Good luck Vinnie and you will come out on top in the long run.... history has always shown this to be true.

Paul Sr. If I were you I would get Vinnie back and give hime a percentage of the company! Remember you can't take it with you!

I'd say it is past the point of no return as far as Vinnie returning to OCC. He found workspace, and he has started his own business. Cody is also going to be working with/for him.

You have a point.... on a different though, you know I have seen this many many many times where a few people get together and build something cool.Why it can't be a benefit to everyone involved is beyond me. What I have never understood is why people can't share a pie.... funny - 10% OF A FEW MILLION DOLLARS A YEAR is a couple of hundred thousand but 100% of nothing is still nothing.

OCC will continue for sure but like many entities like it before and obviously after. It will be a little different! Time will tell as usual if people will continue to watch.

clm8753 said:

[quote]Vinnie's new shop.

http://www.designbyjoyce.com/vinnie/links.html[/quote]

How many times are you going to post the same thing?

I've been a fan from the beginning and am sad not only to see Vinnie leave but the attitude shown him when he left. As some have stated before, he was the soul of the show. The show and the Teutels have made a big mistake. I'm not sure I want to watch them anymore, if that's the way their best is going to be treated.

LOL I am done bikerhart.

In the article about Vinnie it said something about them shorting his pay? Can you imagine if that is true? These jerks make tons of money while doing the least amount of work possible. Then they short Vinnies pay? Money he needs to feed his little kids. While they waste money left and right.

What comes around goes around. Karma can be a beotch!

Where can I buy some Sr. and Jr. dolls and a handfull of needles? They make me sick!

What article?

Also, what do you really know about everyone else's finances, especially the Teutuls? Just like the rest of us, you only see what is shown on the show.

Do you see through my eyes? You don't know who I am or what I see. I am the distant Teutal relative, I am the current or not so current OCC worker, I am the neighbor down the street, I am the customer, I am the OCC fan, I am the X- OCC fan, I am the iron worker, I am the ex-girlfriend, I am the tractor trailer driver, I am the log cabin builder, I am the bullmastiff breeder, I am the friend of a friend, I am the dentist, I am the fireman, I am the soldier, I am the motorcycle rider, I am a American and I can see.

Although this is speculative, it has some basis in fact based on discussions with some quasi-reliable sources: OCC is building a new world headquarters and franchising. So much of this is built upon the "persona" created by TLC. In a less primogeniture-based micro-society, Vinnie would be a shoe-in for partnership or fiduciary remuneration substantially greater than was offered. His skills do not end at motorcycle fabrication and car building, he is a TV personality. Although he and his family are essentially set for quite a long-time, his ability to profit further from syndication, DVD sales, franchising, and merchandising is stymied because blood is thicker than water. It all boils down to 4 of the 7 deadly sins: avarice, pride, envy, and wrath. I was extremely disappointed with the editing of the "Vinnie's departure" show, as his departure was treated as an afterthought and his contribution to OCC trivialized.

I don't think anyone in that family will suffer America forgets to easily.Look at Hollywood and the bonehead moves that should have cost people careers and fortunes.And if you believe the hype no one shops at WalMart, but their parking lots are full.Bill Clinton makes a fortune speaking and I am sure fills every hall.Everyone in the world hates Bill Gates and he sure feels it. Not to mention the pseudo bikers who wear an OCC t shirt and think the world stares in wide eyed amazement and says "look a real live biker." Throw in a window sticker for their truck and presto an instant 1%er.So before we organize a fund raiser I think they can buy their next meal.Just a thought from an old man.

I just joined this chat group yesterday. I had never had anything to say about the show before.
I have watched for years and I always loved it.
vinnie if you read this you are a very important part of the show. I can not see how they can build a bike with out you. You have put up with alot of crap I dont think I could of lasted as long as you did. I wish you all the luck in the world and God bless you and your family.

Lets face it, Vinnie will be alright. He`s got crazy skillz. I am sure he left with something on the back burner. Hopefully his on show. Paul Jr. has an eye for design, but then again who doesn`t. One thing is for sure he can`t do electrical or mechanical and as far as Paul Sr., stay away from the sissy bars!Personally I prefer Exile cycles, now those are bikes.

sickosr said:

[quote]Do you see through my eyes? You don't know who I am or what I see. I am the distant Teutal relative, I am the current or not so current OCC worker, I am the neighbor down the street, I am the customer, I am the OCC fan, I am the X- OCC fan, I am the iron worker, I am the ex-girlfriend, I am the tractor trailer driver, I am the log cabin builder, I am the bullmastiff breeder, I am the friend of a friend, I am the dentist, I am the fireman, I am the soldier, I am the motorcycle rider, I am a American and I can see.[/quote]


So, what do you know really know about everyone elses's finances, especially the Teutuls?

Biker, I think we may have another Paulie 2.0 here. Always in the know. Start another thread on our board

He was a big part of why OCC became popular. They really should have made him a partner.

Most likely he was unhappy for the reasons that most people have said here, not seeing family, doing all the work etc.

When somebody is unhappy, they leave. But when somebody, unhappy or not, leaves that fast without that much notice after a big discussion which he most likely had with Paul Sr. etc., it probably came down to them not giving him what he deserved. And since he is so tight lipped about it, it is much more than just being the normal unhappy.

In one swift move by the Paul Sr. and OCC, they have not only managed to lose Vinny, but they have shown the fans (the people who made them rich) that they care more about money than friendship. With that move, they have sealed their fate on TV and their business. A big brand new building, then pissing off your best man and half the reason why the show is popular?

Bye Bye OCC. You just shot yourself in the foot by being greedy and not really seeing what made your wallets fat in the first place. Not your fighting, it was ALL the core people, and a huge piece of that was Vinny.

Perhaps Vinnie can nod yes or no here. The production of American Choppers has yielded the Teutul's piles of money, yet Vinnie and the other non-family staff have not received any royalties from it. Even dysfunctional Mikey has received enough money for the ordinary guy to retire on. I'd get fed up too and leave for greener pastures.

I would also like to express some of my thoughts on Vinney leaving.

I was shocked when they said he was leaving during the show on Thrusday. I was angry also, not that Vinney is leaving, but the way it was done. This is my point, why can't the producers of these shows think that us the viewers have enough sense to understand when they tell us that one of the stars of a show is leaving. They did the same exact thing on Miami Ink with Kat, they even pretended it was a big argument, then within two seconds of the show ending there is an ad for her LA Ink show. I don't know, maybe its my fault for not coming to these forums. I have been checking these out since Thursdays show and it seems you guys know stuff without it being on the show. Example, someone here said that Pual Sr. got married, I didn't know that if it is true. I didn't hear anything about Cody leaving the show either but according to this sight he is going with Vinney. I always liked Cody, but he was different after he came back from school in Fl. I also think the show is on a down hill coarse. It is to automated now, (if you will). I mean you have it designed on the computer and, I don't know, its seems to simple for them now. It seems there is less to do. The show is almost getting boring and they are all becoming the same.

I to have seen every show, I have some on DVD, It is not as much fun to watch now, maybe i have changed, but I think the show has changed, Maybe it just got to big. They say it was number one in the ratings, not sure that is still true or not, i haven't heard.

I think it is sader that Cody is leaving, if he is. They said on the early shows he was hired to mow grass and run the weed eater. But he became part of the show and did the Cody Bike and the Old School Bike and he really became part of it all, I thnk he had a bigger part even befor Mikey came on board.

I don't know how these shows work, maybe there is some anger her or they can't because of contracts or something, but you would think they would of had a big party and had a big send off for these guys. I always liked Paul Sr., and Paulie and Mike and the rest of the them, but not so sure now, I don't think it was right to just say "Everyone can be Replaced" I hope Paul remember that "Every Show can be replaced too. Doubt of Pual cares now, I think they all have enough money now. Did you notice that Vinney pulled into Mikey's house in a Vette, it was fun to watch the vichaels change and the houses change as they became richer and richer. I was shocked to see Sr. house and his car collection now. And we the fans help make these guys rich, by watching the show and buying their products.

I don't know, they should of had a better send off.

I also checked out Vinneys web sight. Looks like he is doing ok to. Building looks real nice.

I also sent a letter to the show, said i wouldn't watch the show again. I don't think I will, but I know I am going to miss it very much.

To sum it up, maybe they can let us the veiwers know when someone is leaving. When you look at the end of this weeks show it was lame what they did, and Mikey saying he wished he could leave too. Why Mike all you do is show up cut some jokes look funny and make lots of money.
But anyway Discovery, I think you dumped on us fans the way this was done.

One more thing, I am not mad at Vinney, maybe he can become a big success and maybe he will replace American Chopper on Thursday nights.

Think i said enough.
Hope it makes sense.
Thanks for you time.
Snotwackers

I just got an E Mail from a friend that is on this board. Chewed me a new a$% for defending the Teutuls. I am in no way, NO WAY, doing that. Vinnie got shafted beyond words. He was treated like a joke , not the loyal,trusted,FAITHFUL friend and employee he was.1 and 2 should be beaten every morning for a year and than be punished, but they won't, sad truth. All I am trying to say is as mad as we are and as much as we want them to they will probably suffer no financial loss. I hope they realize what a valuable portion of their fan base they lost.....US

Nobody knows why he left so its a waste of time discussing it.

People seem to think vinnie should have had a cut...why? He knew the company he was going to work for was being filmed, he had the option to work there or not to. Paul Sr was the owner he was the reason they wanted to make the show he gets the money. If the show becomes successful and he sells more bikes then Vinnie or anyone else who works there aren't entitled to any. If Sr wants to increase their wages fair enough. But its down to Sr no-one else.

I know Junior got paid well but he did design the bikes that made them famous so the fact Jason now designs the bikes should he get more money?...no they were already established because of sr and jr, Jason was brought into design bikes thats his job and so he gets a wage nothing more.

We saw the fights between jr and sr about money 'You've got a pretty nice house for what I did' - You can understand why Senior gave Jr a part in the business he was the main reason they became successful in the first place.

sleeper67 - Nice friend, are you not allowed to have an opinion? I wouldn't worry about it. I agree with southpark, it's a waste of time to dwell on it. As I said before, Seniors comment was silly, but I still think it had more to do with editing. I am positive that more positive things were said and it wound up on the cutting room floor. Like so many other threads, this one's 15 minutes are up. The topic is gettin' old. I also think everyone needs to remember, this happened months ago (like I keep saying, I feel like a broken record), this is old news to them.

I agree Jenninija with you. This topic is getting old.

[quote]Vinnie got shafted beyond words. He was treated like a joke ,[/quote]

How so??

Anybody think Biker Build Off is coming back {changing subject stealth like haha}

I'd like to thank Discovery and TLC for the worst last minute editing I've ever seen. It's obvious that Vinnie leaving was unexpected. I for one would love to see what was left on the cutting room floor.

JR left the company briefly (ten dollars to the person that names the episode) I think Vin deserves his shot at his own glory. Hell in Hollywood you can never say never. In a couple years you may very well see things get patched up.

I just hope American Chopper doesn't get as crazy American Hotrod when it comes to holding on to workers. Hotrod couldn't keep most guys a full season.

Vin good luck. We all miss you already. Hope to see you back on TV soon. Keep us posted.

The Discovery Channel needs to drop OCC from its schedule. The way Vinnie was treated by JR was irreprehensible. He treated Vinnie like a kid who's only job was to sweep out the shop and pick up the garbage. Do "I" Need to watch this show? Hell no!!!! Apparantly some of the Teatul's have gotten way to big for their britches. I just watch something else

Agreed jenninija he was out of line but we all speak out of turn sometimes and he has written to apologize. I may have you to thank for that because it came after your post, thank you. Maybe I was to stealthy,wasn't it great when Mikey and Vinnie built a bike together, do you think Biker Build Off will be back, do you think AC will be back,what do you think of any thing else come on folks.

Unfortunately, with what fans were left with on the last show the topic of conversation is not going to change. Vinnie was the Norm to JR's Bob Villa. When a Cog like that leaves a show like this of course the topic for a few "Months" will be that person leaving. Editing has made the whole Vinnie leaving a mess and until it is explained away that is what the topic of conversation will be. The whole situations sucks; I would rather be talking about the Bikes or Mike being funny but the way it was brushed off at the end of the show look baaaaad. At least American Hotrod showed the reasons behind most of the people leaving (whether or not that was a mistake will be debated), Chopper editors screwed the pooch. That is the bottom line.

Hey, no problem. Glad I could help

Not sure if biker build off will be back. I do know why OCC doesn't do the build off. Some one asked them that at the live event that I went to and their response was, "We have our own show, so it would not be fair. Plus, we have a committment to our customers".

I personally think this will be the last season for AC - but never say never. I think it would be better served to be picked up by another channel. A friend of mine mentioned that it would be better if it were picked up by the speed channel. I think TLC is the kiss of death for certain shows. Not all shows, but for a show like AC, when it follows a day schedule of bringing home baby and a baby story - it just doesn't fit.

I think the OCC guys know this. And also, put yourself if their shoes, they have been doing this for how long? When is enough, enough. I personally would get burned out. I hope all goes well with their new shop and I can't wait to see it. I'm thinking of going to the opening in Feb. We'll see. I'm still a fan regardless of what happens.

Vinnie was "shafted beyond words"? Umm no, I see no evidence of that. Taken for granted, possibly, but hardly shafted, at least not from what was shown on tv.

And just because Vinnie was a great worker is not reason enough to give him part ownership of the business. I own two businesses and have some terrific workers, but no way would I make them part owner of either company. I pay them well and give them nice bonuses, but part ownership..no way.

Sr. is such a big blowhard that he probably doesnt give a darn about what we think of him or the show, he is a bully and an egomaniac. He loves to intimidate people with his temper and his command presence. Only his dog loves him?

People...it's just a show. What we see is what the editors want us to see. Did they want to make a stir with Vinnie leaving? Yup, and they did quite well in doing that. Remember, the people who edit and produce American Chopper are also the same people who edit and produce Survivor.

TLC better give vin his own show. Bikes and cars would make a killer show...since jesse james doesnt do monster garage any more ):

OCC might as well go back to ordering from the catalogs and assembling the bikes once rick leaves. Back to the basics lol, cuz thats all they will be able to do!

It is just a show and I think we all kind of lost track of that. When I said Vinnie was shafted I didn't mean to upset people, and I never said he deserved part ownership. However he didn't get[on screen don't start typin yet] the send off he deserved. And that includes and probably especially the production company. So with that call me Switzerland I no longer have an opinion about any of it. FIRE AT WILL

westcoast1 said:

[quote]OCC might as well go back to ordering from the catalogs and assembling the bikes once rick leaves. Back to the basics lol, cuz thats all they will be able to do![/quote]

One of the admins over at the fanclub verified that Rick is not going to be quitting anytime soon.

I think Senior's words were taken out of context when he spoke those words it sounded more like matter of factly, like he's been replaced himself he knew the feeling..I didn't hear any malice in his voice..

He's still aces in my book, he's done a lot and I admire him and the Teutels for it.

[quote]One of the admins over at the fanclub verified that Rick is not going to be quitting anytime soon.[/quote]

Uhhhh, do you honestly think he would tell THEM if he was planning to leave until he was ready to give notice?

(Rick) "BTW, just wanted to let the world know, I'll be quitting soon. Can't give you an EXACT time, but just wanted EVERYONE on the internet to know that I won't be here too much longer."

Maybe you can ask the "fan club admin" if Bin Laden told him if he is planning any more attacks any time soon???????

All TV shows are basically fan based, I was a fan of Vinnie because I was a welder/fabricator at one time. He was the right guy for the shows beginning for sure,I hope he does well and I will watch for him in some future show. As for Cody he needs to leave there, he is getting picked on with malice not the usual shop pecking order.
Good luck Vinman. OCC you are the bad guys right now and I hope you recover soon.

If you got not fans, you got not viewers .. if you got no viewers you got no advertisers .. if you got no advertisers you got no show.

buuuuuzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz SWAT!!!

Well, I'm new as a poster, but I've been watching the show since its beginning. It's now finally time to register here and present a different perspective here.

I think everyone should lighten up and remember that: "Every coin has two sides, of which only one side is visible at a time." I think that's what is happening here. People can't see both sides, so they take their best guess.

I've really enjoyed Vinnie and the "regular kinda guy" persona he has conveyed in the midst of an intense environment. What's not to relate to? Heck, Vinnie has certainly added a lot to the show, maybe even to the point where he had become something of a fixture on the show. That's what makes his leaving so difficult for so many people. I, for one, will miss watching him do his thing in such a dedicated way.

That being said, it's unfortunate (or maybe fortunate) that we in "TV Land" are not able to know or understand what goes on off camera or behind the scenes. Afterall, what right do we have to know anyhow? It's Vinnie and the folks at OCC that have to live with the decisions they make and the things they do, not us. As such, we should wish nothing but the best for everyone involved, no matter where that takes them.

As for me, I'll keep watching the show for it's entertainment value. (Yes folks, it's entertainment!!!) Then, as I often do, I'll go out and climb on my more humbly built motorcycle and go cruisin', all while dreaming of what I could do to take my bike up a notch. Afterall, I watch AC, not because it's a soap opera, but because I love motorcycles and the people who work with them and ride them.

I doubt that I'm alone in this respect. So, regardless of what anyone feels, I wish nothing but the best for Vinnie AND the Tuttle's. They've provided me with some pretty good TV viewing over the years, and I for one am very grateful.

I know we all agree that this topic is getting old but, it's obvious losing Vinnie aka "Pincher" creates a big loss for the show and for all his fans. I think he's a talented fabricator and mechanic, plus his personality makes him very likable. So I know he will do well on his own or on his own show. I do believe and I don't like to trash the Teutles, he sees things are different now then when he first started at OCC 5 years ago. I believe he misses working with Paulie and so much is placed on his and Rick's shoulders now. To make it more difficiult, he and Paulie have been friends for a long time and there's his friendship with Mikey. When Vin came on board, he and Paulie "clicked" and spent all lot of blood sweat and tears creating bikes. Now it seems Paulie is off visting some celebrity. I'm not saying the Teutles don't deserve fame and yes the editors do put the show together to make it interesting so we miss a lot that goes behind the scenes, but from what I can see, it was definitely time for Vin to move on and be happy at what he wants to do. I will still watch the show but with less optimism if it will be worth watching. If Rick goes, I'll probably stop watching all together. I wish you well Vin, you are not replacable in my book.
MKDJ_0602

What makes people think Vinnie wants a show?
He's not an actor, he's a mechanic!

I agree with Paul sr. Anybody can be replaced. Also Paul Sr. So can any show, any yours was just erased from my dvr recording. Now the t shirt I bought I will use as a rag next time I change my oil.