The Most Iconic Bicycle Is Back-Raleigh Relaunch The Legendary Chopper
The ultimate 70’s must-have Raleigh Chopper returns.
31st May 2023, Nottingham: Look who’s back! Raleigh, the much-loved British bicycle brand, is excited to announce the relaunch of the iconic Chopper.
Everyone remembers their first Raleigh but perhaps none more passionately than those with memories of the 70s and beyond, with their Raleigh Chopper. It was the bike to have, one full of character, the likes of which had never been seen before - or since.
With original MK2 Choppers still selling for a fortune at auctions today, Raleigh brand fans have been demanding a new Chopper from the Nottinghamshire-based bicycle company for decades. After four years of meticulous research and product development, Raleigh is ready to deliver.
Though bringing the bike into ‘23 has legally required a few minor tweaks, the new Chopper is as close to the original as possible. You’ll still find the one-piece saddle, mid-frame gear shifter, and (slightly lowered) sissy bar.
Raleigh has seen much success from heritage remakes in recent years, thanks to its painstaking attention to detail. This project was no different, with 3D modelling of original MK2 bikes to produce CAD designs for the new frame, many hours spent agonising over the details that make this new bike special, the decals, the CNC head tube, working sprung one-piece saddle, one-piece handlebar and stem, as well as the (UK-made) working 3 speed shifter unit
Lee Kidger, Managing Director at Raleigh said ‘’’The Raleigh Chopper is the most iconic bike Raleigh has ever made, arguably the most iconic bike in British history. Selling millions of units worldwide during the 70’s; the Chopper cemented its place in British culture and to this day evokes a feeling of nostalgia for the era.
This new model is as close as we could get to the original Mk2 released in 1972, while still meeting today's required standards. The Chopper is still seen by the Raleigh team as the jewel in the brand's crown. A legacy to be admired, protected, and never forgotten”.
The limited edition Chopper will be launched in the two original colours; infrared and ultraviolet, available to purchase online from raleigh.co.uk/gb/en on 20th June at 12 PM. A range of compatible spares will be available, with most being back-compatible with the different Chopper models.
Fusion launched the Chopper to media in May securing a clean sweep of coverage across National titles. Read the full case study here