![]() ![]() In 1980, the former Carlton factory at Worksop closed and production was moved to a Lightweights facility at Nottingham. In 1979, production of Raleigh 531 butted-tube bicycles reached 10,000 units a year. Two smaller versions, the Chipper and Tomahawk, also sold well. The price was from approximately £32 for a standard Chopper to £55 for the deluxe. Tyres were wider than usual for the time, with a chunky tread on the rear wheel, featuring red highlights on the sidewall. Other differences were the unusual frame, long padded seat with backrest, sprung suspension at the back, high-rise handlebars, and differently sized front (16') and rear (20') wheels. The Chopper featured a 3-speed Sturmey-Archer gear hub, shifted using a top-tube mounted gear lever reminiscent of the early Harley-Davidsonsuicide shifter - one of its 'cool' features. It went on sale in the UK in 1970 and sold well, and was a key factor in reviving the company's fortunes. The Chopper was first available for sale in June 1969 in North America. The bike was the 'must have' item and signifier of 'coolness' for many children at the time. The Chopper was patented in the UK in 1967 and patented in the US in 1968. The Raleigh Chopper was designed by Nottingham native Alan Oakley, though this has been disputed by Cambridge designer Tom Karen.
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