Vintage ' 69 Raleigh MK1 Chopper 5 Speed (3, 2) Bicycle In ' Flamboyant Green '




Item History & Price

Information:
Reference Number: Avaluer:6791949Color: Flamboyant Green
Country/Region of Manufacture: United KingdomModel: Chopper MK1 3+2 (5 speed)
Brand: Raleigh
Original Description:
Here is a vintage tall-frame '69 Raleigh Chopper in flamboyant green. I bought it new and am the sole owner. It was always stored indoors in a dry, smoke-free basement and garage. The bike is in great condition as can be seen in the pictures. Everything is original - has never had any replacement parts. 
According to the Raleigh Chopper Owner's Club, this color - along with the white decals - was only used in either the MK1 or Sprint models between '69 and '...72. The rear tube is straight as opposed to curved - also more indicative of MK1. It has the Sturmey Archer 5 speed (3+2 configuration). Above the front wheel can be found "The Raleigh - Nottingham England".
Some detailed info:

On the frame at the left side of rear wheel (left rear dropout) is: 0517266. Registration on backplate above reflector mentions #934257. This number specifically refers to the seat design. Research has revealed that the 051 number on the dropout indicates a summer '69 model. The rear hub has a date stamp - 69 7 (despite research showing that 5-speeds supposedly weren't stamped). Since it's obviously a US Market bike, another reason supporting it being an MK1 is that they came with the T-shift. A UK Market MK1 would have always had the round, single-shift. 
Under the frame near the pedals I had found the following:  EGD Design Numbers 934256 and, below that - 9343J4. Unfortunately, while cleaning some of the lettering must have inadvertently gotten washed off, so only parts of the above remain. 
Shifting is as follows: left lever controls 2 speeds (2+4), right lever controls 3 speeds (1+3+5). To ascend gears in order, start with both levers in the rear position. This is 1st gear. Move left lever to the front for 2nd gear. Move right lever front 1 notch for 3rd gear, then another notch for 4th. Move left lever back one notch for 5th. Or it can easily be driven as a 3-speed by just using the right lever. 
A link was repaired on the right side cable chain where it enters the internal gear hub. I have been test driving it and there seems to be no problem. After putting the rear wheel back on, I tested all the gear shifting and noticed that the left side cable linkage (where it enters the hub) may not be operating as it should. Sometimes it seems like there is a difference when shifting from odd to even-numbered gears, and other times not. To be assured of correct and safe operation of all five gears, I might suggest having the entire internal gear mechanism checked, or else it would make a good project for someone handy with these internal assemblies.
At some point while I had it, the left pedal must have gotten broken and then was welded. This repair has never compromised the operation. Tires are also original and are in amazingly good shape for the age of the bike. There is no evidence of either dry rot or leaks. 

Please note this important handling and safety information:
The Chopper, while a memorable and unique design, has some definite issues. It is not as stable as a conventional bike and requires great caution while riding. 
At moderate or higher speeds, the smaller front wheel is subject to speed-induced wobble if ridden too aggressively and too fast. This can lead to a loss of control. From my own experience with it, I strongly suggest NEVER exceeding ANY speed where it feels like the front wheel might be starting to wobble, and certainly the Chopper should not be considered a racing bike. 
After several reported incidents, it was labeled as potentially dangerous in some reports. The long seat lends itself to letting others ride along - another possible source of accidents. It can perform involuntary wheelies readily, again a potential cause of accidents. The position of the gear lever could also contribute to injuries sustained in a crash. The chopper may also not be suitable for long-distance cycling due to the overall design. 
It is the buyer's responsibility to be sure this model is appropriate for a given rider's age, size, and experience. Be careful and be safe. 
As with any bicycle, it's important to monitor the condition of the brake cables and pads, chain, tire inflation, as well as occasionally checking all nuts and bolts.
Also note that the item is currently listed as being sold local pick-up only. The buyer is responsible for all shipping costs and arrangements which might be necessary. I will be available for local pickup or to meet a shipper but I will not package or box the item, nor do any disassembly of the item which might be necessary for shipping. 
All the above being said, since the bike has seen a good amount of interest and hasn't sold, I am now pursuing the option of shipping, where the boxing, etc. would be done by a local bike shop. I will update listing as I work out details for this. 
Upon purchase, please contact me to arrange a payment method. If the item is being picked up rather than shipped, a cash transaction is preferred. 

I have represented the item as accurately as possible with the description and photos. Nothing else is sold as part of the listing other than what is pictured. Please communicate any questions you may have about an item. It is my goal to have buyers be completely satisfied with their purchases. 
Additional details:

Payments and Concerns:
Unless notified that there will be a reasonable delay, I expect payment within 5 days. Beyond that, I will need to open an unpaid item case. Doing so allows me to re-list the item and avoid a 'sold' fee. I want to keep my perfect feedback score and so please contact me with any questions or concerns through eBay. I will reply promptly. I approach any sales transaction in a conscientious manner and would hope for the same from my buyers. 
For this particular item, if not being shipped, a cash transaction would be preferable. 

Returns:
Unless specifically mentioned, there are no returns on purchased items. For those items that I do accept returns on, please notifiy me within 7 days with a description of what is wrong. There is a 14-day return period. Once I receive the item back, examine it, and determine that the item was received by you other than as described, your purchase cost will be refunded through Paypal, but note that return shipping is at the buyer’s expense. I would ask that you cancel the transaction through eBay so that my eBay fees are returned. 




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