The Raleigh Chopper bike isn’t just a bicycle; it’s a cultural icon that evokes instant nostalgia for many. For those who grew up in the 1970s, and even into the early 80s, the Chopper was the bike to have. Its distinctive design, inspired by motorcycle choppers, set it apart from anything else on two wheels and cemented its place in British popular culture. This iconic bicycle even played a surprising role in inspiring the rebellious comic book character, Tank Girl.
The story begins in the spring of 1990 in Worthing, UK, when comic artist Jamie Hewlett, along with Glyn Dillon and Alan Martin, stumbled upon a local second-hand cycle shop. Amongst the used bikes, a red MKI Raleigh Chopper stood out. Upon inquiring about the price, the shop owner, eager to get rid of the “damn thing,” offered it for a mere thirty pounds. Jamie, without hesitation, bought it. To their surprise, the shopkeeper had more Choppers in the back, leading to Jamie acquiring a MKII, Glyn a purple Ultra Violet MKII, and Alan an Infra Red MKII – all for the same bargain price.
For these grown men, it was a rediscovery of childhood dreams. None of them had owned a Chopper as kids, and the thrill of finally riding these bikes as adults was immense. They rode along Worthing Promenade, jokingly envisioning themselves as modern-day Easy Riders, cruising across America on Harley Davidson choppers – a humorous contrast to their children’s bikes.
This playful spirit led to an adventure. Alan and Glyn took their Choppers to the Sidmouth Folk Festival, and on their return journey, decided to cycle from Salisbury to Stonehenge. This ill-planned trip, on small bikes, uphill, in summer heat, with minimal supplies and Easy Rider soundtrack blasting from a cassette walkman, became a comical struggle. The escapade, ending with a missed train and a night in a field near a sewage works, perfectly encapsulates the kind of “stupid adventures” that often fuel creative inspiration.
And indeed, this very story became the basis for a Tank Girl comic strip. Tank Girl, the anarchic heroine, found herself in England, dealing with the police in her own unique way: by jumping her Raleigh Chopper, topless, over Stonehenge. This blend of real-life absurdity and Tank Girl’s over-the-top antics perfectly captures the comic’s spirit.
The Raleigh Chopper, once a common sight on British streets, has now become a sought-after collectible, with original models fetching thousands. Raleigh themselves have acknowledged this enduring appeal, releasing a MKIV, replicating the MKII model from the Worthing adventure. Alan Martin’s own Infra Red MKII was unfortunately stolen, a common fate for many beloved bikes, but its legacy lives on.
The renewed interest in the Raleigh Chopper, sparked by the MKIV release, inspired Alan Martin to revisit the Tank Girl Chopper story. This led to the creation of a stand-alone Tank Girl comic, “Summer Love Sensation,” celebrating this iconic bike and the humorous tale behind it. The comic includes artwork featuring Jamie Hewlett’s Chopper photos from Worthing beach and even comes with replica Booga “Chopper” stickers, adding to its collectible appeal.
This limited edition comic is a testament to the enduring charm of the Raleigh Chopper bike and its unexpected influence on popular culture. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most whimsical ideas, born from youthful nostalgia and a bit of absurdity, can lead to iconic creations. Whether you’re a fan of vintage bikes, comic books, or simply appreciate a good story, the tale of the Raleigh Chopper and Tank Girl is a groovy ride worth taking.
