Raleigh Chopper response to the Schwinn Sting-Ray, and an earlier attempt, called the Rodeo, which was not commercially successful. The popularity of the Chopper also led to a range of smaller bikes following a similar design theme. These included the Raleigh Chipper, Tomahawk, Budgie and Chippy models, aimed at younger riders. The Chopper's patent was applied for in the US in 1967. The Chopper was introduced at American trade shows in January 1969 but it was not until April 1969 when Raleigh Choppers were available for public to purchase. The bike featured a choice of a single-speed coaster hub, or a 3-speed
American Chopper was moved to the Discovery Channel, the network "American Chopper" originally debuted on. In Canada "American Chopper" started on January 8 on TLC and moved to Saturday nights at 10 p.m. On February 7, 2011, Paul Teutul Jr. announced that "American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior" had been renewed for a second season and would return spring 2011. On November 21, 2012, Eileen O'Neill, president of Discovery Network, announced the show had been cancelled. The final episode aired December 17, 2012. On December 11, 2014, Discovery Channel aired an "American Chopper" special under the title "American Chopper: Shaq Bike", which featured