Raleigh Chopper rear wheel, featuring a red line around the sidewall. In 1969 the Raleigh Chopper was launched in the UK market this was a triple launch for Raleigh, with the Chopper branded as THE HoT oNE, alongside the Moulton Mk3 (The Smooth One), and the RSW Mk3 (The Dolly One). The Chopper bike was sold as a "must have" item and signifier of "coolness" for many children at the time. The Mk 2 ("Mark 2") Chopper was an improved version sold from 1972. It had the rarely-purchased option of five-speed derailleur gears, and the gear lever shifter changed from a knob
Chopper bicycle to make their own. Arguably, a bought 'chopper' is not a 'chopper' at all, because no chopping was done—only a commercial transaction. There are various cycling groups and clubs around the world that feature chopper bicycle riders, such as the Choppercabras, Chopaderos, DHC Den Haag Cruisin', Freakbike Militia, Cranksters, SCUL, and C.h.u.n.k. 666. Such groups encourage all chopper bicycle riders to join them on rides celebrating different events and holidays. Because the frame of a chopper bicycle and a chopper motorcycle can be strikingly similar, and of a high enough quality/durability, it is relatively common to have an empty space,