STOP THE PRESS!!!

Chopper, the iconic 1970s bicycle brand is set to make a comeback as maker Raleigh relaunches it in April for a limited period of time. With its red lined tyres, Chopper was the essential bike of the 70s. And fans of the bike (affectionately known as 'The Hot One') will be pleased to know that he bike's original design by Alan Oakley, the then Chief Designer at Raleigh, remains largely unchanged on the new version. Available only in the original Infra Red, the materials in the bike's production are taken from the original Chopper concept, even using the original tyre mould from the 70s. Chopper junkies will instantly recognise the legendary 'ape-hanger' handlebars, elongated seat, back rest, chrome seat hoop and mud guards that were instrumental to the bikes radical design. Previously positioned on the cross bar of the bike, the gearshift has been moved to the handlebars to comply with modern safety standards. The first 2004 Choppers will be limited edition with a personalised plaque featuring the production line number, where the gearshift once was. The Limited Edition Choppers will retail at £249.99, all others will retail at £199.99. Loz Cox, Chopper Product Manager at Raleigh says: "Change in the bike market and demand for retro products like the VW Beetle and Mini Cooper sparked the idea for the introduction of the new Chopper. The new Chopper has been restyled for the new century and a new generation of kids who are looking for a highly stylised bike unlike any other on the market."