The Raleigh Small Wheel was introduced in 1965 to supply the growing market for small wheeled cycles that had been started by Alex Moulton in 1962. Moulton’s cycles had front and rear suspension giving added comfort but were quite expensive to maintain when repairs were required. Raleigh’s response was to do away with the suspension and use fat balloon tyres instead.

The frame was the very fashionable ‘unisex’ design and such that children or adults could ride the same cycle. Features included a Sturmey-Archer front light and 3-speed gears, a detachable holdall designed for carrying into shops and quick-release levers for adjusting saddle and handlebar height. Colours available were ‘Calypso Coffee’ or ‘Tropic Blue’.

Bob French Collection