1970 Moulton Mk3

Designed by Sir Alex Moulton, built by Raleigh, the Mk3 was the final (some say best) incarnation of the iconic 'F frame', fully suspended small wheeler that captured the cycling world's imagination throughout the 1960's. Featuring a unisex, one size fits all, fully suspended frame plus of course those tiny 16 inch wheels; Mouton reinvented the bicycle as the world had known it.

This video shows my own Mk3 which has just come through a full restoration. All the original steel components were ditched in favour of period(ish) lightweight counterparts and the original 3 speed Sturmey Archer hub gear has given way to a 4 speed. The gear range has been further enhanced by the addition of double sprockets which has resulted in a total of 8 ratios. At 31lbs (14kg) it's still no lightweight, but certainly comparable to most contemporary touring bikes and of course the comfort and handling are far superior.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• moulton
• mk3
• mkiii
• f frame
• bicycle
• bike
• cycle
• suspension
• brompton
• classic
• vintage
• small
• wheels
• folding
• folder
• sturmey
• archer
• mk 3
• 60s
• 70s
• 1960s
• 1970s
• 小さい車輪
• 英語
• 自転車
• モールトン

[frootiloopi]

I know I've got to tell that's a lovely Moulton, but I need to know what tune is that?

[enpeemac]

@frootiloopi Hi, the music is by the Japanese outfit Kyoto Jazz Massive, I'm afraid I can't remember which track I used now though.

[WOODRUFFAPTS]

I just bought a Moulton Stowaway that is supposed to have been built in the mid-60's. I won't actually have it for a week or so, so don't have a serial number or other definitive information, so don't if that is-or-is-not correct.

I plan to restore it and your video has inspired me to get busy on it.

Can you guide me toward any resources for advice, parts, etc.?

Thanks.

[enpeemac]

Hi there, and congrats on your recent acquisition - seems you're about to become a Moultoneer! For help, advice and parts, several resources spring to mind, the most useful being the 'moultonbicycle' yahoo group, 'Moulton Preservation' and the Moulton Bicycle Club - Google will show you the way to each. If you decide to join the later, the huge archive of back issues of 'The Moultoneer' magazine becomes available online.

[Jerrysimonsimon]

Hey there nice to see you Mk3 on youtube :)

Jerry

[enpeemac]

Thanks, I thought it about time we were better represented on youtube - spread the word LOL!

[EZgoN2]

I remember as a little kid back then in the 70s raleigh was the big thing back then along with schwin. Now theres tons of bike manufacturers making anything is sight. The raleigh I had was sold to me in a box for 25.00 big ones, unassembled of course.

[EZgoN2]

Very nice lines on that bike, looked like it was way ahead of its time no doubt. I currently ride a bike-e recumbent and love it. I would never get rid of my bike at any price, but wouldn't mind another.

[goldie103103]

Nice, Ive got a 1950's Raleigh 4 speed bycycle, I suppose il have to get some new tyres for it this year (Aslong as there nor dreaded white wall tyres).