MK 3. Revival: Marks 3, 4 & 5 After being out of production for almost 11 years, a new version of the Chopper, the Mk3, was launched in February 1996. It was available at first in red, then purple then various colours followed including Limited Edition models, in deference to modern safety concerns, adopted a more conventional saddle design to discourage "backies", and dropped the groin-catching gear lever in favour of handlebar mounted gear controls; to commemorate this former feature the Mk3 had a sticker where the lever once was located. Rather than steel, the frame was made from aluminium alloy tubing to make the bicycle lighter. The wheels were still 20 inches at the back and 16 at the front. The Mk3 remained in production until 2004 when it was replaced by the slightly changed Mk4 Mk5, which were only produced and sold in China and never released in Europe or North America and ceased production in summer 2018 and were only sold in Asia, included many editions such as the Ninja, the JPS and the Mod. A 6-speed Shimano derailleur replaced the 3-speed Sturmey Archer hub. See also Chopper bicycle Outline of cycling Raleigh Bicycle Company Schwinn Bicycle Company References External links The Chopper Club Raleigh Chopper Fan Group Cycle types Chopper