The first Moulton Bicycle, was launched at Earls Court in late 1962. After several years of research and development, the classic F-Frame Moulton was launched.
This was a radically new bicycle, whose distinguishing features were step through frame, small wheels, high pressure tyres, and rubber suspension. It could carry a load on the the rear and optional front carriers.
The initial line-up consisted of 5 models - Standard, Deluxe, Speed, Stowaway and Safari.
The reaction to this new bicycle was overwhelming. Sales were strong, and press coverage was very positive.
Alex Moulton was keen to demonstrate the superiority of the Moulton bicycle over the classic. In December 1962, John Woodburn broke the Cardiff-London record on a Moulton Speed.
Despite having built a new factory at Bradford-on-Avon, demand was such that much of the production was outsourced to a BMC factory at Kirkby.
There were some quality control issues at the BMC plant, and several design improvements were introduced around 1965, including stronger straight rear forks, pressed front forks, and a traverse seat tube.
While these features generally characterise a Series 2 machine, the features were not all introduced at the same time, so some machines exist with a combination of Series 1 and Series 2 features.
Raleigh initially ignored the Moulton Bicycle, then they tried to compete with it, with the inferior, but cleverly marketed RSW 16. Finally, in 1967, Alex Moulton sold out to Raleigh, in what he described as a "distress sale".
Raleigh consolidated the Moulton range, reducing the range of models, and continued to sell the RSW.
Meanwhile Alex Moulton, who had been retained as a consultant to Raleigh, continued to improve the Moulton Bicycle, and in 1970, the Mk III was launched.
Hi there, trying to find out more about an old moulton bike . I have researched but don’t have enough information on the value it. I believe it is an early model moulton stowaway made for Australia by malvern star. I have looked on eBay and can’t find any or sale. if you can send me some links as to where I can find more information I would appreciate it.
Thanks
Hi, send an email to sandw AT moultoneers DOT info for valuation advice.
Dear all,
My Father passed away and we are now trying to find out anything about our Purple Moulton Midi:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Moulton-Midi-in-Purple-/111141446484
Thanks,
Is this bike an original Moultion.
a few pics to help identify models wouldnt hurt ! 😉
hello,live in Norway,and need some help,guiding, have an 1966 moulton stowaway,and have problems with the front suspension,it is tight and fine up and down but not sideways..what seems to be the problem,do i need som new parts.. the bike is not a wreck ,and still have the tires from 66.
Any usefull hint would be great.
could be the bearing top or bottom of the forks have broken these ca be replaced quite easily separate ball bearings where used
249416
If I was to guess this serial number would indicate a 1962 model built on the 49th week of the year (early december) and it was the 416th bike made.
Does this sound right?
Cheers
I guess you don’t have that bike anymore? Was it a red billiard cue Deluxe model, sold by Stubberfields Eastbourne? only I appear to have a bike bearing the same frame number.