Categories / Cars and Bikes, eBay watch

eBay watch: Raleigh Chopper mk2 and mk3 bicycles

Chopper

If you want to relive your childhood and cruise the streets on an original Raleigh Chopper, you can do that quite easily with a few quid and a visit to eBay. Indeed, there's a large number of models and spare parts constantly for sale. But we'll be looking at Raleigh Chopper mk2 and mk3 models, both of which are for sale as part of the same lot.

The image shows off the subtle differences between the two – seat and handlebars most obviously, the mk 2 being the one you probably remember with most fondness. Like all original  Choppers, they are getting more sought-after by the year, so you don't get perfection unless you pay top price.

These two offer above average condition, but do need some work – a good polish, possible re-chroming of the mudguards, a small rip in one of the seats and the odd scratch. But nothing to make you run a mile. However, you might when you see the price – currently at £280. If that's a bit rich, check out those other auctions for something cheaper, but probably involving more restoration work.

Find out more at the eBay website

Categories / Cars and Bikes, Men's Fashion

Woolistic vintage replica cycling jerseys and training tops

Cycling

When it comes to the gear, is there a cooler sport/pastime on the planet than cycling? If the bikes don't get you, the clothing will, especially these Woolistic vintage replica cycling jerseys.

Woolistic gear is designed in Switzerland and made in Italy, offering up classic cycling designs of years gone by – the Molteni spring wool trainer on the left dates back to the late 60s and is a single-ply knit, made of Merino wool. On the right is the Faemino out of Italy, which dates from around 1970, again Merino wool and like all in the range, sold in limited numbers.

Getting them isn't easy though. In the US, check out Vintage Velos or in the UK, Bromley Video carries some of the designs. The price of these handmade tops is around £145.

Find out more at the Woolistic website

Categories / Cars and Bikes, eBay watch

Ebay watch: John Cooper 30th Anniversary Mini

Mini

Here's something that could prove a real steal on eBay – this John Cooper 30th Anniversary Mini, dating back to 1990.

The car is numbered (141), finished in British racing green and has relatively low mileage of 57,000. Indeed, the current owner has done just 200 miles on the last eight years. It also packs a kit courtesy of Jan Odor of Janspeed engineering that boosts the BHP and torque – see the listings for the technical side of that.

Described as being in 'excellent condition', the car is currently on eBay at £500. For a collector's car in good nick, that looks like one to watch.

Find out more at the eBay website

Categories / Cars and Bikes, eBay watch

eBay watch: 1960s Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Coupe

Merc1

A stunning car – but the Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Coupe comes at a price.

Dating back to 1968, this particular model has recently been restored to what's been described as a 'very high standard' – and it shows. Mixing an ivory finish with a chocolate brown interior, it packs all the period detailing, as well as a 2,195cc engine, automatic transmission, leather seats, power steering and an AM/FM radio for your entertainment.

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Categories / Cars and Bikes, eBay watch

eBay watch: 1970s Rolls Royce Silver Shadow

Roller

In the 60s and 70s, driving round in a Rolls Royce said everything about you – that you'd made it and had cash spilling out of every pocket. Since then, luxury cars have become more commonplace, but the 'Roller' is still a car that turns heads. And as this Rolls Royce Silver Shadow shows, it's not out of your reach in 2010.

This is a vintage 1975 model, previously used as a wedding car and probably could be again. Just spend a few quid on a peaked cap and you're away. Or you could simply be a 'show off' and take if for a spin round town, although that 6,750cc engine might need more than one fuel stop along the way, as well as a small bank loan to fill the tank.

Just over 100,000 miles on the clock (which isn't bad), with an AM/FM stereo, CD player, cruise control, leather seats, power-assisted steering, power seats, power windows and all the luxury you require thrown in. Check the small print for the full lowdown and if you like what you see, the bidding is currently at just £2,100.

Find out more at the eBay website

Categories / Cars and Bikes, Design and Interiors, Homeware

Liberty of London for Target range

Target1

It would be pretty unimaginable for Liberty of London to do a range for Tesco in the UK for example, but it doesn't seem to be an issue to team up with a large retailer in the US. In this case Target, which will be the proud recipient of Liberty-designed home essentials.

It's a shame it doesn't offer them in the UK, as we suspect most of these designs would be snapped up, as they almost certainly will be across the Atlantic. Classic Liberty prints will be used on bedding, gardening tools, planters, piggy banks, lamps, candles, storage boxes, ceramic and melamine dishes, and best of all, the bicycle pictured above.

Prices are good too, with most accessories selling for under $10 or $20,a quilt is yours for $70 and that beach cruiser bike is a very tempting $200. See over the page for more images and if you happen to be coming to the UK in the coming months, try and fit a bike in your suitcase will you?

Target website

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