Raleigh Winkie

A Childhood Companion

Produced throughout the mid-20th century, the Raleigh Winkie became one of Britain's most recognisable children's tricycles. Built with the same attention to detail as Raleigh's adult machines, many survived decades of use before being passed down through generations of the same family.

This particular Winkie had remained with its owner since childhood, complete with a rear box still containing a collection of rocks gathered many years ago. More than just a tricycle, it had become a small but remarkable time capsule.

The Restoration

Working closely with the owner, the aim was not simply to recreate the original tricycle but to create something personal while preserving its history. The frame was stripped, repaired and refinished in British Racing Green, a timeless colour chosen to give the machine a fresh identity.

Significant corrosion meant extensive preparation was required before paint could begin. Brown pedals and grips were selected to complement the new finish, while an exceptionally rare child-sized Brooks leather saddle provided the perfect finishing touch.

The Result

The finished Winkie retains everything that once made it special, while presenting as a beautifully restored heirloom ready for future generations to enjoy.

Projects like this remind us that significance is not determined by rarity or value. Sometimes the most meaningful restorations are the ones that preserve personal history. This small tricycle may have started life as a child's toy, but it now stands as a treasured family keepsake with many more years ahead of it.

A bicycle with a child seat parked on an empty urban street with tall buildings and a construction barrier displaying artwork and the word 'CURIOUS'.
Close-up of a green vintage bicycle frame on a city street with blurred buildings in the background.
Close-up of a vintage bicycle's handlebar with a brown leather grip, on an empty urban street.
Close-up of a green bicycle front fork and wheel with a blurred urban background.
Close-up of a bicycle's brown leather saddle on the frame of a bicycle, with an urban alleyway and buildings in the background.
A vintage green tricycle with a brown leather saddle seat parked on a city street with buildings and painted walls in the background.
A vintage-style tricycle bicycle with a black frame, brown leather saddle, and large front and rear wheels parked on an urban street with tall buildings and a bright sky.
Close-up of a bicycle's handlebars and brown saddle on a city street, with buildings in the background.
Old, rusted tricycle with a beige frame, worn tires, and a child's seat at the back, parked in a garage next to a cardboard box and a storage rack.
Old rusty wheelchair with a large front wheel and a smaller rear wheel, parked on a concrete surface.
Old, rusty hoverboard with the name 'Matthew' on it, lying on a concrete floor in a storage area.
Close-up of an old, rusty bicycle with a flat tire on an asphalt surface, showing the front wheel, frame, and pedals.

Start your restoration

hello@bellsbicycles.co.uk
0203 355 0108