Restoration Costs
Every restoration is unique. The cost depends on the condition of the bicycle, the level of restoration required and the availability of original components.
Some projects require careful preservation of the original finish, while others involve a full return to factory condition.
Typical Restoration Levels
Preservation Restoration
£500 - £1500
For bicycles where the original finish and patina are preserved.
Typical work may include:
full strip down and mechanical overhaul
careful cleaning and stabilisation of original paint
replacement parts where needed
wheel truing
Best suited to bikes where the originality of the paint is valued and the condition of the paint is fair.
Full Restoration - Minimal Chrome
£1500 - £2000
A full restoration where the frame and components are returned to original factory specification, but with minimal chrome work.
It is most commonly suited to classic road and racing bicycles, where many components are aluminium rather than chrome plated.
Typical work may include:
frame stripping and repainting
decal recreation
full component overhaul
wheel rebuilding
replacement cables, tyres and worn parts
The result is a fully restored bicycle that closely reflects the original factory appearance and performance.
Full Restoration - Heavy Chrome
£2500 - £3000
A complete restoration returning the bicycle restored as closely as possible to its original factory appearance. This level of work typically involves extensive chrome replating alongside frame refinishing and component restoration.
It is most commonly required for traditional roadsters from the 1930s onwards, where many parts — such as handlebars, chainsets, hubs and seat pillars — were originally chrome plated.
Typical work may include:
frame stripping and repainting
extensive chrome replating of original components
decal recreation and lining where required
wheel rebuilding and hub overhaul
full mechanical restoration and replacement of worn parts
The result is a bicycle restored to the appearance and performance it would have had when new.
Raleigh Chopper Restoration
£2500 - £3500
A full restoration tailored specifically to the Raleigh Chopper. These projects typically sit at the upper end of the budget due to the extensive chrome replating required, the cost of sourcing correct replacement parts, and the refurbishment or re-upholstery of the distinctive saddle.
Typical work may include:
frame and fork refinishing
extensive chrome replating of original components
sourcing and fitting correct period parts
saddle refurbishment or upholstery
wheel rebuilding and full mechanical overhaul
The result is a Chopper restored as closely as possible to its original factory appearance and ride.
Let’s start your restoration
If you're unsure which level is right for your bicycle, no problem. We’ll recommend the most appropriate restoration approach.
hello@bellsbicycles.co.uk
0203 355 0108