The 80s is best known for its big hair, power anthems, and wild colours. But now, thanks to Raleigh, there’s one craze we don’t have to give up on: BMX.
The biggest name in cycling is re-releasing their iconic Super Tuff Burner, complete with its original features, for the most nostalgic experience you could have on two wheels. We got our hands on this absolute classic, and it doesn’t disappoint.
If you can believe it, the Super Tuff Burner hit store shelves in 1983, the same year that Return of the Jedi topped the box office. In brilliant gold, it was the bike that everyone wanted for Christmas. Now, 35 years later, another Star Wars trilogy is about to conclude, but our BMX dreams will keep on going.
Check it out on the Raleigh official Store here
Now, we know what you’re thinking: riding this BMX was all well and good 35 years ago, but time stops for no one, and none of us look like we did back in 1983! Rest assured that the classic bike is the same, but adjustments have been made to ensure the ride is just as smooth for adults as for kids. The head and seat angles have been sharpened up, and the bottom bracket is much lower. Plus, the steering has been tightened up, so you won’t end up cycling straight into your Christmas tree!
The Super Tuff Burner is a time machine, taking you right back to those good old 80s days, cruising the streets in summer sunsets and seeing who could get the biggest air off the hill at the bottom of the road. But, more than that, it’s a bike that feels agile and responsive. It’s a collector’s item, for sure, but this isn’t something you’ll want to keep sat in a box for the rest of your days – it’s pure, unbridled fun, and you can pick up right where you left off back in the 80s. This is a bike that you can get around on, but transports you where few other bikes can: back to your childhood.
From the twin hole gusset to the looptail rear, 2019’s Super Tuff Burner brings the classic BMX design bang up to date, giving you the iconic 80s aesthetic and ride style without compromising on manoeuvrability – this is definitely an HD remaster, not a remake.
This isn’t the first time that Raleigh has revisited their older and best-loved bikes: they’ve already re-released the Team Aero Pro and the Chrome Aero Pro, but nothing brings to mind the sound of skidding dirt and the smell of fresh grass like the Super Tuff Burner. At a price tag of £600, you can be sure that this is a solidly built piece of kit without super tuff burning up your bank account.
The question is, though: who do you buy this for? Let’s face it, this is the kind of bike that would be perfect for the kids – a genuine piece of 80s history for the next generation – but it’s also too much fun! Way too much fun to let little David/Rachel/Gethyn scuff it up and then leave it in the garage collecting cobwebs. Still, if they’ve seen Strangers Things or E.T., this bike could be a great opportunity to get them out of the house and to connect with something you love.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get your hands on a Super Tuff Burner and find your nearest BMX track – just make sure to wear a helmet!