1983 Morrison Sidewinder in all its glory

This here is an all original Morrison Sidewinder. As far as vintage New Zealand mountain bikes are concerned, it’s about as rare as they come. The Sidewinder was produced in New Zealand from the early 80s to early 90s with the frame, fork and much of the parts made in Hastings from locally sourced steel. Compared with today’s high zoot sleds there’s a lot about it that is very outdated; but upon closer inspection––through tinted pink tea shades––there may be more similarities than not and this particular one has quite a good story attached to it as well.

Fresh decals to come

It was purchased by my father-in-law in 1983 at a Pakuranga cycle and mower shop when the family was living in Auckland, and the extent of its service was on the road for light commuting. It was saved from a skip by my wife for sentimental and historic reasons and I’m glad she did. I’ll let the pics tell the rest of the story.

I’ve had the stem painted as a first step in the resto

Sure, the frame looks like a farm gate but it actually has quite a relaxed head angle and combined with a stubby stem, the largeness of the thing isn’t an issue. Apart from the side-pull brakes which are very much of the time, the Sidewinder is a confident descender and can be tossed around if you grab it by the scruff of the neck.

Massive range out of a fiver

The rear cluster may be only a fiver but check out that range! If the rear derailleur wasn’t about to be made completely obsolete, I for one would support any drivetrain manufacturer who went with fewer cogs but with such a spread, chains would certainly last longer.

Morrison Miyata designed and manufactured in Hastings New Zealand

Overall aesthetics of the bike are ahead of its time too. Colour matched, anodized alloy Araya rims and hubs are usually reserved for custom-built wheelsets these days. Gumwall tyres are making a comeback and the bobbed fenders are the cherry on top.

The Morrison Sidewinder is many things: a vintage mountain bike, a glimpse into New Zealand’s MTB history, and a premonition of what the future would bring. Mostly, it’s just a Rad Bike.