1970s Decline and Closure

Cotton production swung away from road models towards an all-competitions programme. However, the factory suffered when Villiers withdrew their engines, and Cottons then had to seek engines abroad. The CAVALIER trials bike used an Italian Minarelli engine, but only five bikes were being made a week. Cotton's kit bike business was also hit by government legislation.

Cottons moved to Stratton Road in 1970 where, in addition to motorcycles, they produced the Cotton Sturdy, a three wheel works truck. During the next ten years they moved premises several times in and around Gloucester before finally moving to Bolton in 1978. They produced a good 250 cc racing machine fitted with a ROTAX engine. However, they were unable to continue due to financial difficulties and closed down in 1980.

In the 1990's, following a series of successful exhibitions mounted at the Gloucester Folk Museum, the Cotton owners club was formed. The club has an international membership and holds an annual summer rally at the Museum.