Information on Columbia Bicycles

Columbia is one of the innovators in the cycling industry. The company, founded in 1877, is one of the oldest existing bicycle manufacturers in the U.S. In 2009, Columbia produces cruiser bikes and mountain bikes primarily targeted at casual cyclists on a budget. Interestingly, the company also produces furniture for schools.

  1. Early Years

    • The formative years of Columbia Bicycles began in 1876 when Albert Pope, the founder, attended the Centennial Exposition. There, he found a two-wheeled device that sparked his interest. He decided to enter the bicycle manufacturing business, and made a wheel costing over $300--an absolute fortune at that time. By 1878, Pope began selling bicycles through a trade catalog, with a big wheel model costing $125.

    Later Developments

    • By the mid 1880s, Columbia Bicycles expanded from their original headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts, by opening offices in New York and Chicago. Several additional models were available by this time, including the Mustang, The Special, the Racer and the Tricycle, as well as some youth models. The Expert model was the first bicycle ridden across the length of the United States, from Boston to California.

    Columbia Today

    • Columbia Bicycles bill their bikes in 2009 as "bike shop quality at affordable prices." They're still based in Massachusetts, although their headquarters has moved from Boston to Westfield. Columbia sells most of their bicycles through the mail, and they come almost fully assembled, making them perfect for novice cyclists who might not know how to build a bicycle from scratch.

    Models

    • Columbia produces a variety of bicycle models in 2009 aimed at entry-level cyclists. The Sierra and the Impulse are included in their off-road series, and both models include suspension forks and 26" wheels. These models are also available with female-specific geometry. The 5032 Comfort Series is also intended for off-road riding, and includes a suspension seat post and adjustable stem. For people looking for a bike to cruise the neighborhood, Columbia makes a 5040 Classic Cruiser. All of the classic goodies are included, such as chrome fenders, a spring loaded saddle, a kickstand and a luggage rack.

    Full Suspension And BMX

    • The Thrust and the Eagle round out Columbia's full suspension lineup. These bikes include 24-speed Shimano drive trains, 26" wheels, durable aluminum frames, and alloy components. The Eagle features a race-ready four bar linkage rear suspension system. The Intruder represents Columbia's BMX offerings, and features wide freestyle tires, 20" wheels, alloy pegs and BMX style handlebars.