Columbia Bicycle Information

Columbia Bicycle Information
The first American manufacturer of bicycles, the Columbia Manufacturing Inc. started turning out cycles in 1877 under the guidance of Col. Albert Pope. Today, it continues to produce cruisers and mountain bikes at affordable prices.

Mountain Bikes and Cruisers

Current Columbia bikes are available as men's or women's models with 26-inch frames. Mountain bikes come in a range of suspension options and 18 to 21 gears. Classical cruisers and a boys 20-inch freestyle bike are also available.

Anniversary Bike

In celebration of its 125th anniversary, Columbia has created a classical cruiser with deluxe extras, such as a dashboard with a speedometer and a clock. It's available in both men's and women's models.

Where to Buy

Catalogs can be requested through the Columbia Manufacturing Inc. website. Shipped bikes are 90 to 95 percent assembled; riders should be cautioned that improper assembly can result in rapid degeneration of working parts. Assembled bikes are available at large retail stores, such as Sports Authority.

The Good

In reviews on Total Bike Online, riders found the brakes dependable, the suspension adjustable and adequate, the aluminum frame lightweight, and that gears shifted smoothly. At a comparatively low price, this is a good bike for beginners.

The Bad

While Columbia bikes are a good beginner bike, reviewers on Total Bike Online found that they do not respond well to extreme off-road conditions. Several riders complained of parts breaking after longer, harder rides.

Article Written By Kim Brunskill

Kim Brunskill studied creative writing and psychology at Dominican University of California before moving on to acquire a Master of Science in environmental education from Southern Oregon University. She has two creative non-fiction stories published in Stories of Service--anthologies published by and for AmeriCorps Volunteers.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword