1894 Columbia ‘Model 34’

The 1894 Columbia ‘Model 34’ had a new frame with a top tube that did not slope upwards as much as the previous year’s models. The front pivoting brake was a novel feature (compare the illustration below).

This example is in good all-round condition, requiring minor work. I’m busy at the moment working on other bicycles, so I’ll advertise it as you see here to give an enthusiast a chance to buy this rare early machine at a cheaper price and do the work themselves. If it has not sold by the time it has progressed to the front of my workshop queue, I’ll finish it off myself and increase the sale price. These are the jobs required –

1. Though rideable, my first step would be to replace the tubeless tyres with ‘green tyres’ which are cushion tyres.. The front wheel has 28 spoke holes, which means it’s an original Columbia rim and hub, as is the rear.

2. If you want the brake to work, it needs a brake lever fabricated and a linkage added to operate the pivoting front paddle brake. The linkage travels down the left side of the steering head, as you can see in a close up photo of the brake further down the page.

I probably would not paint it. This model is a lightweight safety bicycle that’s enjoyable to ride.

To see it at The Museum click here…