1900 Columbia Model 66
Produced by the Pope Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut, the Columbia Chainless Model 66 was designed for women riders with its swooping low frame tubes. Bicycles played an important role in the Victorian era by giving women the freedom of mobility. The chainless model offered the distinct advantage of "nothing to entangle the skirt, nothing to interfere with the quickest possible mount or dismount from either side." With a fully enclosed drivetrain, the bike was advertised as having "neatness" unlike any other bicycle designed for women. This particular example is in fantastic condition with nearly all of its original parts including era-correct tires and anatomic saddle. The case could be made that no other bike since has more graceful lines.
The Build
Year: 1900
S/N: 2647 Frame: Columbia Model 66 Fork: Columbia single crown Headset: Columbia ball bearing nickel plated Stem: Columbia nickel plated Handlebar: Columbia nickel plated Bottom Bracket: Columbia bevel gear Crankset: Columbia bevel gear nickel plated Pedals: Columbia rat trap Hubs: Columbia barrel nickel plated Rims: 28 inch tubular wood Tires: York "chain link" 28 x 1-1/2 Seatpost: Columbia nickel plated Saddle: Ganford by American Saddle Co. Grips: Cork |
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