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1886 Columbia Ordinary
Before chain drives and different sprockets sizes, the wheel size determined the gearing. Bicycles like this were bought in different wheel sizes to accommodate a person's leg length. This bike has a 54" wheel. Getting on and off is a bit of a challenge the first few times, but once you're on, it's a joy to ride. The fun does come with some risk, the term "take a header" was originated by the danger of going over the handlebars on these bikes. The Ordinary was about $100 new which, when adjusted for inflation, is equal to approximately $2000 today.
     


E-mail: rydjor@wolf.co.net
Phone: 507-433-7571 or 1-800-575-7571
Address: 219 N. Main St., Austin, MN 55912
Copyright © 2000 Rydjor Bike Shop Last Updated: December 22, 2004