in the 1890s, Colonel Pope established a pattern of buying up every patent possible. As a result, Columbia bicycles featured the most innovative designs. Half a century later, the Compax Paratrooper follows this same tradition, and the bike itself does not disappoint. The adjustable handlebars are reminiscent of ‘Kelly Adjustables’ from around the turn of the century (mostly used on Racycle bicycles). Another nice design touch is its ‘gothic’ fenders, and I like its minimalism too: no lamp brackets or accessories pictured in the catalogue illustrations.
This Compax is in unrestored original condition, with nice red paintwork and its original decal on the down tube. The tyres are a little cracked but are functional, and the surface rust on the brightwork needs polishing out. It folds easily and is ready to ride and display.
The diagram below illustrates how this bicycle folds …except that ‘America’s first folding bicycle’ does not actually fold at all – actually, it breaks into two parts. Nevertheless, it is a neat design and ideally suited for its target market. Later folding bicycles were, of course, lightweight machines, while this is medium weight. What I particularly like about the Compax Paratrooper is that it is the only ‘folding’ balloon-tire style bicycle.
View in the Online Bicycle Museum
BICYCLE COLLECTORS CURATED ONLINE AUCTION, Spring 2025
This Timed Auction is live from 14th of March 2025 2pm to 14th of April 7pm, 2025. Highest bid wins.
NO BUYERS or SELLERS PREMIUM.
THE RESERVE IS THE START PRICE + BUY-IT-NOW OPTION.
INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY: NO PACKING FEES.
BIDDING INCREMENTS: Up to £1000 = £10. Over £1000 = £50. Over £2000 = £100
IT’S A CURATED AUCTION – Colin is the auctioneer and is available to chat to you personally during the auction (or before) by email, text message, phonecall, Facebook Messenger or Whatsapp.
