You are here: Home / Remembering Bikes in Military History / A 1891 Columba Light Roadster Safety, which was made in American. In 1891 it was regarded as state-of-the-art bike because it had a rear brake, no seat tube, and cushioned tires. This bike was modified to hold a rifle and ammunition case so that it could be used by American soldiers (Photo: Peter Suciu, Bicycle Museum of America)