Columbia locking fork timeline

[fat tire trader]

Hello,
Does anyone know when Columbia started making locking (non springer forks) and when they stopped. Are they all the same or are the different ones?
Thanks,
Chris

 

[MrColumbia]

The Protecto lock was introduced for the 1948 model year on non springer forks. They were offered until at least 1957. I think they were all the same for the entire production.

The springer fork was not introduced until October of 1948 in sales flyers and showed up on the 1949 model years. They were available until 1961.

 

[fat tire trader]

Thanks! Did they need special headset cups or a special frame?

 

[MrColumbia]

Thanks! Did they need special headset cups or a special frame?

No. They fit the standard ballooon tire Columbia frame used at the time like was used on the 3 and 5 stars.

 

[Coaster Brake]

Thanks! Did they need special headset cups or a special frame?

The locking pawl actually slides into the bottom tube of the frame.
It's a pretty clever idea actually.

 

[MrColumbia]

The only problem I've seen with fit is using one of the springer forks from the RX-5 Repro on an original frame. Sometimes the locking cam does not line up correctly with the frame tube and needs to be filed down in spots.

 

[fat tire trader]

Thanks a lot. I'm bringing this fork that I have into my local lock smith today to see if he can cut a key for it.

 

[catfish]

Thanks! Did they need special headset cups or a special frame?

There is an insert in the bottom tube for the lactch to catch. So there isn't a lot of play in it. You don't have to have it in your frame for it to work. But it makes the lock work better.

 

[Harry scala]

Hello,
Does anyone know when Columbia started making locking (non springer forks) and when they stopped. Are they all the same or are the different ones?
Thanks,
Chris

 

[Harry scala]

Hello Chris....the Columbia locking fork you have for sale ....would the lock work for a Columbia 5 star...I have a wanted ad for a lock for 5 star...