A major drawcard of the Liberator is its striking retro look. Owners often mentioned that the army-green paintwork and vintage look drew a lot of attention.
By all reports, assembly of the Liberator was straight-forward and simple.
Fat, 2.4 inch tires rolled over bumps easily.
While this is a cruiser, owners felt that gearing was low enough for climbing hills.
More than one cyclist found the sprung saddle comfortable.
The coaster brake delivered ample stopping power.
A number of users appreciated the swept-back handlebars.
The Liberator came across as a sturdy example of heavy-duty quality.
Finishing touches were commended. These included an embossed pleather saddle and matching grips.
Steel accessories, such as fenders and a chain-guard, were built to last.

3 reasons not to buy

The Liberator not only features a tank, it is one. At 37 pounds, it’s heavyset.
One buyer received their bike with dented fenders.
For another owner, the front fork was squashed and unusable.

Bottom line

This cruiser is a throwback to the military bicycles of the Second-World War. It resembles those bikes in more ways than one. The frame is fluid and robust. The bike is strong, simple, heavy and slow. In this way, it isn’t so different from most other cruisers. Except that it features a ‘faux petrol-tank frame-bulge’ and spartan army decals with matte-green paintwork. If you are after a stripped-back machine with a patriotic feel, the Liberator may suit your flatland-cruising needs.

By Owen Jesse

Expert Reviews

0/100 based on 0 rated expert reviews

Apply to become an expert

The Rock Father

Level 1 expert

The Rebirth of an American Classic: Columbia Bicycles and my Military-Inspired ‘Liberator’

Level 1 expert

It’s not an outright reproduction of the bikes from that time, but one that’s certainly inspired by the era – a head-turning retro-military design with a sweet-looking hydroformed “tank” on its 26″ aluminum frame.

Visit full review

Apply to become an expert