I’m the proud new owner of this vintage bicycle. Bought from the original owner whilst on the job. I saw it in his garage and started talking to him about it. His dad got it for him when he was 9 in Florida and he used it only a couple of times to fill in on a paper route. When he asked if I wanted to make an offer, I asked how much he wanted for it and he said $50 and I said “yeah sure”, very calmly, as my head was about to explode with joy.
A little info and history:
This particular model of cruiser, built by Schwinn, came out nearing the end of the great cruiser era (1930’s-50’s). Starting in 1950, Schwinn stopped rebranding its bikes and sold them exclusively with the Schwinn logo in an attempt to build its brand name. This was done with the exception of a few models that were sold in BF Goodrich tire stores. So, my bike was most likely purchased new in a tire store.
This bike, along with stylish frame geometry and paint designs, is equipped with a removable tank (tank holds a battery powered horn), battery powered head light, heart-shaped “skip tooth” chainring and drive assembly, and springer seat. As far as I can tell, this bike is in its original form with nothing missing.
What an experience it is to ride this cruiser! To have a first hand experience of what it was like 60 years ago is a great feeling. Something about the style of this period jumps out and grabs me. I plan on holding on to this gem and slowly restoring it.
lucky!
looks rad! I’d say just clean it up real nice. I bet the paint and chrome are thick and will polish nicely.
Also, cool fog!
Yeah thats what I was thinking too, I started doing the wheels. There’s some pitting that’s not coming out, but it looks much better.
Hi, saw your challenger bike while I was surfing the net looking for one! My older brother Dan had the exact same bike when he was a kid and I am looking for one to restore. Would you consider selling it please? name your price! please call my cell 856-261-9999 thanks Leo
Sorry Leo, I am currently holding onto it. But, if I ever go to sell it, I’ll call you first.
Please for the love of god do not restore this bicycle.
I am from the school of loving patina, rust and character. Giving thanks to the years of attention or neglect that come through in the natural state of things as they age.
The Japanese use the term wabi-sabi to define the nature of impermanence and imperfection that is in many ways on par with the western and European longing for perfection and beauty in terms of cultural importance.
The worth of this bike much greater in it’s original state than it is restored by someone whom never stepped foot in the old Schwinn factory, and never placed a hand on the pin striping brushes of the painters whom detailed this bike.
Do yourself a favor and keep this bike the way it is for as long as you can, so you can tell your children’s children about where this bike came from back in the day for $50; and look at how nice of shape it is in for being over one hundred years old.
Or if you do restore this bike, make sure it’s a Conservation Restoration. Don’t sell it.
– Juan – Collector of wabi-sabi imperfection on two wheels.
I got one today at a yard sale stripped down with freas power coat red.. 1952 Couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the face plate. These people knew what they had, well kinda!!! Don’t think they noticed the small Schwinn name below BF Goodrich but it’s mine for $40.
As for your bike Dude… I wouldn’t do a dame thing except mount it on the wall!!!!! Restoring will lose it’s value!!! Keeping it in the original condition as I see in pics, you got something that will continue to grow in value like GOLD!!!! Keep it like it is and hang from ceiling… lol (_8(I)