I know basically nothing about bikes but was looking for one. Came across this bike, jumped the gun because I’ve always loved vintage things and paid 150. Good/bad? Any guesses on year? Just tell me things I’ve you got ‘em please. I’d like to replace the seat as it’s pretty beat up, any recommendations?
by xt129
9 Comments
Not the best deal, but for a vintage bike in riding condition. Not a bad price
I like the chain guard a lot, very cool even for the period
Price depends on market, bikey towns on the money, touch high. Not bikey town, high.
I can’t tell much from photos. Nothing stands out as bad, but nothing is spectacular either. Looks like a solid cruiser in better than average condition for its age. And it would be great as a grocery getter or short distance commuter depending on terrain.
Edit seat tube looks bent, easy and cheap fix if it’s not rusted shut.
What does it say on the chainguard?
A tad higher than I’d pay, but it looks solid. Are you going to have someone look it over/service it? I’d suggest it, if you’re inexperienced with bike maintenance, and be prepared for the cost of a tune up and to replace some expendables (and, of course, the new saddle you want).
Aesthetically, it’s way in my wheelhouse, so I don’t blame you for jumping on it. 🙂
It’s always hard to know what to pay for a bike, though you can spend most of that on tires, chain, grips, etc. which appear to be ok. You can find old bikes like this at garage sales for next to nothing when people need them gone, but when you’re actually looking they’re never around.
You’re not going to hurt anything on that bike by just riding it and having fun. New bikes are more expensive and that one is simple and pretty bulletproof.
Ride it, love it, that’s it.
You found a bike you liked and could afford it. Win win!
I love the aesthetics and those retro headlights are amazing. I have had them in many of the vintage Schwinns I’ve restored. Does it work? Is it powered by the energy you generate by pedaling? Looks heavy but that means it’s sturdy and one of the reasons it’s lasted this long. The color is also very cool!
The rack is nice. I have one like it on a Steyr 3-speed. I can load it up with heavy items and it stays steady.
Found one beautiful cruiser bike, here. $150 US is worth it. Rolling stock like these will not bless the market anytime soon, if ever again. The obvious focus was “build to last”. You bought a fine piece of history. I find mine to be a relaxing experience riding around town. 26 x 2.125 (559×2.125) tires are an easy get, too. Screwdriver, and 12″ spanner wrench is all it takes to work on these.