HardtailHardtail mountain bikes have front suspension and a rigid frame. This style of mountain bike is best for dirt paths and trails. Hardtail bikes are lighter and more agile than their full suspension counterparts, but they’re not as well suited on ultra bumpy, rough terrain. All-terrain, wide knobby mountain tires provide the grip and stability you need out on the trail, while alloy wheels add lightweight strength. Schwinn’s mountain bikes are all single frame size bikes, which are designed to fit most adults.
However, there are some of these that stand the test of time. Old images, catalogs, and advertisements are often more readily available than serial number compendiums. One of the best ways to identify an old Schwinn bike is to compare the bike you have to advertising images and photographs of other Schwinns. This can give you some clues about the model, the year it was made, and any options it may have.
Full SuspensionJust like it sounds, full suspension mountain bikes have suspension built into both the fork and frame. These bikes are great for riding on super rough terrain, though they tend to be heavier than hardtail bikes. A year later I sold the mountain bike and then tried a hybrid. Dang, the cycling industry really had a thing for splatter paint around 1990. That got me onto skinnier 700c wheels and I was able to go faster.
This bike seemed like it was ready to take on any trail or obstacle. You want to get away from it all and enjoy the majesty and adventure of the great outdoors. You want to feel the sun and the wind and the thrill of it all.
In fact, this can be an ingenious way to get an old Schwinn for an affordable price. If your vintage Schwinn needs some restoration, you can hunt down parts on eBay or other specialty sites. If there is a serial number, it’ll always appear on the actual frame of the bike rather than on a removable part like the seat, handlebars, or wheels. Ride up to 20 MPH with the 500-watt hub drive pedal assist motor that gives you a boost while you pedal, making it easy to climb to the top of the trail.
Forty-five pounds lighter I started working at schwinn mountain bike bike shops and raced every race I could find. It’s been 33-years since the car ride and proposition that altered my life. I sometimes wonder where I would be today if she had just asked to go out for a cheeseburger, beer and a couple cigarettes.
EBay is a great resource for all kinds of antique and vintage items, including Schwinn bikes. You’ll see many of the models Schwinn produced in the last half of the 20th century, along with some older models from the earlier part of the company’s history. You’ll also find parts for Schwinn bikes of all ages. If you’re buying a vintage Schwinn on eBay, be sure to ask lots of questions about the bike’s condition. Also keep shipping costs in mind, since packaging and transporting a bike can get expensive.