Subtle Schwinn - COMPLETED!

[Robertk]

I like 26" BMX cruisers, so I decided on my next build, I would go low key - meaning less anodized parts, less bling, etc. I wanted to build a Schwinn cruiser that straddled the fence between something the Schwinn factory might have produced in the late 70's and a full out Cal Cruiser. So, here goes.

I started with a 1959 Schwinn Corvette frame I purchased from ind-chuckz. He seems to have an endless supply of Schwinn frames . I removed the kickstand, etc. and took it to my local powdercoater. Since this build was supposed to be half factory-like and half Cal Crusier custom-like, I decided to go with a color reminiscent of Schwinn's Sky Blue.

I had a set of Tange 1200 BMX forks which seem to be classic Cal Cruiser stuff, so they will be used. The headset is a combo from a Tioga Beartrap and a Peugeot Pipeline. I also polished out the headbadge to remove the paint. Here's where I'm at so far. Next up - replacing the Tange decals and adding a couple of Schwinn decals. I hope you like it!

Here's what I started with -

[crump582]

Looks like a great start... so funny you posted this today. I just bought a Schwinn Heavy Duti frame from Chuck this morning and am planning on making it a full size BMX. Been doing research all day on parts I want. I think I am going to get some new 24" mags for mine.

Good luck with the build!

[Critter1]

Awesome. I'm just fascinated with 26" BMX cruisers lately. That powder looks great on there too!

[boybluela]

Oh man, that is sweet... I just put a 24" Schwinn together with the same idea in mind using Old GT/Dyno parts..lol..Ill be watching this for sure Here is a link to minehttp://www.ratrodbikes.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=52003

[Critter1]

Got this guy together yet?

[scott brownsey]

nice paint

[Robertk]

So it's been a while since my original post. Been busy getting parts together and building wheels.

NOS Decals & silver ACS seat clamp



NOS silver KT Hubs



Arayas with KT hubs - need to clean up those spokes!!!




Porkchop Goodies



Takagi Cranks,NOS Blue Ano chainring, sealed YST bottom bracket conversion



Handlebar dilema - Original 1980 Schwinn Cruiser bars or Raleigh MX bars? I think I'll keep it "subtle" and use the Schwinn bars. Blue AME grips



Brooks Seat


26X 1.75 Rubber


Still waiting on the seat post - Tioga 13/16 laid back NOS, 9/16 KKT Silver road bike pedals, and need to purchase the chain.

Got something in mind for the hole left by the kickstand removal.

Next up is putting it all together!!!

[5lam]

Looking good so far! Keen to see all these parts installed!

[outskirtscustoms]

This gives me an idea for the bike I just found.

[Robertk]

Nice find!

[Robertk]

A few updates to the build. It's coming together slowly.

[Unchained]

Beautiful!!

I think you should run those Raleigh bars though. They would be a really cool touch.

I dig the pink Schwinn canti in the background of the first pics.

[crump582]

Looks great so far... is that a cap in place of the kickstand? I was thinking of cutting it off on mine, but the cap looks good. Did you buy it or make it?

[oldcruiser26]

Very nice I built a very similar bike last year one of my favs to ride in the summer

It has the BMX look but rides more like a cruiser with the low bottom bracket cant wait to see yours done

[Robertk]

Crump582 - That is an end cap from a Schwinn Varsity handlebar - fits right in the kickstand location! You should try it. I'm thinking it would be cool to color match the frame since there are a ton of options for 7/8 hadlebar ends!

Oldcruiser26 - sweet cruiser - looks really BMX! I debated whether to go with a crossbar handlebar or the Schwinn cruiser bars and single stem. I like yours. Decided to go with the single stem to keep the look a bit different from the Cal Cruisers, but just close enough.