I think we are certainly aware that bikes are often works of art. The thought that goes into the performance and aesthetic of the frame alone is inspiring. Schwinn, for instance fell upon a frame design that was both visually appealing and fun to ride. So much so, that they are using basically the same design over half a century later. I’ve always thought these old bikes looked like a lot of fun and a couple of years ago I actually found one while living in Denver. The bike was pretty hammered having spent 30 years on the Denver streets (The serial number indicates it is a ’79 Schwinn and there was a faded sticker from the bike shop it was bought at in Denver). I’ve planned, for the last 2 years, to repaint and restore the bike and this last week I’ve finally had the chance to do it. I took the entire thing apart, cleaned off all the 30 year old grease, dirt and grime, painted the frame, re-greased everything and put it back together. One interesting note, when I took the front tire off of the rim, there was a SOLID FOAM TUBE inside! It was hell getting the tire off of the rim and I had never seen anything like that tube. Heavy as heck too!

These old bikes are certainly simple and fun to work on and it is one smooth rider!
Thanks, Brian for the expertise and help!