This auction is interesting because a it shows how a US frame had not advanced since the 1930's. Those who attended Cirque saw the early and late 1930's Pop Brennan's that Jeff Groman and I brought and Jeffs great presentation. The 50's was a period of stagnation and decline in the US lightweight and racing market. The UK and continental bike biz was in full advance.
Joe Bender-Zanoni
Great Notch, NJ
> Dear Listees,
> I have for sale one Men's Schwinn Varsity 52cm. seat tube with a 56cm
> top tube. The serial number is: DB 82583 which places the frame
> production date to be APRIL 1966.
> The bicycle appears to be all original with many components labeled
> "SPRINT". The black leather saddle, and the French made front and rear
> derailleur(most likely made by Huret) have the "SPRINT" logo as well as
> the alloy handlebar stem. Made in France hubs are bolt on style
> axle,with high flanges,with 36 HOLE front and rear.
> The pedals are a Schwinn rubber with an alloy band,probably not original
> to that model Schwinn but of the correct vintage.
> Braze on down tube shifters (most likely Huret)
> 27 X 1 1/4" Carlisle "Meridian" replacement tires look like they were
> never ridden but show signs of dry rot in sidewalls upon close
> examination.
> The sky blue paint has held up remarkably well along with all the
> factory decals (Arnold Schwinn style decal on seat tube).
> Screw on style headbadge looks like part of the Schwinn logo has popped
> off (the Schwinn cross).
> Weinmann center pull brakes,with Weinmann levers.
> Rear derailleur I'm told is made by Huret and 1966 is one of the first
> years the SPRINT rear derailleur was also used on the five speed Schwinn
> Stingray type bicycles.
> The overall condition of the bicycle is GOOD.
> Cost $75.00 plus shipping.
>
> Yours truly,
> Martin Walsh in Vienna,Va.