Bicycle
198x Schwinn Traveler
Since the bicycle itself is a major
part of the adventure, I decided to dedicate it a separate page.
As already mentioned in the
introduction, this bike was purchased used for the price of $20.
When I got the bicycle, it had
all the frame stickers missing except for the permanent badge on the front tube
that displayed
The exact age of the bicycle is
unknown, but it was estimated as early 80s model by several Schwinn
store owners. It also had exact frame and component similarities with other Schwinn Travelers of those years.
Unfortunately, I can not tell for
sure what exactly kind of tubing it is made of, but numerous factors suggest
that it is typical for those times chro-moly steel.
The bicycle had regular Sun Tour
components that were severely abused and neglected. Cranks were falling off, derailleurs didn't shifting properly and many other parts were missing or
didn't work.
In satisfactory condition, however,
were: saddle, handlebar, brakes, both derailleurs, wheels and a
frame.
I started with purchasing new
tires, which are by the way old 27x1-1/4 size, rebuilding rear axle, cleaning
and lubricating the front one. Bottom bracket is an old, solid axle design- non sealed.
Some
off-name Shimano double front chain
rings were purchased. (53-44). Singapore made Shimano Rear 6 speed freewheel
(12-28 teeth), gave the drive train total of 12 speeds connected by a new KMC chain.
Aluminum
wheels were fairly true, but with all-rusty spokes. (This caused few
difficulties later).
Total
list and cost of parts:
Front
chain ring with left crank -
$30
Standard pedals for road bike - $20
Rear freewheel -
$20
Chain - $10
New set of brake and derailleur
cables - $15
Rear axle including bearings - $10
This major parts put the bike into a fairly reliable condition.
As can be seen from the above list,
in addition with the bike cost, it proved to be a reasonable alternative to buying
a new bicycle. At least to me… in addition with acquired experiences gained
from assembling all the components.
The bicycle was also painted and
got cosmetic changes such as handle bar tape. It did prove to be helpful in hot
summer weather when the hands are sweaty, as well giving handlebar a softer
feel.
Here are the pictures taken during the preparation process:
- Here is how the bike
looked right after the purchase
- Closer view
- New tires and rack
have been installed
- Frame stripped and
got prepared for new paint
- Green painted
frame
- Front chain
ring
- Rear cassette
(Notice that Falcon derailleur ;))
- After the paint job
assembled together
- Close view. Pretty
nice picture, of a pretty nice bike ;)
- Finally in the real
world, during the long run on a lonely Nevada Hwy 447
