Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Help Double Check My Findings: 1960's Schwinn Varsity Tourist? Thanks!

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bikemanbob
03-23-11, 10:14 AM
I believe it is a 1966 Schwinn Varsity Tourist. For its age, the bike is in relatively good shape. I bought it for $30. When I was buying another bike, I asked the seller if he had any more bikes. He showed me several and the best was the Tourist. The round head badge and downtube shifters place it in the 60's. The seat is not original but may have value by itself. It is missing some rivets, but otherwise, it is in good shape. I'm thinking the bike is worth $80-120. I would like help double checking my findings and assessing a value. Thanks!

http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad253/bikemanbob/Schwinn%20Varsity%20Tourist/DSC05492.jpg

http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad253/bikemanbob/Schwinn%20Varsity%20Tourist/DSC05493.jpg

http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad253/bikemanbob/Schwinn%20Varsity%20Tourist/DSC05494.jpg

http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad253/bikemanbob/Schwinn%20Varsity%20Tourist/DSC05495.jpg

http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad253/bikemanbob/Schwinn%20Varsity%20Tourist/DSC05491.jpg

auchencrow
03-23-11, 01:22 PM
Hi bikemanbob -

At first glance it looks like just another EF Schwinn Varsity but on closer inspection, the ST decal and DT mounted shifters distinguish it, and together with the full chromed fenders and apparent excellent condition, it would lead me to believe it could bring 100+.

However - you will have to find someone who really wants an old Schwinn, and not just someone who is just looking for "a sturdy beater bike" for their son or daughter to take to college. (It would be a shame to see it put to that purpose anyway).

It has been hard to sell anything here lately, but the good news is there still are plenty of people who like these old EF Chicago Schwinns, and who will pay for them.
- In order to entice them though, I think you'll have to replace that saddle with a more appropriate sprung black mattress style. (See catalog photo). I think it would help to hype the Chicago made vintage thing also, and include the catalog page when you go to sell it.

http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh117/auchencrow/Bike%20Forums/VarsityTourist.jpg
bikemanbob
03-23-11, 02:03 PM
Thank Auchen! Great information and great advice!