1974 Schwinn Varsity
 

My boss was cleaning out the shop and was going to throw out this 74 Varsity. It has been sitting for a while and i want to get it going again. The first thing i want to do is clean and lube everything and replace the chain. I'm pretty new to cycling and was just wondering if there was a recommended chain for this specific bike? I don't mind spending a little more for a quality chain but don't want to go over the top on this older bike.

Any other advice is welcome also :)

http://i.imgur.com/ip0rq.jpg

KMC Z30, $5 on the internet.

replace the brake and shifter cables and housing for best brake and shifter operation.

Wow didn't think it was going to be that cheap.

Gonna get it on amazon for 8 bucks shipped, just gotta decide if i want it nickle plated or not.

Brown or Nickle

I plan to get to the cables and pads next and maybe a new saddle depending on how this one feels.

couple more shots of the bike, looks like some of that rust may be a problem.

http://i.imgur.com/OQtza.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/hQUzO.jpg

Do some searches here pilky, there's lots of rust removal techniques that are covered in various threads here. No reason that can't be cleaned up and looking good without loosing it's character.

You can even save that chain. Is it stuck? Or you just don't like the way it looks?

One of the links gets slightly stuck.

For $8 bucks i don't mind putting a fresh chain on. I think this one has seen its day.

http://i.imgur.com/ojvjA.jpg

Probably right, I have saved chains that were completely frozen. You can soak it in a solvent, then in oil. You will be surprised how well things clean up. It's only eight dollars, but all those things add up.

Nice complete bike. Hope you get it cleaned up, and enjoy the ride.

As mentioned, cleaning and soaking the chain in oil may help. You can put in a plastic bag with oil to soak it. If the tires need replacement they are only about $7 each at Niagara Cycle Works. Brake pads are $2 a pair. The Alvit-Huret rear derailleur has already been replaced for you. Plastic handlebar tape (black) is probably about $2, also at N.W.C. That tape may clean up, though. These bikes are one of the easiest in the world to rebuild.