Input sought on potential winter project...
11-03-06, 07:18 AM
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Input sought on potential winter project...
I've come across a Schwinn Superior frameset and fork. As I remember these were the first step into double butted chrome molly tubing. I'm thinking about making it a project, but I'm not sure how I want to approach it. On one hand, I'm thinking about doing a restoration with as many original parts as possible (I acutally have a fair amount of what I'll need... front & rear derailleurs, crankset, wheel hubs, and stem... no bars, shifters, brakes, or rims.) Or, I could go with an updated version with as much modern stuff as possible. If I go the restoration route, I'm fearful I'll be disappointed with the performance when compared to today's bikes. If I go with the updated version.... well, I'm not sure how I feel about it. Suggestions or thoughts?
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A conclusion is the place where you got tired of thinking. - S. Wright
Favorite rides in the stable: Indy Fab CJ Ti - Colnago MXL - S-Works Roubaix - Habanero Team Issue - Jamis Eclipse carbon/831
11-03-06, 07:36 AM
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Hmm. This is a poser. My first instinct would be to go with what you have nearest to hand and since you already have many of the parts for a more "original" rebuild I'd try that first. If you had the modern compents, I'd go there. The initial cost would be much less and you'd still get the gratification of watching the bike grow into shape. If you compare it to a modern, cutting edge machine, of course you'll find it coming up short, but if you accept it on its own standards it will still be great fun. The beauty of this approach is you can still upgrade to more modern components as time and budget allow. Either way -- you win!
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11-03-06, 07:39 AM
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First, I love your idea and while some would say go original, I'd suggest build it up with vintage highend components. For instance I came across this on NH's Craig's list and I'm really tempted, but your idea sounds to be a worthy project: https://mitchmc.cnc.net/BikeStuff/index.htm What year is the frameset? If you don't know how to tell, post the Serial number. If you want more information I could refer you to some guys who really know Superiors. PM me.
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11-03-06, 08:24 AM
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I'd say, it depends on how you want to use it. If you restore it to original, it should be as a show bike, ridden rarely. If you're gonna use it, then put more standard doo-dads on it (but keep the OEM stuff in a safe place.)
11-03-06, 08:37 AM
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I rode an old British Bobby bike and was sort of amazed at what a smooth and easy riding, comfortable bike those were. I'd certainly not want to climb on one but riding it in the conditions for which it was designed was rather enlightening.
I have an '82 Colnago Super that's every bit the bike of any modern bike in its class. I saw a '74 Colnago that had all of the braze-ons added to it and it was almost indentical to mine.
The point of all of this is that bicycles are bicycles. You're afraid that an older heavier bike will ride like an older heavier bike? Well, if you're disappointed at that after you build it, take a test ride on one of those Trek Hybrids and you'll GLADLY go back to your Schwinn Superior.
I have an '82 Colnago Super that's every bit the bike of any modern bike in its class. I saw a '74 Colnago that had all of the braze-ons added to it and it was almost indentical to mine.
The point of all of this is that bicycles are bicycles. You're afraid that an older heavier bike will ride like an older heavier bike? Well, if you're disappointed at that after you build it, take a test ride on one of those Trek Hybrids and you'll GLADLY go back to your Schwinn Superior.
