Originally Posted by cranky
So the question is, what are the typical makes and models for a project fixie? I'm trawling thrift stores and I want to make sure I find something worth doing a project on, and not come home with a total piece o' crud 80's version of a Target bike. And since I'm a first-timer, I'm looking for something with standard sized fittings, and threads, and yadda yadda what nots, to keep it simple.
For example, a quick search on Craigslist for 'Schwinn' shows Varsities and Collegiates for around 50 bucks. But would that work for me or am I looking for something better?
Yeah, those'll work. People have made good fixies from those. In terms of Schwinn, all but the top couple models have very similar frames. Remember you'll not be using the shifters, rear brake, derailers, freewheels, maybe the handlebars, etc. So heavy and/or crappy components aren't an especially big concern.
I was in your situation a couple months ago, ended up with a 1983 Lotus frame (probably equivalent to a Schwinn Letour or something like that), kept the frame, fork, seatpost, stem, headset, front wheel, back rim, and tires. I followed Sheldon's guide and even relaced the rear wheel myself. I now have a great ride, in fact I commute on it every day.
Any Japanese or American bike from the 70s or 80s should work for you. Possibly a French import like a Peugeot, but some models have the obsolete French bottom bracket threads (others don't, however). Basically, look for the best bike with horizontal dropouts that you can get for $20 or $50 or however much you want to spend. What emayex said above is good advice
