Hi all! I did some searches on here and Google. I must not have been typing in the correct keywords, cause I did not find anything, and I know this has been answered before.

Well, I went out and got a 1969 Schwinn Varsity 10-speed (probably the most common bicycle ever?). Looks like all original components and what-not. No frame rust. Still shifts (I think). Tires in decent shape, tho the front needs a tiny bit more air, front brakes need aligned (how to?), and all pads need replaced. Pretty sure the derailleurs are good, but that pertains to one of my questions.

I am not 100% sure how to shift gears. There are two levers. I assume that one is to switch between HI and LO, and the other changes between gears 1-5. Problem is, I do not know which one, and when I ride it, it seems as though it is not switching gears most of the time. At one point, I was able to switch between three gears (I think), but was unable to do so again. So, this could either be my lack of knowledge, bad derailleurs, or the combination of the two.

If you have any beginner tips/advice, it would be much appreciated as well!

Also, beginner gear - I will not be riding this bicycle avidly until next spring, as I need to accumulate gear. I would like to know the bare essentials - I plan to do mostly DIY repairs/maintenance, if it does not take too many expensive tools.

Thanks all!