Originally Posted by
jefnvk
Travelers/Le Tours generally cost no more and look the same and are better. Look for one of those.
Agreed. The Varsity's did have some great color options but are heavy. If you're looking for a 70s model, the Le Tours, Super Sports or Superiors would be a little lighter and not that much more expensive.
I'd try to look for something toward the later 70s since some of the latter models came with Huret rear dropouts which only use obsolete derailleurs (still obtainable, but limited to 70s and earlier models). Even better would be an 80s Schwinn. If you keep the search to pre-1986 Schwinns, there are some classy options. Of course, you could always repaint...
Also, bike prices on ebay are really out of line most of the time, pretty much "must have" pricing. Varsity's pop up around here for under $100 all the time on Craigslist. I'd look at your local co-op or bike shop. Craigslist is good but you may have to do some work (or pay a bike shop) to get the bike where you want it.