yes it originally came with 26 inch wheels. Personally, missing original fork price is silly high. Around here if it was ready to ride AND had original fork, maybe $200. Realize it was likely made in Japan, Definitely not made in USA. Schwinn expanded the Paramount name across many bikes and models. The made in USA versions have the most value. Some of the PDG were made in China, I think I have a PDG 40 which is made in China.