gypsy_hipster

Last year, after developing an obsession with European commuter bikes, I commissioned my friend who refurbishes old bikes under the monicker "****goose Bicycles" to help me build a bike in that style. We started with a 1981 Schwinn Caliente frame - lugged steel, American-made. For optimum comfort, I wanted street tires (City Slickers - 26" x 1.50"), pedal brakes (it also has a front handlebar brake for safety), and a three-speed internal shifter. I swapped out the drop-down handlebars for traditional swept-back commuter handlebars, which I found on a scrap heap at a used bike store and paid about a buck for. Finishing touches included an Electra Amsterdam saddle and matching grips. I think the finished product is quite nice, but slow as molasses! I used to think it was because of its heavy frame, but as I've learned more about bikes I've come to realize the street tires and upright riding-style are probably to blame. It's fun to ride on flat roads, but even gentle hills are challenging! Would it be worth swapping the street tires for some road bike tires in the interest of increasing rideability? Having a cute bike is great, but having a cute bike I can actually use is even better.

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y1sxVge_2i...nn_goose_3.jpg
https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y1sxVge_2i...nn_goose_2.jpg
https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y1sxVge_2i...winn_goose.jpg

The inspiration:
(My grandmother, touring Europe in the 40's):
https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y1sxVge_2i...ormor_bike.jpg

Also, I've been looking around for a netted dress guard like the ones I've seen on bikes in Europe, but I can't find an American retailer that sells them. Anyone know where I could find one? I found this website, but I'm a tad concerned about having it shipped overseas:

https://www.fahrradsaturn.com/Fahrrad...e::111424.html

wrk101

N+1. You have basically optimized the capability of that bike and frame. Well done! But if you want something faster, add a quality, light weight racing bike to your fleet.

Or just sell it and move to more of a racing/road bike. I trade up all of the time.

RavingManiac

Great shot of your grandmother Gypsy. Thanks for sharing that.