I’ve owned this Schwinn since 1978. It was rescued from a dairy pasture fence in what is now Cerritos, California, in the late 1960s. I always planned to restore it, but life got in the way. Time to pass it on to someone who will finish the project.
Dating Note: Originally told it was pre-war (1939–41) by a Huntington Beach restoration shop in the early 1980s (they supplied the replacement dropout for the damaged right rear). After extensive recent research (CABE forum, Google, YouTube, etc), the features clearly point to early postwar, most likely 1949–1955. Key indicators include forward-facing rear dropouts, electro-forged bottom bracket seam, and thinner 7/8" middle straight bar, rest of frame 1"+. No visible serial number (light sanding years ago may have removed shallow stamps from either the bottom bracket or left rear drop-out). I’ve done my best to accurately represent the bike with full transparency.
Frame Details:
Straight-bar balloon tire frame, 17.25" standover (top of top tube to center of BB)
Forward-facing rear dropouts with chain guard tabs
Original black paint with remnants of white striping (Panther/Hornet style)
Electro-forged construction with visible BB seam
Right rear dropout has corrosion damage (holds axle but not safe to ride) — includes correct 1980s replacement dropout
Fork:
Original locking Schwinn springer (“knee-action”) fork with AS stamped yoke bolts
One-hole / one-slot blades (factory design)
Partial truss rod remains (.753" width)
Includes head locknut and upper adjusting cup
Included Parts:
Excellent Schwinn Approved German hubs — 10/10 chrome (major highlight)
Rear coaster brake arm with frame clamp
20-tooth rear sprocket
Screw-on aluminum Schwinn head badge (one original screw)
Non-painted seat post binder with AS bolt
Misc original brackets/hardware
Threaded rods protecting frame and fork spacing
Condition: Solid, straight frame with no dents or visible cracks. Original paint and honest patina. All major parts are original to this bike.
Missing: Wheels/tires, fenders, tank, crank/sprocket, full headset cups, and chain guard.
This is a strong candidate for a full restoration or excellent parts donor. 50+ detailed photos available. Local pickup in Lakeview, OR preferred. Shipping possible (buyer pays actual FedEx cost — already boxed and protected at ~30 lbs).
Feel free to message with any questions — happy to take additional pictures. Hope this finds a good home!