1950'S Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle
Introduction
The 1950's Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle is a vintage bike that was created for racing. It is considered to be one of the most iconic bikes of its time and is still highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. The bike was produced by Schwinn, a company that has been around since the late 1800s and is known for creating high-quality bicycles that are designed to last.
History
The Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle was first introduced in the 1930s and quickly became one of the most popular racing bikes of its time. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that the bike really started to gain popularity among professional racers. During this time period, Schwinn introduced a number of new features to the bike, including a lightweight frame and improved gearing system.
Many of the top racers of the time, including six-time Tour de France winner Jacques Anquetil, rode on Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycles. The bike was also used by the U.S. Olympic team during the 1956 games in Melbourne, Australia.
Design
The Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle was designed with racing in mind. It features a lightweight steel frame, narrow tires, and drop handlebars that allow for a more aerodynamic riding position. The bike also has a fixed gear system, which means that the pedals are always in motion when the bike is moving forward.
One of the most notable design features of the Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle is its lugged frame. This means that the frame is made up of individual pieces of steel that are welded together at specific points. This design allows for a very strong and durable frame that can withstand the rigors of racing.
Restoration
If you are lucky enough to come across a Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle from the 1950s, you may be interested in restoring it to its former glory. Restoring a vintage bike like this can be a challenging but rewarding project.
The first step in restoring a Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle is to assess the condition of the bike. Look for any rust, dents, or other damage that may need to be repaired. You will also need to replace any parts that are worn or damaged, such as the tires, brakes, and gears.
Once you have assessed the bike's condition, you can start to disassemble it. This will allow you to clean and inspect each individual part, and replace any parts that need to be replaced. You may also want to refinish the frame to give it a fresh new look.
Conclusion
The 1950's Schwinn Paramount Track Bicycle is a true classic that has stood the test of time. Its lightweight design, lugged frame, and fixed gear system make it a popular choice for racing enthusiasts and collectors alike. If you are lucky enough to come across one of these vintage bikes, consider restoring it to its former glory and keeping it as a piece of cycling history.