Recent content by Reallybigtim

Progress so far. I do intend to buff the orange paint off of the forks

Installed a vintage Monark chain ring and crank similar to the original. I would prefer a smaller chain ring, but I need to find an acceptable one that uses a speed chain instead of the skip-tooth type.

Installed the original seat from my '41 Elgin. It nicely follows the lines of the custom seat post. I usually try to drop the seat as low as possible, but I cannot find my lucky 7 wedge-mount seat post. If I find it, I will be able to lower it all the way down.

This is probably my last build. That's why I named it Swan Song. Just not up to it anymore. I will be selling what I have left this year. I've built over a hundred bikes in the last 15 years and I plan on posting pictures of them all. It's been fun.

The 26x2.125s fit on them, but I am not sure that the fenders would have had enough clearance. The 24x3s are actually about 26.5" tall, so they cannot be used with fenders either. The seat post used with the original shim collar is a very tight fit. Then I just give it a couple of extra taps...

These handlebars are early Schwinn Sting Ray's from 1963-4. They provide a comfortable upright riding position for an adult-sized rider. The grips are reproductions of prewar Elgin Twin Bar style. I haven't decided on the stem to be used, but it will be similar to this style. The overall...

Here is the Chop Shop Customz seat post in place. It nicely relocates the seat position rearward and lower to facilitate a larger, adult-sized rider.

The only really modern part I am using is this custom (solid steel) seat post. To get the real cruiser look, I like to move the seat as far back and as low as possible. I have to be careful on this old (1937) aluminum frame because this puts a lot of leverage pressure on it, but the post...

These bikes originally came with 24" wheels, but I have always liked stuffing the biggest tires I can fit into these old frames. So by using mid-50's Schwinn 24" S-2 rims, I am able to squeeze 3" cream Thick Brick tires down to about 2 5/8" and make them fit in the frame without rubbing...

One aspect of the Wing Bar frame that is an eyesore (to me) is the difference in the steering head angle compared to the actual fork angle. The way I correct this is to use the front half of a Monark springer fork (from the same era) adapted to the existing aluminum fork to make a hybrid fork...

Anyone out there have a ratty old Monark badge for this thing?

Surprise! Now it's time for the crazy mock-ups!

Those of you who know me will probably already know, by the title, what kind of bike I am building. It is my all-time favorite frame. I am not yet sure of what direction it will take, but it will be simple and to the point. As usual, style and aesthetics will be the goal, and of course, it...

Black and white just gives it that vintage vibe!