1968 Double Diamond.

[SSG]

This 1968 racer was pretty rough from sitting outside as yard art so it was a perfect candidate for a mild custom job. I've built it up in the style of a ship yard bike while making use of as many of the original parts as possible. It started out as this.

After stripping it down I braced the frame with a second top tube.

The frame tag is based on examples I could find pictures of. Modern shipyard bikes still use something similar. (U.S.N.W.N.Y) stands for United States Navy Washington Navy Yard.

I distressed the paint because I wanted the bike to look like a well worn original.

The off-white wheels and blackout sprocket are typical of wartime Schwinn lightweights.

Link to build thread http://www.ratrodbikes.com/forum/index.php?threads/1968-double-diamond.108752/

 

[irideiam]

Sweet reuse of a crusty Race!!!!!

 

[toro1978]

The second top tube makes it so different. I also think this is a wonderful color choice. Cool rims too, pretty wide!

 

[OddJob]

Great conception and execution on the second straight bar! Cool vibe!

 

[dropstep]

I like this. Kind of makes me rethink throwing away the racer in my basement

 

[Chad T]

Way to give an old Schwinn some style. Looks cool.

 

[sdframe]

You nailed it!

 

[SSG]

Thanks for the compliments. I really enjoyed building this one.

 

[Jake Sensi]

LOVING THE CONCEPT

 

[kingfish254]

Nice work!
Well done!

You probably already know this, but Don't forget that when the Voting thread is created we will use the first pic from your Finished thread. I'm not suggesting anything is wrong with the current pic, just making sure everyone knows.