Re-imagined Collegiate

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Joined
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I have a Campus Green ‘72 Collegiate with the camelback frame design that is one of my go-to rides. I picked up a similar one in red, but I just never enjoyed riding it as much. For this Build-Off, my goal was to change it up in ways that would make it a good alternative to the stock bike while still maintaining the feel of original Chicago Schwinn lighweights.
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It’s not a radical transformation like some of our builds, but then that wasn’t my goal. I think I succeeded; lately I have been choosing this over the stock one. I guess we will see if that changes over time as the novelty wears off.
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I was thinking about taking the Bluetooth speaker off the bars for the photos, but I decided to leave it because that's the way I ride it.
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Last edited:
Details, details:
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Click here to see the build thread.

Parts/upgrades/modifications

Frame/fork: Chicago Schwinn 1975
Handlebar stem: original Schwinn
Handlebars: salvaged from Trek hybrid
Headset: original Schwinn
Crank/sprocket/BB: 70s Schwinn Varsity
Rims: alloy 26 x 1.5, Weinmann front, SuperSonic rear
Hubs: Sansin QR front, generic rear
Tires: Vittoria Randonneur 26 x 1.75
Pedals: Original Schwinn rattrap
Derailleur/shifter: Shimano Acera SIS salvaged from Trek hybrid
Freewheel cluster: Used Shimano SIS 7-speed
Saddle: used Breezer
Seatpost: Porkchop BMX chromoly
Grips: salvaged from Trek cruiser
Brakes: Used generic MX1000 copies
Brake levers: Original Schwinn/Weinmann

Bike as originally acquired:
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Bike just before beginning build-off procedure:
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Great upgrades to a classic frame! Well done!
CONGRATS!
 
I am a major fan of Chicago Schwinn Varsity's. I've ridden one through many refreshes for about 25yrs now. I never tire of riding this bike even though I have lighter, faster choices here at home. Good choices on your component mix. Nice serviceable enjoyable Schwinn.
 
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