Archive for July, 2009

Is a “vintage” tandem Schwinn bike worth the trouble?

Monday, July 27th, 2009 at 9:27 am

Roscoe asked:

I found what appears to be a good deal on a "1970 Schwinn Twinn Deluxe" tandem bike ($175, reportedly only needs new seats).

I see brand new tandem bikes starting in the $400 range.

QUESTION 1:

How would the quality of this old Schwinn compare to these new $400ish bikes?

QUESTION 2:

In the event that I need to replace parts on the Schwinn, will I be able to find what I need? Would it be difficult to generic drugs without prescription retrofit the bike with an new brake system?

Reply:

Old Schwinn frames are heavy, but nearly bulletproof. Still, it will be a little flexy compared to a new Santana or Burley. Any new tandem you buy for $400 will be little more than junk.

You're right to be concerned about parts. Depending on the item, you may be be reduced to garbage picking. Brakes might not be that big a problem. I don't think V brakes would fit, but you could find SOMETHING in the modern parts inventory that you could make work.

I would be tempted if it were in good condition, but it wouldn't be a bike I'd ride a lot.