1938 Schwinn [Hollywood?]

[elginkid]

I picked this bike up today, and probably overpaid a bit, but I’ve had this tank sitting around for a decade and this bike matches it PERFECTLY. Too bad I can’t find the tank straps at the moment. Even the small pinstripes on the horn grilles are the same blue. But I’m puzzled by this bike’s existence. Based on the serial number, it appears to be a 1938, which would make sense based on the fenders, paint pattern etc. However, the 1938 catalog specifically talks about the Knee Action springer form as being specifically not available. You don’t really see it pictured in the catalog until 1940, but I can’t find any reference to it. The 1938 lower trim models also didn’t appear to have this frame shape, it was reserved for the more deluxe bicycles, but this doesn’t have any evidence of a lighting system, which I would expect on a Hollywood. Help me figure this bike out!

 

[bobcycles]

Super early Legit "unequipped" B model girls...1st year spring fork! COOL!
Lots of special order bikes went out back then ... even certain distributors
had their own "tastes and flavors" they opted in for when ordering

 

[GTs58]

The springer fork was available in 1938 and they said it was not available on the Hollywood and the other equipped model. It was available on the two B models along with the double duty fork as an option.

 

[elginkid]

It makes so little sense to not put your best equipment on your best equipped bicycles. The frames and fenders threw me off because the rear braces are that of the higher end models, and the ‘38 unequipped frames show the earlier frame style.

 

[Goldenrod1]

This a reverse painted 1940 from a garage sale near my house. If this helps with tank identity.

 

[elginkid]

This a reverse painted 1940 from a garage sale near my house. If this helps with tank identity.

View attachment 1841291

View attachment 1841292

View attachment 1841294

That’s beautiful! The 1940 Hollywood is probably my favorite prewar ladies Schwinn.

 

[BatWaves]

I’ll buy this from you if it’s for sale?

 

[MrMonark13]

@BatWaves Definitley not for sale

 

[Schwinn Sales West]

It makes so little sense to not put your best equipment on your best equipped bicycles. The frames and fenders threw me off because the rear braces are that of the higher end models, and the ‘38 unequipped frames show the earlier frame style.

My guess is that they were not yet ready with the girls "length" spring fork for the 1938 model year. It's obvious they were working on it because it was offered as a option on later models. I do not believe I have ever seen one "in person". Pretty cool option.

John

 

[GTs58]

1938 Roadster. No reason given why the tank models did not have the spring fork option. Smashing the tank would be my guess.

1938 Hollywood.