1939 (1940) Spiegel Airman 4 bar, loop tail

[piercer_99]

I found this bike for sale, almost 5 months ago. The guy wasn't in a hurry to sell it, there was hours of discussion on it and negotiations, when he finally agreed to sell it, then I had to figure out the logistics, as it was in South Texas, a bit of a drive from me in north Texas.

Anyway, this weekend, a bunch of the family went down to Galveston, which put me within 150 miles of the bike, so, after leaving the island this morning, we went after it.

I got it from the grandson of the original owner, who purchased it new, in 39, and rode it almost everyday the rest of their life. Did all their shopping on it, and anywhere they had to go in town, the bike was the mode of transportation.

First thing, get it rolling and take it for a ride, then, probably sell it as I already have 4 people wanting it. It has been painted over, sometime in it's life, it is a solid bike, no frame damage, 1 broken fender bracket. The tires are roached, the seat could use love, but with all that in mind, it is beautiful. Only thing I am really not happy about is that it isn't a 5 bar.

The photos start with what I first saw, before every seeing it in person. Funny thing, the guy was worried I would change my mind after seeing it. not a chance.

 

[piercer_99]

As I was traveling with family, and luggage. First, I couldn't take my F250, my bride can't do the long distance rides in it, way to firm.

So, I had to buy a Saris Bones 2 bike rack, to fit my brides Impala, and a bike bar, to span the frame. Then pull the rack, so as not to scratch the Impala.

Overall, it was just over a 750 mile round trip, but it made it home safe and sound. Hope to have some time Tuesday and Wednesday to get it rolling again and take it for a ride.

After I ride it, it will probably be up for sale, stay tuned.

 

[catfish]

Nice find.

 

[Freqman1]

They may have purchased this bike new at the end of '39 but this is a '40 model. I also have a girls loop tail. Like the boys models these seem to be a little more uncommon than the standard four/five bars. You may try to carefully remove the house paint and see if you can salvage the original paint. V/r Shawn

 

[piercer_99]

Thanks Shawn,

whoever buys it will get to do the paint removal.

I am just going to get the wheels, hanger bracket and all in condition to ride. I am pretty sure I will leave this one as close to as found, so the next person can have all the glory.

I have others in line before I could get to this one.

As per the 39/40, I thought that starting in 40 they only came with the butterfly stand, and that the drop stand was on 39 only.


(also, I am pretty thankful that they didn't paint the rims.)

 

[Freqman1]

Butterfly was '39 as well. Depending on model/date built? whether it had drop or butterfly. V/r Shawn