I got this 1948 Schwinn DX model after it had been passed around the hobby a bit, so since it was only partially intact, I decided the best course of action, was to just build it up as a boardwalk roadster.
Back when I was in high school, you could pick up a bike like this, for $10 bucks at a local thrift store.
There were only two things you looked for.
It had to be a skip tooth, and it had to be a Schwinn.
If it didn’t have either of those characteristics, you kept moving.
First thing to go, in converting your new found, old bike into a beach cruiser, was the fenders.
No need for those on a crowded boardwalk in the middle of Summer.
Next was a few personal touches, like the addition of the stylishly curved Torrington, “half moon” bars, and a super comfortable “clothespin” spring saddle.
Another popular upgrade at the time, was the heavy duty, Schwinn “Wasp” type, large flange hub.
With these minor alterations, the look was complete.
You had yourself a classic 70’s style, “Beach Cruiser.”
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The “Studded Balloon” tires, completed the look, but I have to admit, they suck for riding the boardwalk.
So, I think I’ll switch them out for the buttery smooth ride of the tried and true,
“Typhoon Cord.”
I mean after all, you don’t want to have to have a gorilla grip on the handlebar with one hand while you’re carrying your surfboard in the other, and simultaneously checking out the smokin hot chicks in thong bikinis.
So, I’m going with the Typhoon Cords.