Hello. I recently bought my wife a Firestone Speed Chief bicycle, which was restored by a friend who restores motorcycles. My friend who restored it has little knowledge of old bicycles, and neither do I.
Attached are photos prior to restoration and some photos after restoration. He duplicated the original decals, and otherwise, he believes the bicycle was in its original condition before he sandblasted and powder coated it.
I’m looking for help identifying the maker and approximate year of this bicycle. There’s a serial number stamped on the rear dropout: B186998. I’ve been told the seat stay is a unique shape that may identify the maker. I’m looking for help identifying 1) the manufacturer; 2) the year; and 3) would this bicycle have originally had a tank?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Attached are photos prior to restoration and some photos after restoration. He duplicated the original decals, and otherwise, he believes the bicycle was in its original condition before he sandblasted and powder coated it.
I’m looking for help identifying the maker and approximate year of this bicycle. There’s a serial number stamped on the rear dropout: B186998. I’ve been told the seat stay is a unique shape that may identify the maker. I’m looking for help identifying 1) the manufacturer; 2) the year; and 3) would this bicycle have originally had a tank?
Thanks in advance for your help!