First Schwinn, is it a 1954 or 1956?

[Porkchop & Applesauce]

The Spitfire had the same frame, fenders and rims. Good chance the chain guard could have been replaced with a Hornet decaled guard. If it's a middleweight frame it's definitely a 1956.

Looks like it has the smaller middle weight style fenders on it

 

[GTs58]

So, if I understand what I’m reading. If I measure the width at the fender bridge and it’s 2.5” then it’s a middleweight, making it a 1956. And this is because there wasn’t a 1954 middleweight?

If you have 2 1/2 inches or less that’s a middleweight. And it would be a 56 model. They did make middleweight frames in late 54 but they had the flat fender bridge and didn't use that paint scheme. Both the 56 Hornets were equipped and that makes me think this piece was the Spitfire.

 

[Crunchysock]

If you have 2 1/2 inches or less that’s a middleweight. And it would be a 56 model. They did make middleweight frames in late 54 but they had the flat fender bridge and didn't use that paint scheme. Both the 56 Hornets were equipped and that makes me think this piece was the Spitfire.

View attachment 1874106

What do you mean both 56 Hornets were equipped? Like fork crowns and shiny stuff?

 

[GTs58]

What do you mean both 56 Hornets were equipped? Like fork crowns and shiny stuff?

 

[Crunchysock]

If you have 2 1/2 inches or less that’s a middleweight. And it would be a 56 model. They did make middleweight frames in late 54 but they had the flat fender bridge and didn't use that paint scheme. Both the 56 Hornets were equipped and that makes me think this piece was the Spitfire.

View attachment 1874106

Looks like a middleweight. Thank you for the help.

Also, no holes for light in from fender, but looks to be a replacement fender, so…

 

[GTs58]

Looks like a middleweight. Thank you for the help.
View attachment 1874162

View attachment 1874163

Also, no holes for light in from fender, but looks to be a replacement fender, so…
View attachment 1874164

View attachment 1874165

Now the year is established and the classification (middleweight), the original model needs to be figured out. The front fender was changed out and I’m thinking the chain guard was also. The rest of the bike leaves a hint to either a Spitfire or a flying star. The spitfire would have the same type of chain guard that’s on the bike, and the flying star would have the type that’s on the Corvette, Tiger and American.

 

[anders1]

At first glance I thought this might have been my old bike, but not quite. I really love your bike. I would suggest a little TLC, maybe replacing a couple of the parts that are incorrect, and enjoy. Love it!!

 

[anders1]

!

 

[Crunchysock]

Thanks everyone for all the help. I just got it all put back together this morning and am looking forward to its maiden voyage around the neighborhood this afternoon to work out any bugs.

 

[Allrounderco]

Very nicely done. That bike was the perfect candidate, given its conglomeration of parts, and the rusty chrome wheelset being modern (or semi modern).
Looks like a lot of fun.