I need help with a decision on two bike please. There are no wrong opinions so let 'em rip

[Saving Tempest]

I buy to ride, not flip so to me it would depend on my desire to own it. It's a beauty all right.

 

[schwinnderella]

The higgins is the better buy but I think $500.00 is too much? Is the bike a middleweight or balloon tire? Seems to me when I have seen this model before it was a middleweight.

 

[sccruiser]

Higgins all the way! the bike has soul. I dig it.

 

[Frank & Pam (SKIDKINGS)]

Ah let's see...the Higgins. As several have already said offer $300-$350 see what happens. Also they say it rides good...you are only one that can decide if it rides good for you ! Ride before you buy, especially on a fifties bike you do plan on riding. Frames, seat heights, wheel bases were all over the board on 26" bikes then.

 

[vincev]

The only thing on the "Schwinn" thats good is the 7 speed hub,otherwise its junk.Go with the Higgins.

 

[Nashman]

Higgins hands down...………..

 

[redline1968]

Mid century Higgins... :0

 

[Superman1984]

The higgins is the better buy but I think $500.00 is too much? Is the bike a middleweight or balloon tire? Seems to me when I have seen this model before it was a middleweight.

It should be a middleweight if what I have read here is correct. I have a '39 framed rider straight bar project & a '57 frame project identical to this. All you can fit is 26x2.125 tires and they're close depending on tire selection.

 

[GTs58]

Like everyone has said, the schwinn isnt really a Schwinn..
I would pass on both at $500 each and spend the money on a real Schwinn.
You will be glad you did.

+1 on that.

And between the two in question, the looks of the C.Schwinn, other than the chain ring and seat, kicks that Sears bike in the rear fender.

 

[Wanted33]

Thanks for all of help help folks. There were concerns (and I'll leave it at that) about the bike, so I passed. Plus, a busted hot water heater took a chunk of money out of my pocket. The American dream don'tcha know. There will be others that come along. Unfortunately we will be out of town for the swap meet on 02/01. Sad as I live approx. 5 miles from the Cabarrus Arena. Just my luck.

BTW, I had the opportunity to meet our friend Mike "bikemonkey" yesterday. He did some work on a couple hubs for me. Mike's a fine man, and it was a pleasure meeting him.