Is there a difference between Schwinn springer and non-springer frames?

[Tikibar]

A noob question, but is there a difference between a Schwinn frame that has a springer fork and a frame that doesn't?

I have some prewar straightbar frames. Do I have a choice between using either a springer or non-springer fork, or is the frame made for one or the other? How can I tell the frames apart?

My question is in regards to prewar straightbar, but would like to hear about other Schwinn frame types too. Thanks

 

[Freqman1]

Generally speaking for prewar it doesn't make a difference. Just need to make sure you get a boys prewar fork though because prewar boys and girls are different fork tube lengths and are different than post war. Post war boys and girls are the same. V/r Shawn

 

[island schwinn]

Locking fork frames will have a tab welded inside bottom to align the slot in the lower bearing cup.

 

[Tikibar]

Thanks, good to know I can choose a regular fork or a springer for my frame.

Some prewar Schwinn springers have an extra little tube, like a big macaroni, welded to the underside of the downtube. What's that for?

 

[GTs58]

^^^ Thats for bumpers so the fork leg will not hit and dent the tank.

 

[Tikibar]

^^^ Thats for bumpers so the fork leg will not hit and dent the tank.

Interesting, that's a great feature to protect the tank. Wish they had continued adding those to the postwar tank bikes

 

[Kickstand3]

^^^ Thats for bumpers so the fork leg will not hit and dent the tank.

So frames with bumpers are specific for Springers

 

[Kickstand3]

^^^ Thats for bumpers so the fork leg will not hit and dent the tank.

They should have put those bumpers on other manufacturers especially Shelby Springers

 

[GTs58]

So frames with bumpers are specific for Springers

Specific to factory pieces that were originally equipped with a springer & a tank. No tank, no bumpers. Tank with no springer, no bumpers.

 

[Kickstand3]

Specific to factory pieces that were originally equipped with a springer & a tank. No tank, no bumpers. Tank with no springer, no bumpers.

So this fork would not take a bumper
Iv seen a lot of Schwinn Springers out there with out bumpers