PRESERVATION BICYCLE #5: 1978 Schwinn Twin Tandem
This is a Schwinn Twin Tandem built in Chicago in June of 1978. How do we know the month? Schwinn has an incredible database with every serial number they ever made. This one has a 5 speeds in the back and a rear drum brake. It’s sort of one size fits all. I actually have the same bike, I’m 6’2 and the front fits enough for me to enjoy every second. If I was 5’5, it would fit even better. The Stoker seat is probably 4’10 - 5’8 comfortably and could do taller with the right attitude.
This bike is heavy, klunky, creaky, and will take some love, but it will be the most joyful thing you’ve ever created. I loan mine out to weddings, proms, and first dates on a regular basis, and it’s never been ridden without an enormous smile.
PRESERVATION BICYCLE NUMBER #5
MAKE: Schwinn
MODEL: Twin
YEAR/AGE: 78
SIZE: 5’5 - 6’2 Captain, 4’11 - 5’8 Stoker (limits can be pushed)
ADOPTION FEE: $50
RECOMMENDED REPAIRS:
This beauty definitely needs some love. Some steel wool should take care of the wheels, maybe tubes and tires, but I’ve ridden much worse. New cables, cable housing, and a chain (you might be able to rust bust the chain and keep it turning). Everything EVERYTHING needs cleaning and regreasing. Other upgrades are up to you and your own personal style. Probably 3 2-hours shifts of cleaning and maintenance, and probably for less than $75 in parts.
If you’re up for a real story book adventure, build 2 new 26’’ wheels with a rear 2-speed kick back, a front dyno hub! Add some oversized 26’’ balloon tires (brown or white would look incredible). Find 2 big beautiful brown Brooks Saddles. And finish it off with 2 ding-dong brass bells. Altogether you’ll be looking at the most amazing $600 tandem ever to role the streets of Boise!
BICYCLE HISTORY:
Not a lot to go off here other than it was manufactured in Chicago and looks to have spent the last 20 years in a barn.