I did keep the 27 inch tires. I use 700cc interludes for the 27 inch tire is just a little bit larger then the 700cc. The front gears were usable and the rear gears only needed cleaning. I had to replace the front wheel when I bent it trying to tighten down the spokes. I also had to replace the seat post; the one that came with it was short and I needed some additional height and my local bike shop, in the same family for over 50 years, had one in stock. They also replaced the front wheel and redid the rear gears for me.
On the net I found an extension for the front handlebars thus I moved the handlebar to a higher position. I replace all of the cables with red cables and painted the bike red (it had been a light green but had extension surface rust that I removed and then painted). I also found on the net red clips which I installed.
I installed silver fenders and a new leather seat. Installed red wrappings on the handlebars. I installed a red front bag. The Schwinn is presently it is in storage. Come winter I will install studded tires on my Cannondale mountain bike for use when it snows or ice is a problem.
On days when the roads are clear I will bring out the Schwinn. Riding the Schwinn on clear days is easier then changing the tires on the Cannodale. I notice the increase roll resistance when using the studded tires, but then I also do not lose Traction on the ice when I am using studded tires. Thus till the weather breaks the studded tires stay on the Cannondale and when the roads are clear I ride the Schwinn. When the weather is bad I go with the studded tires. Right now I am riding the Cannodale with 1 1/2 inch wide 26 inch tires. I did not have to change tires till late December last year and I will avoid doing so as long as possible yet his year. When I do the Schwinn will come out for use on nice days.
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