Schwinn
American bicycle maker from Chicago, known for the Paramount, Black Phantom, Sting-Ray and Varsity.
Ignaz Schwinn came from Germany and founded the company in Chicago during the first bicycle boom of the 1890s. During the 20th century Schwinn became the largest bicycle maker in the United States.
Balloon-tyre bikes such as the Black Phantom, the Sting-Ray for youngsters and the ten-speed Varsity were found in millions of American homes. The Chicago factory closed in 1983, and the brand has since changed hands several times.
Schwinn’s name in script on the frame.
Sturdy electro-welded frames on the cheaper models.