1953 Schwinn Catalog
Original text and images of the 1953 Schwinn sales brochure. The text below, including the prices, are as written in 1953.
Schwinn Lightweight and Balloon
Bicycle Catalog
Hartman's Cycle Shop
Front and Susquehanna Sts.
Allentown, Pa.
Phone: HE 5-2662
Schwinn Phantom!
With complete equipment to thrill the heart of every boy!
"My new Phantom sure is a beuty - all the fellows say it's the swellest- looking bike in town!"
The Phantom is the finest balloon- tires bike in the Schwinn Line!
*Sturdiest construction, patented cantilever frame
*Schwinn quality fittings and equipment throughout
*Finishes in sparkling colors and chrome trimmings
*Fully protected by the Famous Schwinn Guarantee
You've never seen such a bicycle! Completely equipped with every accessory imaginable to delight the eyes of every youngster. Finest Schwinn craftsmanship throughout. The proudest achievement of three generations of experience in designing and building fine bicycles makes the Phantom the most wonderful bicycle any boy can own!
See the complete history of the Schwinn Phantom.
Schwinn Panther for boys
An Outstanding Combination of Features on One Bicycle
26- inch model D-27
Imagine, the famous Schwinn Spring Fork, powerful Rocket-Ray headlight, super streamlined Schwinn frame, sleek sturdy chainguard, sturdy luggage carrier, extra strong Schwinn tubular rims, and bright, shiny extra-deep fenders - all in one perfect bicycle. Your choice of several modern two-tone color combinations.
What a thrill to actually own this new Schwinn, Pedal and feel its soft smooth effortless ride. The miles run by when you're on your Schwinn. Drop in to see your Schwinn Dealer today. See his complete line - and be sure and ask to see the Schwinn Panther.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Panther.
Schwinn Panther
Dazzling beauty to dream about!
For Girls
Bright shiny fenders, sparkling two-tone baked-on enamel finish. So easy to pedal too, and the Schwinn
knee-action spring fork eliminates uncomfortable road shacks. With the famous Schwinn Quality features. 26 inch model No. D-77.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Panther.
Schwinn Meteor for Boys...
Finest quality at a price to suit every pocket book
This model is equipped with patented, built-in kickstand, streamlined chainguard, plus the Schwinn Exclusive cantilever frame. It's fully protected by the famous Schwinn guarantee. 26 inch model No. D-12.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Meteor.
Schwinn Meteor for Girls...
A real beauty at a price to please your budget. Schwinn construction assures smooth riding Fine features include electro-forged frame, extra strong tubular rims, and built-in kickstand. Guaranteed As-Long-As-You-Own-It. 26 inch model No. D-62.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Meteor.
Schwinn Leader for Boys...
Top natch Schwinn quality and sturdy equipment, including chrome truss rods and powerful torpedo headlight.
Schwinn patented cantilever frame. A fine bicycle at an attractive price. Quality construction throughout. Guaranteed As-Long-As-You-Own-It. 26 inch model No. D-13.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Leader.
Schwinn Leader for Girls...
Sleek lines and smart styling of this bright new Schwinn make it a favorite with girls. They'll enthusiastic over the smart truss rods and streamlined headlight that accent the design. Protected by the famous Schwinn Guarantee. 26 inch model No. D-53.
Schwinn Bikes are Preferred by over 9 to 11!
See the complete history of the Schwinn Leader.
Schwinn Streamliner...
Over 50 beautiful models from which to choose!!!
Favorite of many for its streamlined, beauty and patented cantilever frame, built-in Fenderlite, streamlined tank with built-in horn, sturdy luggage carrier and all the famous Schwinn Exclusive Quality Features. Carries the Famous Schwinn Guarantee. 26 inch model No. B-6.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Streamliner.
Schwinn Starlet...
A luxurious bicycle, completely feminine design, with sparkling trim, white grips and saddle. Choice of attractive color combinations. Holiday rose with summer cloud White; Windswept green with Luscioes Lavender or Summer Cloud white with blue. 26 inch model No. D-67.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Starlet.
Schwinn Deluxe Spitfire...
A beautifully styled bike with the famous Schwinn.
Quality features-at a popular price. Includes streamlined tank, chrome truss rods, headlight, sturdy luggage carrier and kickstand. Guaranteed As-Long-As-You-Own-It. 26 inch model No. D-25.
Schwinn Deluxe Spitfire for Girls...
A combination of trim lines and smart styling! Fully equipped model includes streamlined tank, headlight, chrome truss rods and sturdy luggage carrier with jeweled safety reflector. Fully protected by the famous Schwinn Guarantee. 26-inch model No. D-75.
Schwinn Spitfire....
A popular model for those who must consider price in choosing a bicycle.
In this model you get the famous Schwinn frame that will stand up under years of service. Like all Schwinn models- it carries the Schwinn Guarantee. 26 inch model No. D-24.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Spitfire.
Schwinn Spitfire for Girls...
Sturdy, dependable and streamlined for smooth, easy riding. Made with all the Famous Schwinn Quality Features, too!- Guaranteed as-long-as-you-own-it. See this beauty at your dealer today. For dependability and service, there is no better buy. 26 inch model No. D-74.
A popular model for those who must consider price in choosing a bicycle.
Schwinn Hornet
America's Favorite Bicycle
What a combination! Trim dashing lines, superior Schwinn workmanship, and a complete line-up of equipment including streamlined tank with built-in horn, powerful Rocket-Ray headlight, sturdy luggage carrier, and truss rods. No wonder more kids choose the Schwinn Hornet than any other bicycle...and the low price will amaze you. Fully guaranteed As-Long-As-You-Own-It. Ask to see the "Hornet" at your Schwinn Dealer. 26 inch model No. D-19.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Hornet.
Schwinn Hornet for Girls...
America's biggest buy in girl's bikes!
Elegant styling and complete equipment including streamlined chainguard, tank with built-in horn, Rocket-Ray headlampl, exclusive built-in kickstand, sturdy luggage carrier, and sparkling trim 26 inch model No. D-69.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Hornet.
Schwinn Hornet for Boys 7 to 10...
Equipped with tank and built-in horn, Torpedo headlight, chrome truss rods, and the patented Schwinn Cantilever frame.
A popular and leading choice for those who want a fully equipped, sturdy, bicycle for the growing boy. 24-inch model No. J-36.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Hornet.
Schwinn Phantom for Boys 7 to 10...
Juvenile model of America's fines bicycle! This dazzling 24-in. model has the famous Schwinn patented Cantilever frame, chrome plated fenders, Spring Fork, Schwinn Cyclelock, chrome trimmed tank with built-in horn, Rocket-Ray headlight. 24-inch model No. J-37.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Phantom.
Schwinn Meteor for Girls 7 to 10...
Smooth styling and sturdy construction combined with reasonable price-finished in attractive shades of mar-resistant baked-an enamel.
Built-in kickstand, chainguard, full-width fenders. With Schwinn Quality Featurs. 24 inch model No. J-80. Boys model No. J-30.
What's the Right Age for
Child training authorities agree that bicycle riding develops the child mentally as well as physically. It gives him a sense
of independence and builds muscular coordination.
Cycle-Aid training wheels can be attached to bicycles of all sizes, and removed after the child learns to balance. With this
added safety feature, even the younger child, from 2 1/2 to 3 years, can enjoy the thrill of owning his own bike.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Meteor.
Schwinn Spitfire for Boys 7 to 10...
Designed to give growing youngster dependable service and many years of pleasure.
Streamlined chainguard, sturdy kickstand and full width fenders. Like all Schwinn bicycles it carries the Famous Schwinn Guarantee. 24 inch model No. J-23 girls. Model No. J-73.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Spitfire.
Schwinn Deluxe Spitfre for Boys 7 to 10...
A brand new, fully equipped model- expertly designed for easy pedaling. Equipment includes built-in tank with electric horn, sturdy kickstand and chainguard, powerful headlight, and comfortable saddle. 24-inch model No. J-29. Girls model No. J-79.
Every Schwinn Bike is Guaranteed As-Long-As-You-Own-It...
Schwinn Hornet for boys 4 to 7...
Fine design and rugged construction by the famous Schwinn craftsman so you know it's safe.
Superb finish and heavy plate on exposed fittings to with stand hardest wear. Includes tank, horn, rods, headlight, and kickstand, 20 inch Model No. J-46 Girls Model No. J-96.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Hornet.
Schwinn Deluxe Spitfire for Boys 4 to 7...
A brand new model beautifully equipped and superbly model Equipped with kickstand, built-in electric horn, powerful torpedo headlight, and streamlined chainguard. Fully protected byt the Famous Schwinn Guarantee. 20 inch model No. J-26. Girls Model No. J-76.
The First Two Wheeler?
Choose the correct size. The child's first bicycle should fit properly. It is unwise for the child to be forced to ride a larger size bike that "he'll grow into," Added weight creates greater hazards, and being unable to touch the ground with his feet and control the bike may reesult in unnecessary falls for the rider. When the time comes to buy your youngster's first bike... Buy the best-buy a Schwinn!
Schwinn Meteor for Girls 5 to 7...
A streamlined beuty that's finished is bright enamel.
All parts are of high quality materials. Equipped with streamlined chainguard, Schwinn tubular rims - plus all the Schwinn Quality Features. 20-inch model No. J-90 Boys model No. J-40.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Meteor.
Schwinn Bantam for Boys and Girls 3 to 5...
Small 16 inch wheels are ideal size to fit the little folks.
Equipped with Schwinn Cycle Aid (as shown) it becames a safe, easy way to learn to ride. Inclues coaster brake, semi-pneumatic tires.
16-inch model No. J-16 for Boys. 16 inch model No. J-66 for Girls.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Bantam.
Schwinn Spitfire for Boys 4 to 7...
It's beautifully streamlined and finished in bright enamel to catch every eye. All parts are of high quality materials, designed to stand up under hard use. Equipped with chainguard and kickstand plus all the Schwinn Quality Feautes. 20-inch model No. J-20. Girls Model No. J-70.
Schwinn Craftmanships Throughout...So You Know They're Safe!
Schwinn Traveler
"Gee, Schwinn Lightweights feel light as a feather and ride like the breeze! and they're American made, too!"
For Sport...
Utility...
or Touring!
For those who want a fine lightweight bicycle, fully equipped with all the popular accessories. Schwinn caliper hand brakes, famous three- speed Sturney. Archer rear hub, self-generating electric headlight, and roomy saddle bag. Schwinn Exclusive Quality Features throughout in smart styling. Made in America so you know it's the best, with service readily available.
26 inch in adult size model No. W-18.
24 inch in boy's model No. W-25.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Traveler.
Schwinn World Traveler for Girls
The same quality features and many popular accessories in the girl's New World Traveler.
It's light weight makes it so easy to pedal, and the three-speed gearshift just eats up the hills. 26 inch model No. W-68.
Three speed hubs derailleur, and the famous Sturney Archer hub are available.
Lighting sets are a necessity for night riding. All of the well known makes will fit your Schwinn.
Schwinn World for Men...
A perfect choice for those who want a fine quality lightweight at a reasonable price.
Schwinn quality throughout and fully equipped with chainguard, kickstand, and coaster brake. Hand brakes are available at a slight extra charge. 26 inch model No. W.I. Girls Model No. W-51.
See the complete history of the Schwinn World.
Schwinn Sports...
A new sports model with the latest in upright frames. For pleasure riding or in group competition, the Sports is a top performer. Equipped with drop bars, three-speed and available in sparkling colors, including violet and terra cotta. Made in America by Schwinn. 26-inch model No. w-14.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Sport.
Schwinn Varsity for Ladies...
Superb styling and smooth performance makes the Varsity a top choice among lightweight enthusiasts.
The 3-speed gear shift makes riding easier, and front and rear caliper brakes assure safe stops. 26 inch model No. W615. Boys Model No. W-115.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Varsity.
Schwinn Super Sports...
Ultra modern sports model with upright frame, tan wall, high pressure Schwinn Puff tires... has same equipment as W-14, plus high quality alloy materials in brakes, handlebars, stem, and rims. Cames in Violet. Tarra Catta, and beautiful opolescent colors. 26 inch model W-15.
Schwinn Welterweight...
Here's the perfect answer to carrying heavy loads- lightly and easily!
For newsboys, light deliveries, rentals - or for ordinary pleassureriding. Double bar frame and truss rods. Equipped with heavy duty spokes. Carries the Famous Schwinn Guarantee. 26-inch model No. W-13.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Welterweight.
Schwinn Tandem...
For a wonderful new thrill in cycling pleasure. The Schwinn Tandem is "Close-coupled" with a short wheelbase for easy. graceful handling. It's extra sturdy, too, made from seamless drawn tubing with dural front and rear hubs. Fully Guaranteed 26 inch model No. T-5.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Tandem.
Schwinn Cycelock...
makes your bike theft-proof. Gives you a year's loss protection - FREE. Available on 26 and 24 inch lightweight and balloon models.
Saddle Bags
are added accessory that make touring a pleasure and a joy.
Pedals
for every need including rat trap racing pedals and padded touring pedals.
Schwinn Tourist
"Boy, what a beauty! Look at that chrome trim and those racy lines - That's for me!"
Continental Design in a Fine Quality Lightweight
A smartly styled, fully equipped, 26-inch lightweight with three- speed gears, generator and light set, stainless steel fenders
and roomy saddle bag that make this new Schwinn Tourist and Outstanding beauty. Its fine quality features include a special
lightweight frame of fines seamless drawn moly tubing. Tan wall Schwinn Breeze tires. Model C-18.
26-inch Schwinn Continental for Men, Model C-15.
26-inch Schwinn Continental for Ladies, Model C-65.
26-inch Schwinn Clubman for Men, Model C-16.
Schwinn Paramount...
The world's finest bicycle! Full Paramount racing specifications throughout.
This model custom built to order only. Available with three or four speed Sturney-Archer hubs. Derailleurs and other special accessories available at extra cost. 26-inch model No. P-31. Girls Model No. P-81.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Paramount.
Schwinn Paramount Racer...
Custom built to your extra specifications. Paramounts double tapered racing fron tforks. Reynolds 531 or Accles and Pallack Bulled tubes, Special Paramount 3 pin racing crank set, racing hubs. Adjustable racing handlebar stem and selection at bars. Model No. P-32.
Schwinn Bicycles are the Fines Made!
Schwinn Juvenile Traveler...
Whether it be pleasure, utility or touring, this juvenile Traveler lives up to its name.
Standard equipment includes 3-speed gear shift, front and rear caliper brakes, generator light set, roomy saddle bag, sparkling chrome fenders. Brilliant opalescent colors. 24-inch model No. W-25.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Traveler.
Schwinn Traveler for Girls...
An outstanding choice for the younger girl! Comes in beautiful opalescent colors. Standard equipment includes 3-speed gears, front and rear caliper brakes, generator light set, roamy saddle bag-plus all the famous Schwinn QUality Features. 24-inch model No. W 75.
Schwinn Varsity...
Designed exclusively for the younger set!
schwinn construction and sleek beauty- plus equipment that includes 3 speed gears, front and rear hand caliper brakes, chainguard, kickstand and long lasting enamel finish. Fully protected by the famous Schwinn Guarantee. 24-inch model No. 235.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Varsity.
Schwinn Varsity for Girls...
Smart styling that's sure to please! It's light and easy to handle with equipment that includes 3-speed gear shift, front and rear caliper brakes, chainguard, kickstand and finished in a long-lasting enamel. Protected by the Schwinn Guarantee. 24-inch model No. W-735.
Schwinn World...
On Ultra smart lightweight at a very attractive price!
Has all the features of the adult models. It's sleek, durable, and finished in newest colors and trim. Equipped with coaster brake, chrome rims, mattress type saddle and built-in kickstand. 24-inch model No. W-24. Girls Model No. W-74.
See the complete history of the Schwinn World.
Schwinn Pixie...
America's only 20-inch lightweight- Sturdier construction, sader to rider. It's light in weight and easy to handle - a pleasure for youngster to ride. Equipment includes, coaster brake, chainguard and built-in Kickstand. Fully Guaranteed. 20-inch model No. W-20. Girls Model No. W-70.
See the complete history of the Schwinn Pixie.
Gives You More for Your Money...Longer Service!
Only Schwinn can Offer these quality features that mean so much more in riding pleasure, so many extra miles of safe riding. Schwinn Exclusive Quality Features are built into every Schwinn Bicycle made.
Schwinn Distinctive Design
Only Schwinn has the exciting beauty...the design the whole world recognizes as the Schwinn mark of qaulity.
Electro-Forged Frame...
There's super strength in Schwinn's exclusive frame construction... with specially designed head and hanger.
Dur-A-Roll Bearings
For smoother riding and easier pedaling. Precision made by Schwinn and triple heat-treated for extra hardness and longer wear.
Tubular Rims...
5 times stronger by laboratory test...yet lighter in weight. There is a striking difference...because Schwinn builds them, they're not available on any other bike!
Long-Life Hubs...
Exclusive Schwinn front hub design with replaceable cups and cones for a smoother ride and long trouble free service...sed only on Schwinn Bicycles!
These Exclusive Features, plus many other special design features on individual models, make Schwinn America's leading bicycle!
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