Schwinn Teams Up with Detroit Bikes to Revive the 1965 Collegiate
Takeaway: A timeless cruiser bike receives some modern updates.
Smooth-riding chromoly steel frame available in step-through and step-over versions
Equipped with classic fenders and a kickstand
8-speed grip shift is a big upgrade from the original 5-speed lever shift on the 1965 version
Price: $995
Weight: 29.9 lb. (S/M)
Available August 10 on walmart.com
To celebrate its 125th anniversary, Schwinn collaborated with frame builders at Detroit Bikes to re-create a limited-edition cruiser inspired by one of its most iconic models: the 1965 Schwinn Collegiate Deluxe. The Michigan-made chromoly frame is available in both step-through and straight top tube variations with the original Campus Green paint job. It comes with a comfortable seat, shiny fenders, and a kickstand. The 8-speed grip-shift drivetrain offers a range of gears for cruising and climbing. Wide, 38mm tires keep you rolling smoothly down the bike path or boardwalk so you’ll feel as cool as you look on this stately emerald ride.
Clean Lines
The classic look of retro joints
Smooth Shifting
8-speed Shimano Altus grip-shift
Sleek Pedals
Heck, ride ’em barefoot to the beach
Chrome Fenders
Look sharp and keep your pants clean
Comfy Seat
Supple enough for long rides
What was described as a “light weight” with “real get-up-and-go” in Schwinn’s 1965 catalogue has been surpassed by today's technology, so Schwinn and Detroit Bikes created a handsome, enjoyable ride with just the right updates to keep up with the times. It’s a comfortable bike mostly meant for enjoying the day and pedaling around as if you were on vacation, with no real rush to get anywhere.
THE BREAKDOWN: SCHWINN COLLEGIATE
Frame 4130 Chromoly steel
Fork Rigid high-tensile steel
Wheels Aluminum double wall
Tires Kenda K-193 700x38c
Handlebar Classic aluminum urban
Stem Aluminum threadless 2 bolt
Seat post Aluminum micro adjust
Drivetrain 8-speed Shimano Altus
Cassette 12-32t
Brakes Tektro alloy caliper
Crank Samox aluminum 38t w/ chainguard
Pedals VP Urban alloy/resin platform
Saddle Velo Urban Comfort
Extras Full coverage fenders, semi ergo synthetic hand stitched grips, aluminum kickstand
Sizes S/M and M/L
Geometry and Frame Options
As a cruiser bike, the Collegiate is designed to put its rider in an upright position that’s easy on the back and wrists, and ideal for taking in the scenery around you. Both versions (step-through and straight top tube) are available in sizes S/M or M/L. If you tend to have trouble getting on and off or stopping, you might like the step-through version, which makes it easier for shorter riders to stand over the bike comfortably.
Component Highlights
The grip-shift drivetrain clicks between gears smoothly and intuitively, and trusty rim brakes bring you to a gentle stop. The classic-looking gumwall tires are 38mm wide, which is great for soaking up small bumps and cracks in the boardwalk, and for giving you lots of grip through the corners on your way to the ice cream shop. The durable aluminum wheels add a bit to the bike’s weight, but should keep their shape throughout any kind of bumps and potholes you might encounter. The slightly-curved handlebar isn’t as dramatic as some super-wide cruiser bars, but still has enough room to attach a bell or basket. The bike is also equipped with shiny chrome fenders to keep the puddles from splashing up onto your sandals.
Ride impressions
Steel bikes often have such a special feel to them, and the Collegiate is no exception. It is on the heavier side, yes, but it rolls down the block buttery-smooth once you get it going. This one takes tight corners well—I think the narrower handlebars help with that—and doesn’t feel like a big boaty bike that necessitates super wide corners. The ergonomic grips felt comfortable under my hands, and the upright geometry allowed me to relax, giving me a sense of ease and control as I pedaled down the block to the farmers market. The kickstand was nice when I had to hop off real quick without finding a perfect spot to lean it, and then it was easy to load my fruit and flowers into the basket I put on and head home. The Schwinn Collegiate seems to say, “slow down—it’s summer.” If the charm of this bike speaks to you, hurry up to order one when it goes on sale August 10—it’s a limited edition model.
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