The Schwinn Bicycle Company was founded by Ignaz Schwinn in Chicago in 1895, and grew to become the dominant manufacturer of American bicycles through most of the 20th century. For most Americans, Schwinn was once synonymous with bikes. By the early 1980′s the company was in decline due to poor management decisions and finally declared bankruptcy in 1992.
After a series of exchanges the Schwinn brand was purchased by Dorel Industries, and you can now find bikes bearing the name in discount stores. Collectors value classic 20th century models and often hand-restore them to new or like-new condition.
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My first bike was a bright red Schwinn ten speed. They were so rare then folks on ten speeds would stop to talk when we saw another one on the road.
It was a sacrifice for my mom to get it for me, but it was super cool.