User Manual
In the 1890s a new technology was all the rage: the bicycle.
Bicycles offered riders transportation, recreation, and a sense
of freedom. Early models had an enormous front wheel and
no gearing, but a revolution was just around the corner.
After moving to the U.S. from Germany, Ignaz Schwinn
developed a new version of the “Safety” bicycle, which
resembled what we ride today. This design attracted the
attention of the investor Adolph Arnold, and in 1895, the
Arnold Schwinn & Company was born. They began producing
bicycles In Chicago, Illinois, under the trade name “World.”
Soon, business was booming. Many bicycle companies
suffered after the arrival of the Ford Model A, but Arnold
Schwinn & Company ourished, using the opportunity to
build market share. By 1908, he bought out his partner,
dropped ‘Arnold’ from the name, and became what we
know today: Schwinn.
In 1910s, Schwinn bought two motorcycle companies to
create Excelsior-Henderson, a brand that became known
for its excellent engineering and luxury looks. However,
motorcycle popularity waned in the 1920s. Schwinn
eventually closed Excelsior-Henderson, returning its
focus to bicycles.
It’s been
an amazing
125 years.
Around that time, Ignaz Schwinn transitioned to retirement,
handing the business down to his son, Frank. Ignaz Schwinn
would pass away in 1948, leaving behind a legacy and name
that has become synonymous with bicycles.
Schwinn survived the Great Depression thanks to new
innovations and popular designs. The balloon tire was
introduced in 1933 and quickly became the industry standard.
New models featured steel welding for added durability, and
cruiser designs enjoyed signicant popularity. This included
the Aerocycle, Cycleplane, and Cycle-Truck – a bicycle that
could carry 150 lbs. in its basket alone.
In the 1940s, the company continued to expand and innovate.
Front wheel brakes were added for improved performance,
while accessories like headlights served both function and
style. The 1946 catalog even featured stars like Bob Hope,
Humphrey Bogart, and Lauren Bacall.
SCHWINN 125TH ANNIVERSARY
Let’s take a look back and reect on the
journey of Schwinn over the many decades.