On a trip to Europe in 1932 Frank Schwinn noticed some bicycles were equipped with oversize tires and could travel rough roads due to the cushion the tires provided. In 1933 Schwinn introduced the balloon tire Motorbike and revolutionized the bicycle industry in the United States. The balloon tire measures 26” x 2 1/8^th compared to previous tires measuring 28” x 1 ½”. For the next 26 years the balloon tire bike would rule the roads.

The Model B10E was the top-of-the-line model that included a horn and headlight. The bike was designed to look like motorcycles of the day. The tank was actually a toolbox and the canister hanging under it is for the dry cell battery to power the headlight. The horn is a friction horn. This bike is badged as an Excelsior, a motorcycle company Schwinn acquired in 1912. Except for the tires and grips this bike is original, is fully functional, and is ridden regularly. Owner: Shawn Sweeney