My name is Shawn and I’ve been an avid collector all my life. About 20 years ago my dad restored his boyhood bicycle–a 1947 Schwinn model DB97XE. Once I saw that bike I was hooked. Being something of a researcher I started studying balloon tire bicycles. I was amazed at the style, design, and innovation of these machines. I bought my first classic bike in June of 2009 (a 1956 Phantom) and haven’t looked back.

As the byline says the goal of this site is “Dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of vintage American bicycles”. Whether you are looking for information, a collector, enjoy riding, or are doing a nut and bolt restoration then I hope this site offers something for you. To that end if you wish to contribute original literature, photographs, or write a guest blog please contact me.

Bicycles, unlike a lot of other collectibles, have utility. They can be studied, collected, and enjoyed just as any other collectible but you can also ride them! This is probably the greatest joy of the hobby for me. When I ride one of my bikes it carries me away to simpler more carefree times. I ride often and have flown out to Long Beach, CA a couple of times to ride in the Cyclone Coaster monthly ride. In 2017 about 40 people from across the country met in Nashville, TN for a ride which was a blast. I currently have about 80 bikes with most of them being prewar balloon tire bikes. Thanks for visiting and welcome to the site!