This is the second of five Schwinn adverts in Boy’s Life magazine that capture a historic point in the history of the derailleur - the point at which derailleur bikes became mainstream mass-market products sold to ordinary folk rather than to cycling enthusiasts.

In this 1961 Schwinn advert the 10-speed Continental and the 8-speed Varsity seem identical to the 1960 models. The Schwinn Racer has, however, reverted to being a hub geared bike.

I like the reference to the ‘Schwinn 10 Speed Bike Manual’ which contains “technical dope on how to ride... how to adjust the gears... getting the most out of your new 10 speed Schwinn”.

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• Publisher: Boy’s Life
• Country: USA
• Date: May 1961
• Derailleur brands: Simplex, see also Schwinn
• Derailleurs: Simplex Tour de France