58cm Ross Signature

The Tom Kellog designed Ross Signature models (290S, 292S & 294S) are some of the nicest bicycles the Allentown, PA company ever produced.


The middle child of the Signature line-up is Justin’s favorite as the Golden Arrow group performs as great as it looks. The metallic, deep aqua blue looks amazing and the triple butted Ishiwata tubing provides a light and responsive ride.


A complete restoration was performed with all bearing systems cleaned, lubed and new bearing balls installed. New tires, tubes and cables were all that needed replacing as this bike saw very little use in its 27 years and was stored properly. It’s ready to pound the pavement; it just needs your legs to provide the power. This 58cm bicycle is for sale at Vic's Classic Bikes for only $575.

• Make: Ross


• Model: 1984 Signature 292S


• Frame size: 58cm


• Tubing: Ishiwata EX Cr-Mo Triple Butted


• Wheels: 36h 700c Araya aluminum alloy rims, SS spokes, SR hubs, 14-28t Shimano 6sp freewheel


• Tires: Panaracer Pasela Tourguard 700c x 32mm


• Crankset: 52/42 Shimano Golden Arrow


• BB: Shimano


• Headset: Original (unknown make)


• Brakes: Shimano Golden Arrow levers and calipers


• Derailleurs & Shifters: Shimano Golden Arrow


• Saddle: Original Ross Concor copy


• Seatpost: SR


• Handlebar: SR Custom


• Stem: SR Custom

Schwinn Pixie Restoration

Restoration of vintage bicycles is a rewarding endeavor. Transforming an undesirable cast-away into a prized jewel is very satisfying - restoring a precious heirloom even more so.

Recently, a Cincinnati customer brought her own childhood vintage Schwinn Pixie for restoration. Though she might have found a new or better condition Pixie elseware, she wanted this specific bicycle restored for her daughter.

The Pixie needed a lot of work. The frame needed a deep cleaning, fenders and all other bright metal needed to be re-chromed. The saddle and grips would need to be replaced. The heavy hard rubber tires needed to be replaced with new wheels that used lighter modern tires & tubes.

To satisfy my own curiosity I started to clean one of the fenders and was surprised to find the original triple-chrome plating still in good condition. What a testament to American quality in the 1960's! It took plenty of chrome cleaner and elbow grease, but the the fenders started to shine. The underside of the fenders required a coat of silver zinc oxide paint to keep any future corosion at bay. After a thorough cleaning of the entire bicycle, I was ready for reassembly. The Pixie now looks and handles beautifully, and the integrity of the personal value of this bicycle was maintained.

Laura Wallace and her new bike

Laura was looking for some economical transportation and found this Free Spirit within her budget. Brought it in to Vics for an evaluatioin and to get it up and rolling. The origional drive train was rather primitive and needed alot of work. On the upside, the tires had been replaced recently and were ok. The decision was made to remove the shifters, derailleurs, and shift cables. Replace the 5 speed cluster with a new singlespeed freewheel, fit a new chain and brake pads. Laura is now enjoying her vintage singlespeed conversion that didnt break the bank.

Louisville Bicycle Maps are in!

THE Louisville bicycle map. Wondering where to ride? Want to know about the secret underground bike path that connects city hall with the river? Ok, that one is purely imaginary, but separate illusion from reality with a free map from Vic's Classic Bikes.

It's produced by Bike Louisville, and even includes a diagram (in picture below, lower left corner) on riding properly (in a straight line and at least four feet from parked cars or other obstructions) and gives all the local bicycle laws.

You can also see the maps here.




by John Wade