Road Test/Bike Review (1990) SCHWINN Paramount OS/OS-26
 

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Is it really 650b? The typical 26" tubular tire is 650c.

It's funny how 650B was picked up by MTBs more recently and rebranded as "27.5". Just to keep the nomenclature more simple, I'd imagine. :(

good question.

I only see "650B" on the last page in the specs. Everywhere else, they use the term "26 inch".
I've got a recumbent with 650C wheels, running 23mm width tires. That would be what I'd expect to see on the small wheel Paramount.
I've built a second set of wheels for the 'bent, using actual 26" rims and running 26 x 1 inch tires. I do need to move the brake pads a few mm, but otherwise they are compatible.
Oddly, it's getting harder to find narrow 26" tires now than 650C.

The trend towards "small" road wheels was driven by triathletes, IIRC, but that fad seems to have run its course. The small wheels do make a lot of sense for small frames, though.

Steve in Peoria

huh, interesting. I never knew Schwinn made 650b Paramounts, I agree it does make since for smaller frames. Anyone around here have a 26inch/650b Paramount?

+1 to the 26" = 650c comments. My recent Zunow pickup has these, and it's really fun.

Re: the Paramount in the article, it's got the Modolo death stem :innocent:

GREAT article!!

Thank you for sharing !!!!!

I have a 1991 PDG !!!!:)

Great article, I’ve got a 91 Waterford OS Paramount, didn’t know they made a 26 version.
Tim

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91 Paramount OS