1971 Schwinn Paramount P15

The Schwinn Paramount went through a few iterations, well summarized here, during its tenure from 1959-1979.  This beauty is a 1971 P15, which is the road racing geometry with a triple ring in front, 5 cassette rear model.  Almost all original: Campagnolo Nuevo record components, Weinmann rims, original chain and cables.  Only thing new is bar tape and prior owner replaced original tires with ones that haven't dried for 40+ years beyond the ability to hold any air.

Gloriously shining in the morning - I don't know how it gets any better than this.



New bar tape.  Original Schwinn brakes.  Probably newer pads installed, they appear to be coolstop material.



Beautiful quill stem, Campagnolo headset, original cables, "suicide brakes" second levers, Cinelli bars.

Original Schwinn.



There is no saddle more comfortable than a Brooks, but this one alone weighs like 2.5lbs.



Square taper bottom bracket spins with barely any friction, the friction shifters are an art to have a quiet ride.



Lugged construction with red outline - is it just me or have modern carbon wonder bikes lost the artistry?

Two inches of rake.  You don't ride this bike, you glide on it like a magic carpet.



Campagnolo 15 speed drivetrain.  Very minimal front shifter.  Gear ratios stamped right onto rear derailleur.  This was the touring model with the wider gear ratio range and 13-36 cassette and a 36-54 chainring set.
















Beautiful cable housing.

Derailleur still works perfectly.



Subtle logos fit a frame like this.

That's a head tube, quill stem and fork I could stare at for hours.  



Seat tube junctions do two things.  1. Hold the frame and seat post together. 2. Display mankind's ability to command materials into art form.



The Schwinn Paramount P15 and it's historic head badge.