Project: The Little Red Bastard 1/4
I’ve been thinking about getting a cruiser for the simplicity of having a bike that requires nothing to ride, no special pedals or pants or gear. I found this Schwinn Panther, probably about a 2007 from a department store, and thought—that’s the cruiser I’m looking for.
I found it at a pawn shop and got this bicycle and the Diamondback 24” BMX Cruiser for $80. I was driving a 1973 Super Beetle without seats at the time but had to take the bikes apart to fit them in the back of the car. I rebuilt the hubs, added a comfortable saddle, and cut the handlebars by about 6 inches for a more comfortable ride. I used this as a commuter for a year or so and then had the idea to upcycle this simple ride which became The Little Red Bastard—the first Oliver Bicycle Works design and build.
