On the negative side, the bike is heavy, and the brakes are of inferior construction — they are the old “side pull” brakes versus the newer and more efficient V-brake they are putting on mountain bikes these days. What does this mean? There is a greater potential for the brakes to get out of alignment and constantly rub on the rim, and the brakes are harder to adjust than necessary.

I was interested to learn that “Pacific Bicycle” now owns Schwinn, along with GT, Mongoose, Murray, Roadmaster, and a host of other brands. I remembered Pacific as a very low cost bicycle manufacturer for Walmart and other stores that used to sell bikes under the name “Pacific”. From what I have learned, all their manufacturing is in China, and they are trying to climb the quality/value curve by purchasing known name brands and improving product quality. The bottom line is that you are not buying the old “made in the USA Schwinn”, but are instead purchasing a well-made department store bike. From my perspective, the bike is more than good enough.