Build a Custom 1952 Schwinn Boss Klunker Bicycle

[@TheNostalgicNeighborhood]

Not sure why it took so long, but the KZbin algorithm placed you in my recommendations this morning, and I’m glad it did. New subscriber. We need more BMX content on KZbin, but not only bike builds, but more with engaging narration and stories like these. Great job. Keep it up!!!

[@RadMattic]

Wow, thank you!

[@lukewalker1051]

Nicest klunker on the planet. Thanks for sharing your artisanship and Happy New Year.

[@RadMattic]

Happy new year! Thank you for the positive comments!

[@jojo73]

Rad build!

[@RadMattic]

Thanks! I’m really proud of how it turned out. Glad you think it’s rad!

[@backyardchoppers4571]

I like the fact that you used only a couple of special tools bb tool specifically to build a perfect vintage bike. Looks great bdrother.

[@RadMattic]

Thank you! Yes, I have some super old tools! I don't always need the latest! Some of my tools even belonged to my Grandfather!

[@JogieGlenMait16]

that bottom bracket conversion kit is pure genius.

[@RadMattic]

Yes, I was happy to find the Black Ops kit! Thanks! I believe Truvativ makes one as well.

[@fatrobdouble]

it really isn't though, not in this context. The Profile crank he used was actually designed around the American BB shell. He could have just pressed in the cups, sealed bearings, and installed the cranks. Instead, we have multiple kludges and the threaded adaptor was both an unnecessary step plus they are prone to slip.

[@bryanmacias8162]

Great video. I'm looking forward to seeing more bikes.

[@RadMattic]

More to come! Thank you so much!

[@seansims8805]

I was the last kid to get a diamond frame bmx ...I rode these frames into the early 80s soon as I earned enough to get a new bmx bike everyone wanted to chase girls and get in cars... I started MTB riding a few years later

[@RadMattic]

Like so many of my friends too, they got cars, girlfriends, etc. Somehow, I made BMX and bikes an obsession! When I was about 7 years old I rode to some trails by my house where some teenagers were jumping their old balloon tire Schwinn bikes - I was hooked!

[@drewman5740]

Thanks for sharing & posting … Nice Build and I bet the ride is a great! … Got to love those old school “Scott Mathauser Brake Pads” you used on the front Dia-Comp MX-1000 brakes …

[@RadMattic]

Haha, I guess you could say those Scott Mathauser pads really know how to "stop" the show!

[@nbprotocol5406]

I had a schwinn typhoon that i put motorcycle handlebars on. I put a 3 speed sturmy archer rear hub. Yes those boat anchors will haul ass down hill!!

[@RadMattic]

I have a 1957 Schwinn Typhoon that I'll be doing a video on in the near future. It would be a shame to "Klunkerize" it though! It's in such good original condition, I may just clean it up, polish up all the chrome and leave it original! Now, I'm on the lookout for more Schwinn's I can turn into Klunkers!

[@siriosstar4789]

i had one similar to that i bought in 1958 for $52 . my dad paid half . single speed with reverse pedal brakes . had it until1985. best bike ever .bombproof.

[@RadMattic]

These old Schwinns are a blast to ride. I have another one to video next! It's currently set up as a 5 speed. I believe it's a mid 1960's frame. Also have two completes in great condition. A 1957 single speed Typhoon coaster brake and a 1957 Corvette 3-speed coaster brake!

[@yardsalecycles]

Everyone should have a klunker

[@RadMattic]

I agree! Already planning my next Klunker build! So much fun to ride a simple bike.

[@b.s.adventures9421]

Cool build

[@RadMattic]

Thank you sir!

[@b.s.adventures9421]

When the bb is loose like that you can install the bb and hammer the frame shell to fit. Then use some green locktite to help even more. Might be difficult to do without damaging the paint though. . I’ve always left the patina and never rd worried about it. Those bolt in kits are better anyways. I do the same thing with those too.

[@RadMattic]

LockTite is a good tip for sure!

[@drugsdelaney2907]

I’d sell my soul for BOSS cruiser bars!

[@RadMattic]

They have a cool factor for sure!

[@bigbird2451]

Mine is a '56. I cut a 1 inch steer tube out of an old Rock Shox for a set of Hannebrink DH forks and some custom extra wide bars and I'm using Profile SS cranks. I can't really ride it due to my MS, but it was a lot of fun to build.

[@RadMattic]

I'd like to see that bike of yours! Sounds very cool. Hope you are doing well my friend.

[@ctr1825]

Que linda bicicleta

[@RadMattic]

¡Gracias! La bici es lo máximo, ¿no? ¡Listo para dar una vuelta!

[@Bigjumper]

Love the build Tim!

[@RadMattic]

Thanks Big Jumper! Hey, I have another Schwinn Klunker for an upcoming video soon. I think I'm going to ask viewers what kind of Klunker I should create with it!

[@jonathanbonifacio9417]

So Sick!!! Thanks 👍🏼

[@RadMattic]

Glad you like it! Thanks!

[@djantix1200]

Excellent build!! That looks really cool man!!

[@RadMattic]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@edwardallan197]

I love what you are doing. Me too. My hood is flat. I am putting a CB on a very light old steel road frame. ❤

[@RadMattic]

Right on! I love riding these old Klunkers. Probably my favorite bikes to ride!

[@StevenStratford]

Love those rear brake luge brackets?...could do with those for my vintage bike...very cool

[@RadMattic]

In addition to Mike Bancroft's custom mounts, PorkChop BMX has the Evolution brand for sale on their website. I've a few other guys have made custom ones too.

[@ctellsworth9118]

@@RadMattic o you have a contact for Mike. I would like to get a set of the mounts. Thanks

[@georgegutierrez8384]

@@RadMattic does he have a website or somewhere to contact him? Would appreciate it!

[@JOB1925pk]

I neeeed those rear brake mounts!!!!!

[@RadMattic]

Ah, the rear brake mounts-like the missing puzzle piece that keeps your ride from being a wild rollercoaster!

[@JOB1925pk]

@@RadMattic I got ahold of the guy in Texas...he no longer has any available and is too busy to make any more, but did provide me with another source for similar bolt on mounts.

[@kennethmeese]

@@JOB1925pk who is the other source? I need those mounts.

[@wvvols1122]

Great build! Thanks for the video! Can you pass along Mike's info for the brake adaptors? Thanks again!

[@RadMattic]

Thanks a ton! Mike’s deets can be found if you search for him on the FB group Klunkers and Bastard Bikes. He’s definitely the guy to talk to for brake adaptors!

[@rolandonunez6887]

How were you able to avoid tensioner on free wheel? Great looking build!

[@RadMattic]

With old Schwinn reverse dropouts, I just went on faith that the axle wouldn't move! Just to be safe, I checked the tension a lot, especially when I raced the bike. Riding arounds trails it's fine. Thanks for liking the build.

[@JoelLopez-ur2kb]

❤❤❤❤❤ RAD 😮😮😮❤❤❤❤❤. 😂😅😂. 🍦😊

[@RadMattic]

Thank you!

[@John-x9x2q]

The GT seat post clamp.. nice touch..

[@RadMattic]

Yeah, I thought that GT clamp was cool! I believe I had it on my 1984 Patterson PR-200. Doing a video on that bike coming up as well.

[@chadfield376]

Great video I have this exact bike frame that was my dad’s when he was a teenager. I am planning to do a restomod on it and upgrading to a 3spd rear hub from a coaster brake hub; Where can I get pair of those clamp on V-brake studs for the rear chain stay? Do you have that POC who makes those stud clamps? Thanks.

[@RadMattic]

That's awesome that you have your dad's bike frame! For clamp-on V-brake studs, you can find Mike Bancroft on Facebook. He is also on the Klunkers and Bastard Bikes FB group. He makes short runs of his custom brake mounts. You can also check out Porkchop BMX. www.porkchopbmx.com/non-returnable-evolution-v-brake-bicycle-46159865.html. They sell a great product as well. I've used both Mike's and the Porkchop brand. Happy restoring!

[@nelgroetheanti-dj6334]

Hey Hey!, great build, tough to beat a black and chrome Schwinn! Any more info on the brake adapters? Does this guy make them to sell or was it your buddy? Thanks

[@Sucker4rust]

I need a pair too

[@RadMattic]

Thank you! His name is Mike Bancroft. He only makes small batches of these. You can find him on the Klunkers and Bastard Bikes Facebook group. Real nice dude.

[@Dave.Mc.17]

That's a sweet build. I'm currently building up a speedster and am wondering what brand those V-brake mounts are that you used. Thank you.

[@RadMattic]

Hi Dave. The V-Brake mounts are custom made by a guy called Mike Bancroft. You can find him on the Klunkers and Bastard Bikes group on Facebook.

[@Dave.Mc.17]

@@RadMattic Thank you very much. I'm a member of that Group. I will check it out.

[@Coastal_Cruzer]

FINALLY SOMEONE ELSE THAT USES WD40 FOR GRIPS

[@RadMattic]

Yes! I don't know way some folks think this is bad. It's worked great for me for decades.

[@Coastal_Cruzer]

@@RadMattic it's probably because a majority of people think it's a lubricant, which it isn't. It's more like a penetrating cleaner that happens to make things slick. However it dries up after a while and even rejuvenates dried out rubber

[@dazzasp3]

Same here😊

[@Tubbehotti]

Hey RadMattic, Do you know which tire size you've used? Im curious, as i want to add a MX1000 rear to my MTB build. Do you think the Dia Compe have clearance for 26x2.2 tires?

[@RadMattic]

They are Michelin Country Racer tires. 26 x 2.10. There appears to be about 1/4" space left on either side between tire and brake caliper. You might be able to run 26 x 2.2! It will be close! Thanks for watching!

[@kiyahuitl]

What bottom bracket was installed?

[@RadMattic]

Great question! Thanks for your interest in the build. I used a Black Ops brand bottom bracket conversion kit with a Profile sealed bottom bracket and Profile cranks for this custom Klunker!

[@SamuelMarquez-d2w]

Where can I get the mounts to put the rear brake?

[@RadMattic]

They are made by a guy called Mike Bancroft in Texas. He makes short runs of them. You can find him on Facebook. Try looking for him on the Klunkers and Bastard Bikes FB group.

[@MrYuk-xp4bl]

Please point me in the direction of the custom made aluminum cantilever brake mounts. I have searched and find nothing. Thanks 🤘

[@RadMattic]

The guy who makes them is Mark Bancroft. You can find him on Facebook group "Klunkers and Bastard Bikes".

[@Billy-cs4cc]

Hey i need the kick back. Had one in 62-63

[@RadMattic]

Ah, the '62-'63 kick back! The only thing better than that is a time machine to go back and relive it. Just make sure to bring snacks!

[@godfellas483]

I was wondering what width crank you need after installing that black ops conversion kit. Do they offer any advice when you go with that?

[@RadMattic]

I'll need to measure the Profile spindle. Profile crank kits come with spacers of multiple sizes. So, I just added or removed spacers until the spacing between crank arms and chain stays looked good. These old Profile cranks are kind of trial and error, to get the right amount of spacers and to not over-tighten the pressure on the bearings. They are rock solid after getting them set though! Occasionally, I will check to be sure the crank arm bolts haven't come loose. I raced with these a lot 15-20 years ago, so I got used to them being a touch finicky! I used the 182mm crank arms. Just checked, and I have all 3 of my spindles installed on bikes! So, when I get a chance I'll try and measure one for you. Thanks!

[@fatrobdouble]

just run an American BB set and avoid the weird additional expense and weakness of the threaded adaptor. Most Profile cranks are 19mm (3/4") spindle; some more recent ones are 22.0mm (Profile sells these as "Column" or "Bantam") and some mid-school ones are 22.2mm (7/8"), which they sold as "SS"... If you run just an American BB set right in the BB shell you're gonna want to run a 5 5/8" BB axle. If you insist on running a "Euro" adaptor just to run a crank that was designed to run on the American-spec BB shell you already have, you'll want to run a 6" axle. HTH.

[@dfworks2239]

Did this man bend the brakes instead of just getting cupped washers?….yes he did.

[@RadMattic]

I guess he thought bending the brakes was just a “stretch” to get things rolling! 😂

[@philandthedash1682]

How can I get a set of those v brake mounts

[@RadMattic]

If you can hunt down Mike Bancroft on Facebook, he's the guy who makes these. He's often of the Klunkers and Bastard Bikes Facebook group.

[@philandthedash1682]

@@RadMattic awesome thank you

[@Billy-cs4cc]

Let me know if you come across one plz and thanks

[@RadMattic]

Thanks for your comment! I appreciate your engagement and will definitely keep you posted if I come across one.

[@moosehand8721]

I cant find these bancroft adaptors with any search efforts whatsoever.

[@fatrobdouble]

Porkchop BMX sells the Evolution version of the same thing.....

[@RadMattic]

His name is Mike Bancroft. He only makes small batches of these. You can find him on the Klunkers and Bastard Bikes Facebook group. Real nice dude.

[@RadMattic]

I bought two sets of the PorkChop ones as well. They work very good. I'll show those in an upcoming video.

[@fatrobdouble]

@@RadMattic i got me some Tick1 Lockjaws....

[@moosehand8721]

@RadMattic I found them and I so appreciate you enlightening me to that site, really cool parts on there. Thanks so much!

[@julianrupert4615]

"Promosm" ❣️

[@RadMattic]

Thanks!

[@dfworks2239]

I can already tell that bb is way too tight

[@RadMattic]

Tight? You mean it’s not a new fashion statement called “the squeeze”? 😂

[@Billy-cs4cc]

Im a 1952 with gravity destroying my bottom end. Argh.

[@RadMattic]

Haha, gravity really knows how to mess with us, right? Hang in there!

[@shaunoconnorstudio]

WD-40 has lubricating qualities, I don’t think it should be used to install grips.

[@WadeParish]

I was surprised by that as well, but he appears to have done it before. Maybe it tacks up real nice once it sits/dries a bit?

[@nicholaslamphere]

Aqua Net hairspray is the way to go

[@WadeParish]

I’ve always used hairspray too. I’m intrigued by this WD-40 idea though.

[@RadMattic]

I've been doing it this way for years! It's surprising, but it gets real "grippy" inside those grips once the WD-40 dries and sets up! I should probably use an air compressor though, it's less messy on your floor!

[@ghost_tom_joad8530]

That bottom bracket conversion kit is sketchy.

[@RadMattic]

Yes, it is a bit sketchy, considering the bottom bracket shell was so stretched out! But, it holds solid. It's not going to fail. I raced the bike one weekend at DirtyFest in California. Because the frame is so old, I'm going to take it easy on the old beast from now on and just use it for ride outs, casual rides, etc.