Walmart Schwinn Admiral, crazy?

Now that my ebike is running well, looking for a new project. I was dead set on a 4 stroke if I built another gas bike, but I just love the look and ease of mounting an HT. And with the new Dax balanced motors getting such praise...

That got me thinking that an HT build with a shift kit might be the way to go. A Schwinn Admiral popped up on Craigslist for $35 in like new condition (Walmart version, not vintage). I was thinking it would be a nice build since it has gears, steel V frame, and mounts for a rear rack gas tank.

I would run stronger wheels and hubs and likely a Monark fork. So, completely crazy idea? Will the 700c wheels be a problem?



I know the common thinking is that it would be better to spend another $50 or so and get a 90's hardtail mountain bike, but I really like the clean lines of the Admiral. I had a Cranbrook break on me at the usual place (cantilever weld at the seat tube), just wondering if this style frame will be any sturdier?

Meh, ignore this thread, I talked myself out of it. I started thinking that having the 700c wheels and frame of unknown integrity might not be worth it, so I will just eyeball CL for old hardtails to convert to a similar look with a Gyes saddle and albatross bars.

I have my eye on an early 90's Diamondback Ascent EX that looks promising with a 19" frame. I would likely need to strip the paint, but I was looking for a project...

So dreaming this build into reality:
- Dax balanced 66cc China Girl
- Rear under-rack gas tank
- SBP Heavy Duty shift kit
- 90's hardtail mountain bike
- Suspension fork (either Monark, Sunlite Deluxe, or triple crown)
- Gyes leather sprung saddle
- Albatross bars
- Strong double wall rims, new hubs, Cyclops CST Pro tires (love 'em)
- Crowe cycles center stand
- Nice sealed bearing headset

Yeah, that will take a while to collect the funds for, but it all has to start somewhere. Then I will blow up that HT after a couple hundred miles, swear them off, sell the parts, build something else, miss having a gas bike, build another... LOL!

Nice, maniac! Look at all that room under the top bar! I think I would reroute the exhaust and use that space for a cylindrical fuel tank under the top bar...