1997 Schwinn Homegrown Factory Suspension XTR
Based on the "Sweet Spot" design John Castellano developed for the Ibis Bow Ti and Szazbo, the Homegrown Factory Suspension XTR was the top-of-the-line model for Schwinn in 1997. The concept was to have the suspension activated by the weight of the rider while seated during a downhill and stiffen up like a hardtail when standing and pedaling. Schwinn's "Homegrown" line of bikes are often touted as being made by Yeti Cycles in Durango, CO; however, the vast majority such as this bike were made by Anodizing, Inc. in Portland, OR. This bike was created during an odd period of ownership for Schwinn, when it's parent company also owned Yeti as well as Scott USA. As a result, this bike as it appears in nearly a stock configuration has a Yeti Easton handlebar and Scott branded bar ends. The blue bass boat color would become an iconic finish for Schwinn bikes of the era, with Homegrown logos in the form of a tomato found throughout.
The Build
Year: 1997
SN: 97BHR1239 Frame: Homegrown Factory Suspension Fork: Rock Shox Judy SL 80 mm Shock: Rock Shox Super Deluxe Stem: Control Tech Headset: Cane Creek Sealed S Aheadset Bottom Bracket: XTR M950 Handlebar: Yeti Easton Shifters: Shimano XTR M950 Front Derailleur: Shimano XTR M950 Rear Derailleur: Shimano XTR M950 Brake Levers: Shimano XTR M950 Front Brake: Shimano XTR M950 Rear Brake: Shimano XTR M950 Crankset: Shimano XTR M950 Chainrings: Shimano XTR M950 24-34-46 Pedals: Shimano M747 Hubs: Shimano XTR M950 Rims: Mavic 220 Tires: Tioga Psycho 1.95 Wheel QR: Shimano XTR M950 Seatpost: Control Tech Seatpost Clamp: DKG Saddle: Selle San Marco Strada Hi-Pro Schwinn Grips: Schwinn Logo Cogs: Shimano XTR M950 Chain: Sachs |