To quote the Waterford Bicycle site (spiritual successor to the Schwinn Paramount shop):
"By '74 or '75, the Paramounts also became available with a so-called "short coupled" design. This design featured a seatmast which curved around the rear wheel, allowing a shorter wheelbase. It was offered to touring riders as a way to improve climbing by shifting the weight distribution rearward, "
See:
http://www.waterfordbikes.com/
Tom Adams, Kansas City
In a message dated 11/10/02 6:23:45 PM, jerrymoos@sbcglobal.net writes:
<< If I recall correctly, there was a Schwinn Paramount in the early to mid
80's with a curved seat tube. I think Schwinn advertised this a providing
quick cornering, perhaps aimed at criterium riders, >>
Jerry and All,
Schwinn called this a "short coupled" frame and promoted its superior hill climbing as compared to "normal" frames. I almost ordered one in'73 but instead chose one of the "elusive" Raleigh RRAs..........sadly, I no longer have the Raleigh.
Cheers to All,
Chuck Brooks
Malta, NY