Can anyone tell me with certainty, the size of handlebar that fits properly into a 1930s-1950s Schwinn adjustable track stem? I have such a stem; when the handlebar clamp opening is completely relaxed; i.e., no tension on the clamping bolt, I measure the I.D. as 1/128" less than one inch. I know that 1/128" doesn't sound like much, but a one inch bar will not fit without stretching the clamp open (which I would rather not have to do, as it has been beautifully rechromed). Could it be that it takes a 15/16" diameter bar? Sheldon Brown's table of handlebar diameters says that 15/16" diameter is "Obsolete British size for steel handlebars, common on older 3-speeds. This size was also used for older British steel drop bars." If you have such a Schwinn Paramount adjustable stem with the original bars in it, could you please measure and let me know the right answer--15/16" or 1"? Thanks again for the help. This information will contribute to the final assembly of my '38 Schwinn Superior.
Pete Rutledge
Woodbridge, VA, USA