Schwinn Sanctuary

77/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
44.1, 45 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Schwinn Sanctuary. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

7 reasons to buy

  • Several users described the Sanctuary as a solid or sturdy rig, with reports that it was able to carry larger riders – some of them reporting that they weighed over the recommended limit.
  • The absence of quick-release skewers on the wheel axles and seat clamp, meant a more theft-proof bike for users locking-up in public places.
  • Some buyers characterized the packing of their bike as ‘quality’.
  • There are reports of the received instructions being easy to follow.
  • A major attraction for owners of the Sanctuary, is the retro-classic appearance. In reviews, it’s common to encounter the phrase, ‘good-looking’.
  • A rear rack comes included. This is a plus for commuters, who found it useful for shopping trips.
  • A number of cyclists found riding comfort in the wide, plush seat and upright cycling position.

10 reasons not to buy

  • There are quite a few reports of riders experiencing absolute failure of the drivetrain, sometimes within the first riding experience. In this situation, the rear derailleur was dragged into the rear wheel, being destroyed and damaging the chain and spokes.
  • Even precluding drivetrain failure, the gears were difficult to adjust. In one instance an owner was told by professional bike mechanics that they were unable to tune or repair the rear derailleur.
  • Tires were low quality and only operated at lower pressures, limiting the bike to a somewhat ‘squishy’ ride.
  • Tubes were renowned for exploding due to failing along the central seam.
  • It is, unquestionably, a heavy bike. Many riders found that seven gears was not enough to get them up substantial hills.
  • Reports of the bike arriving with a bent front fork and / or dropout is common.
  • While some buyers reported good packaging, one couple received a bike that was well packaged while the other had no padding. Scores of riders reported poor packaging, broken or missing parts and chipped or scratched paintwork.
  • Saddle-suitability is often subjective. Even though some people found the seat comfortable, many also complained of discomfort.
  • Rust is a problem, with owners reporting the worst of it on chrome parts. After one year of use – and with the Sanctuary being kept strictly indoors and used only on vacations - one user reported extensive rust.
  • Numerous owners reported moaning, squeaking, creaking and a generally noisy riding experience.

Bottom line

The Schwinn Sanctuary is worried by quality-control issues. It did receive high ratings by a number of users, following recent receipt of the bike. However, reports of distress with operation, assembly and basic use were rife. A number of user reviews amounted to, “I wish I’d read the other reviews”. The style of the Sanctuary is based on Schwinn’s original 1960s designs, relics of which are being restored and ridden even today. If this retro appearance is of utmost importance to your choice of bicycle, you may be willing to overlook this machine’s shortcomings.

Expert Reviews

0/100 based on 0 rated expert reviews

Review and Comparison of Schwinn Bicycle VS 3G Cruiser Bikes

User Ratings

77/100 based on 550 ratings
  • 5 star
    47%
  • 4 star
    23%
  • 3 star
    10%
  • 2 star
    8%
  • 1 star
    13%

Bike Comparison

Schwinn Sanctuary in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

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