BETHEL, CT (BRAIN) — Schwinn is releasing a special edition of its iconic Sting-Ray model this holiday season, in honor of the bike's 50th anniversary. The special chrome Sting-Ray also honors the father of the original bike, Al Fritz, who passed away earlier this year at 88.
Schwinn is making 500 of the new bike model called the Fritz Fifty, which will be available starting the first week of December through Schwinn's U.S. independent dealers. The company said Fritz helped design the special model, the first newly designed Sting-Ray since 1973.
"For the first time in history, the Sting-Ray will have a chrome frame, a feature that was always a dream of Al's. The possibilities to customize the Fritz Fifty with different-colored parts and pop wheelies while making a unique fashion statement are endless," Schwinn said.
Besides the chrome frame, the Fritz Fifty features a classic cantilever frame, banana seat with rear suspension, custom springer fork, fat silk rear tire, smaller 16-inch front tire, and chrome fenders. Each bike is individually numbered and has a limited-edition seal of authenticity signed by Fritz. A portion of the proceeds from the bike sales will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association in honor of Fritz.
"The creation of the Fritz Fifty Limited Edition Schwinn Sting-Ray is a testament to the incredible contributions of bicycle design by Al Fritz and Schwinn's commitment to the heritage of our brand," said Jeff Rogers, Schwinn's global general manager. "The Schwinn Sting-Ray was the bike that every kid wanted when they were growing up, and we're thrilled to bring it back, and in a sharp new style, for people of all generations to enjoy."
