Dorel Industries said it has created a limited edition all-chrome version of Schwinn’s Sting-Ray to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the iconic bike and honor the memory of its creator, former Schwinn designer Al Fritz. Only 500 of the 'Fritz Fifty' bikes will be made available exclusively through independent bike dealers beginning the first week of December.

The original Sting-Ray was created by former Schwinn VP for engineering, research and development Al Fritz and was in production from 1963-1981. The most famous of those models were the Krates, which were produced from 1968 to 1973. While Fritz passed away in May, Schwinn worked with him earlier in the year to design the Fritz Fifty, to commemorate the bike loved and purchased by millions.

 
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.
 
The new Fritz Fifty Sting-Ray boasts all of the authentic details that made the original famous: classic frame, banana seat with rear suspension, custom springer fork, fat silk rear tire, smaller 16″ front tire, and fenders for riding in all weather. Each bike is individually numbered and has a limited edition seal of authenticity signed by Al Fritz. A portion of the proceeds from the bike sales will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association in honor of Al 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, Global General Manager at Schwinn. “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.”

String-Ray trivia:

  • In 1962, Schwinn designer Al Fritz learned of a new California youth trend: retrofitting bicycles with the accoutrements of motorcycles (high-rise, ape hanger handlebars and banana seats).
  • As a result, in 1963 a wheelie bike was introduced to the public as the Schwinn Sting-Ray.
  • By the end of 1964, Schwinn Sting-Rays accounted for 70 percent of bike sales in the U.S.
  • The Schwinn Sting-Ray remained in production until 1981, with nostalgic reissues of the original Krates in 1998, 2004, 2008, and 2011.
  • On May 7, 2013 Al Fritz passed away, but not before helping to recreate the magic of the iconic Schwinn Sting-Ray by developing this 50th anniversary commemorative, chrome Fritz Fifty in tandem with the Schwinn Bikes team.