Al Fritz

Inventor of the Schwinn Sting-Ray bicycle -- via Bicycle Retailer. And hey, the Varsity and Continental models as well -- the latter two were among the first lightweight derailleur types to be mass-produced for American riders.

Until today, I didn't realize that Al Fritz was one of my major influences. Why? He made MY BIKE!

The 1979 Sting-Ray, yellow and lime. Mine was an earlier model, but looked substantially like this.

Christmas of 1967, I got this bike in a box. After many days of my dad tinkering, filling the ashtrays with cigarettes, swearing, and opening another beer, it all came together. 

This magnificent object was my best friend (hey, we didn't have a dog). I had freedom, mobility, autonomy, and stylish grace all in one. I was rocking a sweet ride that had ape hanger handlebars, bright yellow banana seat, 20-inch tires (no shifter -- one speed only, backpedal to brake!) -- an indestructible and faithful companion. It was my horse, my World War I biplane, my racecar. We did stunts in the vacant lots nearby, building ramps and obstacle courses, or trekked west to the Table Mesas. It ignited my love affair with bicycling (though, not cycling -- I don't own any aerodynamic underpants, air-cooled helmets, or those funny shoes that snap into place). I am on bike #3 now, but bike #1, above, never nicknamed, was my favorite. When I was not asleep or in school, I was on it. 

In this world where toys break easily and promises go unfilled, a well-made and reliable thing such as this really made a difference for me, and I'm sure for millions of other kids. Thanks, Mr. Fritz!