Crankcase

Two bags of jelly beans, a ten-year old and a Tilt-A-Whirl.

One from the Incredibly Cool Department. I found out about this bike a few weeks ago and I have become obsessed with it.

It's a remake of the Schwinn Stingray of the 60's and 70's. The original bike took it's cue from the motorcycle choppers of the day (ape hanger handlebars, banana seat, sissy bar, etc.). The remake now works off current chopper designs, namely those of Orange County Choppers. I don't know if OCC had a hand in the design, but the low slung seat, the ultra fat rear wheel and the front fork design seem to point to that fact. The chain guard also sports the Teutul's company name in that quasi-Gothic print.

I figured a bike like this would go for big bills, especially considering OCC's popularity, but it really isn't. Only $177.63 at Hel-Mart (just please do me the honors of not buying it from these leeches). The catch? From Hel-Mart's link:

...the new Schwinn Sting-Ray is an exciting, chopper-style ride for boys ages 8 to 12.

8 to 12?! Freakin' 8 to 12?!

Honestly, what adult wouldn't want this ride? Especially adults who only can get a motorcycle if their spouse gets to take out a million dollar life insurance policy on the rider. I'm just saying is all. I think this would be the happiest of compromises.

If you agree with me, send a note to Pacific Cycle (who owns the Schwinn name. Eventually all companies will be wholly owned subsidiaries of the Rand Corporation, if they aren't already). Tell them that they simply HAVE to move on making an adult sized 'Ray. I've already tried the standard channels and no plans are in the works for one. Maybe a letter campaign will help them to see the light.

info@pacific-cycle.com

posted by: Jiggsy at 04/09/04 10:22 | link | comments |

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