FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 27, 2009
Bell partners with Paul Frank Industries to update popular Faction and Fraction helmets
SCOTTS VALLEY, CA –Bell Sports has partnered with pop culture icon Paul Frank Industries to add some graphic panache to its 2010 line of Bell Faction and Fraction helmets. Highlighted by “Julius”—Paul Frank’s signature monkey—and the skull-and-crossbones “Scurvy Pirate,” Bell will feature six Paul Frank graphics on the bicycle and skate-certified helmets.
“Putting Paul Frank graphics on these helmets reflects the way the Faction has found new groups of riders over the years,” explains Bell Senior Product Manager Warren Gravely. “We originally launched the Faction as a hardcore dirt jump/trail helmet, but we’ve seen it adapted by everyone from bike messengers to people on beach cruisers as well as kids riding to school. It’s with those latter categories in mind that we decided to diversify the graphics a bit.”
And though Bell will continue to offer the helmets in more traditional livery, Bell’s creative director expects a diverse customer base will embrace the Paul Frank graphics.
“Paul Frank’s design inspirations stem from many unique sources. From punk rock to designers Charles and Ray Eames to utilitarian American brands like John Deere, he’s found this delta that makes it OK for both kids and adults from all walks to be fanatical about the brand,” explains Creative Director Eli Atkins.“There’s this amazing universal appeal that’s just as relevant to a five-year-old that likes monkeys as it is to a 40-year-old into Mid-Century Modern.”
In addition to the Paul Frank graphics, Bell has also tapped renowned Santa Cruz skateboard graphic designer Jimbo Phillips to bring his own style of eye-popping art to the helmets. Bell’s internal art staff has bolstered the 2010 graphic offerings as well.
“The bottom line is we’ve got something for everyone,” added Gravely. “This category of helmet has become a huge part of our business and the quality and variety of what we’re offering in 2010 should help us and our dealers continue to grow this segment.”
The Faction has been one of Bell’s top-selling helmets since its introduction in 2004. In 2009, Bell added the Fraction, a smaller version of the helmet for kids. The helmets are certified to the CPSC and CE1078 bicycle standards as well as the ASTM 1492 skate standard. They feature a durable ABS plastic hard shell, dual density EPS foam, color matched buckles, printed interior pads and coordinated strap webbing.
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