Firefox introduces new bicycle helmets

Keeping in mind the primary concern of safety, Firefox bikes has launched a new range of protective head gear for all riding styles for men, women and children. With a starting price tag of Rs.600, going up to Rs. 2,700, these helmets are made out of PVC with an inner EPS shell with 6 ventilator holes and size adjustment. “It is mandatory in the case of two-wheelers, however, there is no legislation or law at the moment which makes it mandatory for bicycle riders to don a helmet, which is an area of concern for us,” said Shiv Inder Singh, Managing Director, Firefox Bikes.

The PVC helmets have another option of 11 ventilator holes while other categories include moulded helmets with a PV shell encasing with 14 ventilator holes, side adjusters and QR buckles. These are highly technical user specific pieces that improve the safety along with the riding experience.

Incorporated in 2004, the country’s largest adventure bicycle manufacturer currently has 90 exclusive dealerships. The company introduced about 30 models by early 2005 with the first company bike station inaugurated in April the same year. In June 2006, the company teamed up with Trek Bicycle Corp. USA, for exclusive distribution of its bikes in India later on introducing lubricant and puncture resistant products to the Indian cycle market. The present range includes over 70 models for various riding conditions under eight categories – Full Suspension, Hardtail, Road, Hybrid, BMX, Kids and imports from Trek and Gary Fisher.

The trend towards adventure bicycles has been increasing which is why buyers are more concerned about their safety on bicycles. After the recent hike on import duties, Firefox as well as other high end bicycle manufacturers have taken a bit of a brunt increasing their prices by Rs.1,500 to Rs. 4,000 with a starting price tag over Rs.17,000. Out of the 1.5crore units sold annually, 15 lakh bicycles are imported, 25 lakh use imported components while the rest are country-made which clearly states the need for imported bikes in the country.