The Process
When K2 acquired Girvin, Inc., along with their renowned ProFlex mountain bicycles, they wasted no time in venturing into the world of mountain biking. This expansion led to the creation of a fresh and innovative line of bikes crafted from cutting-edge materials like aluminum and carbon composites. Among the standout models were the Razorback RS, Animal DH, and the Beast.
I had the honor of being tasked with the development of prototype graphics for this exciting new bike lineup. This endeavor presented a novel and challenging opportunity for me, as I had never undertaken such a project before. After multiple rounds of design iterations, These are the best results from that year's K2 bicycle lineup, marking a significant milestone in my career.
I had the honor of being tasked with the development of prototype graphics for this exciting new bike lineup. This endeavor presented a novel and challenging opportunity for me, as I had never undertaken such a project before. After multiple rounds of design iterations, These are the best results from that year's K2 bicycle lineup, marking a significant milestone in my career.
Designing graphics for bicycles, much like the process for skis, poses a unique challenge, primarily because you're dealing with applying flat graphics to a rounded, three-dimensional surface. The curvature of the bike and the way light interacts with the metal surface can significantly impact the appearance of the graphics. Achieving the right balance between graphics and reflective properties is crucial to ensure they harmonize with the overall aesthetic and complement the elegant shapes of the bicycle.
Selecting the appropriate colors and graphics should seamlessly align with the bike's form. Equally important is the synergy between the bike's name and its graphic representation. In the best cases, the right choice of colors and graphics can create visual cues that convey speed, lightness, or aggressiveness, all of which contribute to the bike's overall appeal.
In 1997, K2 introduced a groundbreaking innovation known as the Smart Shock. The development of this technology was a collaborative effort with researchers at Active Control eXperts in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally designed to control vibrations in fighter aircraft, this technology was adapted for use in mountain bikes. Powered by a 9-volt battery, the Smart Shock system is capable of making over 900 adjustments per second to fine-tune the stiffness of a mountain bike's suspension, delivering a smoother and more controlled ride experience.
Selecting the appropriate colors and graphics should seamlessly align with the bike's form. Equally important is the synergy between the bike's name and its graphic representation. In the best cases, the right choice of colors and graphics can create visual cues that convey speed, lightness, or aggressiveness, all of which contribute to the bike's overall appeal.
In 1997, K2 introduced a groundbreaking innovation known as the Smart Shock. The development of this technology was a collaborative effort with researchers at Active Control eXperts in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally designed to control vibrations in fighter aircraft, this technology was adapted for use in mountain bikes. Powered by a 9-volt battery, the Smart Shock system is capable of making over 900 adjustments per second to fine-tune the stiffness of a mountain bike's suspension, delivering a smoother and more controlled ride experience.
