Industry-first 2-speed, 2-chain drivetrain
featuring patented shifting technology make the Utility S2 a
game-changer for rural transportation
FRANKFURT, Germany, July 3, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- World Bicycle Relief, the global non-profit social
enterprise dedicated to empowering underserved communities through
the Power of Bicycles, today announced the launch of the Buffalo
Bicycle Utility S2 at the Eurobike trade show.
Recognized as a winner in the Eurobike Awards, this latest
version of the purpose-built Buffalo Bicycle includes an innovative
2-chain drivetrain that provides riders with two gears without the
complexity of sensitive external components. The AK2 Freewheel
system with back-pedal shifting marks the milestone of World
Bicycle Relief's first patented product.
Innovation Driven by Purpose
Developed by World Bicycle Relief, the Buffalo Bicycle isn't
your typical bike. It is extremely durable and built to serve the
needs of people who travel long distances over rugged terrain with
heavy cargo in some of the world's harshest environments. The
Buffalo Bicycle is the result of a unique collaboration between
World Bicycle Relief and industry leaders, including SRAM, Trek,
Giant Group, and Karasawa. These organizations contributed product
design expertise and product testing capabilities to help create a
stronger, simpler, and more sustainable bicycle that addresses the
critical mobility needs of communities where transportation is a
significant barrier to accessing essential services.
Sustainable and Durable Design
Guided by sustainable design principles, the Buffalo Utility S2
ensures long-term usability with minimal environmental impact. In
developing the multi-speed drivetrain, several system improvements
were made:
- 2-Speed, 2-chain Drivetrain: The multi-speed drivetrain
consists of a switchable freewheel with two cogs that are each
paired with a corresponding chainring via their own single-speed
chain.
Riders can effortlessly switch between high gear
for speed and low gear for climbing by simply back-pedaling just
under half a turn, then pedal forward.
- Dual-Pivot Caliper Brakes: These brakes are easy to
install and adjust, corrosion-resistant, and offer superior
control, especially when carrying heavy loads.
- Heavy-Duty Aluminum Rims: The "deep-box section"
aluminum rims provide high strength and lighter weight. Updated
wheel construction with 3x lacing ensures consistent spoke tension
and reduces spoke breakages.
Proven Impact Through Extensive Field Testing
With over two years of rigorous testing in the diverse
landscapes of Sub-Saharan Africa and South America, the Buffalo Utility S2 has been
refined through direct feedback from the end-user. This extensive
on-ground input has been instrumental in shaping a bicycle that is
highly functional and durable, perfectly suited to the real-world
needs of its riders.
Enhanced Mobility Equals Enhanced Opportunities
The Buffalo Utility S2 exemplifies World Bicycle Relief's focus
on innovation for an underserved segment of the cycling community,
often overlooked by mainstream advancements. The Utility S2
is more than just a bicycle; it is a tool for empowerment. By
providing essential mobility, it facilitates access to education,
healthcare, and economic opportunities. Designed to overcome
transportation barriers in remote and underserved areas, the
Buffalo Utility S2 is set to make a profound impact on the lives of
its users. Coupled with the rider, the Buffalo Bicycle becomes a
fierce force for change.
Quotes from Leadership
Dave Neiswander, CEO of World
Bicycle Relief, commented, "At World Bicycle Relief, our mission is
to mobilize people through the Power of Bicycles, and the Buffalo
Utility S2 is a prime example of our commitment to this goal. This
innovative bicycle is a significant step forward in our growth
strategy, enabling us to reach more individuals and communities in
need of reliable transportation. We are proud to continue expanding
our impact and transforming lives through sustainable mobility
solutions."
Chris Raymo, Product Development
Lead at World Bicycle Relief, expressed her enthusiasm, stating,
"We are incredibly proud to deliver the Buffalo Utility S2 to the
communities we serve. This new innovation is the culmination of
years of hard work and collaboration designed to meet the unique
challenges faced by our users. It is an honor to be part of a
project that has such a profound impact on people's lives."
Award-Winning Recognition
The Buffalo Bicycle Utility S2 has been honored with a Eurobike
Award in the "Bicycles" category, celebrating excellence in design
and innovation within the cycling industry. This accolade
underscores the significant impact and groundbreaking nature of the
Utility S2.
About World Bicycle Relief:
Founded in 2005, World Bicycle Relief mobilizes people through
the Power of Bicycles. As a pioneering non-profit social
enterprise, World Bicycle Relief has distributed over 790,000
bicycles to provide greater access to education, healthcare, and
economic opportunities, uplifting communities worldwide. Discover
more about our mission, impact, and vision at
WorldBicycleRelief.org.
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SOURCE World Bicycle Relief