World Bicycle Relief Unveils Buffalo Bicycle Utility S2 – Products

World Bicycle Relief, the global non-profit social enterprise dedicated to empowering underserved communities through the power of bicycles, announced the launch of the Buffalo Bicycle Utility S2 at Eurobike.

Recognised as a Eurobike Awards winner, this latest version of the purpose-built Buffalo bike features an innovative 2-chain drivetrain that gives riders two speeds without the complexity of sensitive external components.

The AK2 coaster freewheel system marks World Bicycle Relief’s first patented product.

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 great example of our commitment to this goal.

“This innovative bike represents a significant step forward in our growth strategy, allowing us to reach more people and communities in need of reliable transportation. We are proud to continue to grow our impact and transform lives through sustainable mobility solutions.”

Developed by World Bicycle Relief, the Buffalo Bicycle is not your typical bike.

It is durable and designed to meet the needs of people who travel long distances over rough terrain with heavy cargo in some of the world’s harshest environments.

The Buffalo Bike is the result of a unique collaboration between World Bicycle Relief and industry leaders including SRAM, Trek, Giant Group and Karasawa.

These organizations brought their product design expertise and product testing capabilities to help create a stronger, simpler, more durable bicycle that meets the mobility needs of communities where transportation is a significant barrier to accessing essential services.

Guided by sustainable design principles, the Buffalo Utility S2 ensures long-term use with minimal environmental impact.

During the development of the multi-speed transmission, several system improvements were made.

2-speed, 2-chain transmission: The multi-speed transmission consists of a switchable freewheel with two sprockets which are each paired with a corresponding chainring via their own single-speed chain.
Riders can effortlessly shift from a high gear for speed to a low gear for climbing by simply pedaling back a little less than half a turn and then pedaling forward.

Dual Pivot Caliper Brakes: These brakes are easy to install and adjust, corrosion resistant and provide superior control, especially when carrying heavy loads.

Robust aluminum rims: Deep section aluminum rims provide high strength and lighter weight. Updated wheel construction with 3x lacing ensures consistent spoke tension and reduces spoke breakage.

Chris Raymo, Product Development Manager at World Bicycle Relief, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are incredibly proud to deliver the Buffalo Utility S2 to the communities we serve.

“This innovation is the culmination of years of hard work and collaboration to address the unique challenges our users face. It’s an honor to be part of a project that has such a profound impact on people’s lives.”

After more than 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 end-user feedback.

This contribution on the ground was decisive in shaping a highly functional and durable bicycle, adapted to the real needs of its cyclists.

The Buffalo Utility S2 highlights World Bicycle Relief’s focus on innovating for an underserved segment of the cycling community, often overlooked by traditional advancements.

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 poised to have a profound impact on the lives of its users.

Coupled with the cyclist, the Buffalo Bicycle becomes a positive force for change.