by,schulz is the winner of the Saarland State Prize for Design 2023

Award for the by,schulz Z.1 folding pedal

At this year’s Saarland State Prize for Design, we received the award in the product design category for our Z.1 Z-Line Fold pedal.
The innovative design of the Z.1 folding pedal not only impressed the jury with its attractive appearance, but also with its practical folding function, which makes it an ideal companion for urban cyclists.
We are delighted with the award and see it as confirmation of our many years of intensive development work

in the field of innovative product design for bicycles right through to series production. The award underlines the importance of know-how and design in combination as a driving force for progress and creative solutions. The Z.1 folding pedal is therefore not only a functional bicycle accessory, but also a symbol of successful, forward-looking design from the Saarland.
The approach to design, functionality and sustainability makes the Z.1 folding pedal a good example of the contemporary orientation of products.

by,schulz Managing Director Markus Schulz (center) and Senior Product Developer Gerd Brücker at the presentation of the certificate by the Saarland State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Innovation, Digital and Energy, Elena Yorgova-Ramanauskas.

We presented the Z.1 folding pedal on a bike that was also equipped with the Stem Twist SDS twist-away stem to clearly illustrate the “compactness” theme.

Video

Film concept, shooting, editing: Jonathan Thomas & Leon Fürtig. Production: K8 Institute for Strategic Aesthetics

Jurystatement

"As cyclists, we experience time and again that our bikes get caught with their pedals in other bikes in busy, narrow urban bicycle parking lots and can often only be "freed" again with skill. Obviously, this is an everyday problem that bicycle manufacturers have not yet recognized as such and produce bicycles with the usual pedal constellation. The Z.1 Z-Line Fold pedal from by,schulz is a product that represents a simple but ingenious solution in this context. Technologically, the folding pedal is based on familiar components such as the hinge and latching mechanism, is beautifully designed and neatly finished. The appropriate choice of materials, simple operation and the lowered pedal surface give the Z.1 Fold real added value and represent an innovation. Exemplary and clever design in an everyday context - by, schulz leads the way."

Function of the Z.1 folding pedal

Saarland State Prize for Design

The Saarland State Prize for Design is an honorary award. The award is given for realized products, available services and implemented corporate strategies.

Selection criteria of the jury

  • Processing
  • Choice of material
  • Functionality
  • Ergonomics/Usability
  • Sustainability/environmental compatibility
  • Brand/Branding
  • Universal design (accessibility, safety aspects, etc.)
Logo of the Saarland State Prize for Design 2023. Image source: K8 Institute for Strategic Aesthetics