Rokon Motorcycles Sent to West Africa to Help in Fight Against Ebola

Fondation Mérieux USA recently purchased five all wheel drive motorcycles from Rokon of Rochester to assist in the fight against Ebola in West Africa. The motorcycles were sent to the Incident management teams at the United States Embassies in Monrovia, Liberia and Freetown, Sierra Leone for deployment.

The motorcycles will be used to transport blood samples from remote and difficult to reach locations, some of which are usually only accessible by foot. To meet the needs of Fondation Mérieux, Rokon developed a customized bracket in place of the motorcycle’s rear seat in order to carry coolers that will protect the blood samples from deterioration. Rokon also donated other key accessories.

Dr. Charles Mérieux, whose father Marcel was a student of Louis Pasteur, established Fondation Mérieux in 1967. An independent family foundation with a focus on biology serving public health worldwide, Fondation Mérieux focuses its action in the field at the heart of infectious areas. Fondation Mérieux USA advances the vision and mission of Fondation Mérieux by creating strategic partnerships with North American and local partners in order to help strengthen the surveillance, prevention, and control of infectious diseases in developing countries.

Rokon is the world’s original and longest producing manufacturer of all wheel drive motorcycles. For over 50 years Rokons have taken riders to places that no other vehicle can. Rugged, lightweight, with wide tires, and a high ground clearance, Rokons deliver sure-footed traction and plenty of pulling power. A wide range of accessories completes the Rokon’s unmatched versatility for work or recreational activities.

Submitted text. Courtesy photo.