We’re living in an exciting time where the options for disabled people and cyclists who’ve had a change of circumstances, or those wanting ‘companion’ cycling, are greater than ever.
We are currently residing in a period of great excitement, where the possibilities for individuals with disabilities and cyclists who have experienced alterations in their circumstances, or those desiring to engage in “companion” cycling, have reached new heights.
This comprehensive guide intends to provide you with a thorough comprehension of the realm of adaptive bikes, ranging from adult trikes to motor-assisted recumbents. It will also elucidate how you can utilize adaptive bikes to venture outside or continue your cycling endeavors, as well as guide you in purchasing your very own adaptive bike.
What is an adaptive bike?
Recumbents, such as the one ingeniously crafted by ICE Trikes and equipped with electric motors, illustrate the answer. ICE Trikes exhibit the capacity of a bike specifically designed to enhance the cycling experience for riders, catering to their individual needs. This includes modifications made to a conventional two-wheel bike or the creation of a need-specific bike or trike.
The selection of the appropriate adaptive bike fundamentally depends on your primary requirement. For instance, individuals with visual impairments might discover tandem bikes to be an excellent choice, whereas individuals with balance issues could encounter challenges when utilizing them.
Similarly, riders with spinal cord injuries affecting their lower body region would face difficulties riding a standard recumbent bike, but they could potentially enjoy the benefits of a handcycle. Additionally, some individuals may choose to ride together due to physical or cognitive reasons.
Adult trikes
Adult tricycles, exemplified by the exceptional creation of Sven Cycles, boasting a singular front wheel or rear wheel. Sven Cycles is a brand renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
As their name implies, tricycles (or trikes) refer to three-wheeled bicycles. Adult tricycles, as highlighted in this informative article from BikeRadar, feature a conveniently low step-through design, an upright seating position, two rear wheels, and ample storage space located at the rear.
A Wide Range of Cyclists Choose Trikes
A diverse group of individuals opt for riding trikes. According to James Walker, the founder of Jorvik Tricycles in York, it is not limited to individuals with disabilities. Surprisingly, eight percent of people in the UK have never learned to ride a traditional bicycle. For these individuals, a trike can serve as the ideal means of experiencing cycling.
The Importance of Wheel Size
When considering a trike, it is crucial to pay attention to the size of the wheels. Smaller wheels provide enhanced stability due to their lower center of gravity. Additionally, they offer greater maneuverability, making them advantageous for riders seeking increased control.
Discovering New Features
Some trikes possess an innovative feature known as the “piggy-back” trike, effectively transforming a regular bike into a tandem trike. Furthermore, certain trikes are equipped with electric assistance, which includes a “walking pace” function that allows for continuous movement even without pedaling.
Manufacturers have now started offering trikes with varying rim diameters, tire options, and suspension systems, catering to the needs of off-road cycling enthusiasts. These developments ensure that trikes are now suitable for adventurous rides on challenging terrains.
While a majority of trikes function as “delta trikes” with one wheel at the front and two at the rear, there are also “tadpole trikes” available. Tadpole trikes have two wheels at the front and one at the rear, providing enhanced stability, improved cornering capabilities, and increased accessibility for riders with visual impairments.
Exploring the World of Electric Bikes
An electric bike with a low step-through frame design can simplify the process of mounting and dismounting. Equipped with a battery and motor, electric bikes offer additional power assistance to riders. This feature enables cyclists to cover greater distances compared to their non-assisted counterparts.
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These bicycles are particularly beneficial for individuals who experience issues with balance and coordination. The addition of motor assistance means that less force is required to start moving, reducing the likelihood of your weight shifting off center.
In comparison to other bicycles, electric bikes tend to be heavier due to their motors and batteries. This can make mounting and maneuvering at low speeds more challenging.
To make it easier to get onto an electric bike, one option is to choose a model with a low step-through.
Battery range is also an important factor to consider when it comes to electric bikes. Different bikes come with different battery sizes, resulting in varying distances that can be traveled before needing to recharge. It is therefore advisable to consider how far you are likely to want to go and the time it takes to fully charge the bike’s battery.
It’s possible that you may require a different seating position or style than what is offered by mainstream electric bikes. In such cases, an electric recumbent bike might be a worthwhile option to consider.
Tandems
Tandems are an excellent choice for individuals with visual impairments. Trevor Williams / Getty Images Traditional tandems consist of two people riding together, with a ‘captain’ steering at the front and a ‘stoker’ providing additional pedal power at the rear.
Nowadays, tandems come in various shapes and sizes. This includes side-by-side tandems and tandems where the captain and stoker positions have been swapped, allowing disabled cyclists to have a full view without the need for steering. There are even tandems equipped with ‘trike’ rear wheels to provide additional stability.
Tandems are also well-suited for able-bodied riders who have either visual or cognitive impairments.
Mission Cycles in Kent offers a ‘piggy-back’ trike that can be attached to any bicycle, effectively transforming it into a tandem trike. This offers a cost-effective and practical solution for getting young individuals or adults involved in cycling.
Many tandems require both riders to pedal in sync, but Van Raam and Nijland offer tandems with clutch configurations that enable riders to pedal at their own pace.
With a range of options available, it’s important to consider which type of tandem would be best suited for you. A traditional tandem with the captain at the front might be suitable, but a side-by-side tandem or a tandem with recumbent seats may be more preferable. Alternatively, a tandem that can accommodate riders of different heights can be an even better choice.
Maintaining balance is an essential factor to bear in mind. A tandem with a trike rear or additional support for the trunk and lower back can make the stoker feel more comfortable. Riders may also benefit from a low step-through design to facilitate easier access to the tandem.
Buying a specialist adaptive tandem can also provide additional room and a greater number of upright seating positions.
Handcycles
Handcycles are a perfect option for individuals with reduced strength in the lower body or paralysis. Adamkaz / Getty Images For those who have limited lower-body strength or are paralyzed, handcycles offer a solution for cycling independently whilst preserving freedom.
They can be as simple as a front wheel that clips on and a hand-propelled drivetrain, which can be attached to an everyday wheelchair or a separate handcycle.
Given that arms are generally less powerful compared to legs, it is essential to consider the gear ratio and setup of a handcycle.
The steering, braking, gear shifting, and propulsion are all controlled by the hand grips, so it is crucial to ensure that you have the correct crank-arm length and pedaling position to maximize comfort and efficiency.
In the case of handcycles, it is important to pay attention to the size of the wheels and the gear ratios. These factors greatly influence maneuverability, pedaling, and wheel traction.
The height of a handcycle also plays a role in how easily you can transfer from a wheelchair to the bicycle. As a general guideline, the higher the riding position, the smoother the transition will be.
Where would you like to take your handcycle for a ride? Handcycles cater to various riding styles, including off-road, time-trials, or leisurely touring.
The style and position of the seat can significantly impact the overall comfort of a handcycle. You may require a handcycle with more support for the trunk, a more reclined position, or a more upright one. Furthermore, it is worth considering the most comfortable pedal height for your arms.
Recumbents
‘Tadpole’ recumbents have two front wheels and one rear wheel. ICE Trikes Recumbents are three-wheeled cycles in which the rider reclines and positions their legs in front of them, resting on the pedals. The control of recumbents is achieved through grips located on either side of the seat.
Recumbents: A Diverse and Accessible Choice for Riders
Recumbents have a wide-ranging appeal that caters to different groups of riders. They are particularly popular among neuro-diverse individuals, those with back and/or balance issues, as well as riders who simply prefer a riding position that allows them to keep their heads upright and look forward.
One of the key advantages of recumbents is their low center of gravity, which provides greater stability. Additionally, the seated cockpit offers a sense of security for the rider.
According to Phil Zschiesche of ICE Trikes, the appeal of recumbents extends to a diverse range of individuals. They are suitable for everyone, from autistic youngsters who have never been able to cycle a traditional bike, to disabled US military veterans who have broken multiple world records on recumbents.
For individuals with spinal cord injuries who still wish to hit the trails, fully electric recumbent trikes can be the ideal solution. Leading the way in this field is North American manufacturer Bowhead Corp, offering adventure ebikes that are fully electric and high-spec, allowing riders to return to the trails on recumbent mountain trikes.
Similar to trikes, recumbents are divided into two main types: tadpole and delta. Tadpole recumbents, like tadpole trikes, offer superior stability and enhanced cornering capabilities.
Due to the semi-reclined position, the amount of power exerted by leg muscles on a recumbent is reduced compared to an upright bike. If this is a concern, it may be worth considering investing in a recumbent with an electric motor or easier gear ratios.
Much like other adaptive bikes, the seat position and style can greatly impact comfort. Consider options such as tandems with upright or more reclined seats, wider seats, or even the inclusion of harnesses or torso support to find the best fit for your needs.
Wheelchair Tandems and Carriers: Enhancing Accessibility
Specialist tandems offer individuals with full paralysis the opportunity to experience the joy of cycling. These tandems feature a fully supportive seat or provide space for a rider in their wheelchair, which can be securely locked in place.
Due to the weight of these bikes, electric assistance is typically included as a standard feature. The beauty of these tandems lies in the fact that the wheelchair user remains close enough to the able-bodied rider, allowing for easy conversation while still providing a panoramic view of the journey. However, one downside is that passengers may get cold easily due to the lack of protection from the elements.
Other wheelchair-accessible cycles transport the wheelchair user in their own chair, which is placed on a platform in front of the bike. Alternatively, there are models that incorporate a detachable bucket seat for the disabled rider, serving as a wheelchair upon reaching the desired destination.
It’s important to keep in mind that detachable ‘wheelchairs’ are not crash tested and therefore cannot be used in wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The transportation of wheelchair tandems can be challenging due to their weight and size.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
When it comes to riders with disproportionate Dwarfism, the Islabikes Joni offers a tailored and exciting option. The Joni 20 and Joni 24 models, designed specifically for riders with this condition, feature low step-throughs, shorter cranks, and brake levers. These design elements better accommodate their riders’ shorter limbs, fingers, and potential joint issues.
Alternatively, you may simply require a lighter bike or one with a low step-through feature.
While Islabikes has always prioritized lightweight designs even in their adult models, Van Raam has gone a step further with their Comfort bike. The Comfort bike offers a low step-through design and moves the drivetrain forwards, allowing riders to pedal comfortably while still being able to place their feet on the ground when seated.
For some riders, modifications to their existing bike may be sufficient. Neil Stanford, senior mechanic at Get Cycling CIC in York, explains that something as simple as “moving all the controls to one side of the handlebar” can greatly benefit hemiplegic riders who have had strokes. Similarly, “adding a pendulum crank on one side” can assist riders who have undergone knee replacements.
Electronic groupsets not only allow for gears to be set up with a single lever, but their lightweight shifting controls can also provide relief for individuals with arthritis.
Guidance on Purchasing an Adaptive Bike
If you are considering investing in an adaptive bike, it is advisable to consult a dealer or adaptive bike specialist.
“Often, people come in with preconceived notions of what they believe will work for them, only to realize it’s not the right fit,” Stanford explains.
Prices for adaptive bikes range from £500 for piggy-back trikes to several thousand pounds for more specialized models. The higher prices can sometimes make acquiring an adaptive bike appear challenging. However, there are multiple options available to help you get started.
Charities and Not-for-Profits: A Beneficial Choice
In the realm of options available to support individuals with disabilities, charities and not-for-profit organizations (CICs) play a significant role. An exciting prospect lies in adaptive cycling groups found within your local area. These groups often provide free or affordable access to bicycles. While limitations may confine your cycling endeavors to a specific area, this opportunity allows you to explore a range of bikes and interact with fellow riders in a meaningful way.
If you are registered as disabled in the UK, you may be eligible for VAT relief on products specifically designed or adapted for your disability. This includes adaptive bicycles. Manufacturers and dealers are well-informed about the intricacies of this relief and can provide you with further information on the subject.
Another avenue to explore is funding. Certain charitable organizations offer grants specifically designed to assist in purchasing adaptive bikes. It is worthwhile to search for organizations that cater to your geographical or medical requirements, as well as those that provide support for adults with disabilities.
Two Inspiring Real-Life Stories of Adaptive Bikes
Now, let’s delve into two extraordinary case studies that illustrate the tremendous impact adaptive bikes can have on individuals and families.
The Empowering Journey of Thomas Mumford: Van Raam OPair Electric Wheelchair Bike
Caroline Mumford shares the heartwarming story of her son, Thomas. Thomas, aged 15, possesses quadriplegic cerebral palsy, which encompasses involuntary movements but includes good head control.
When Thomas and his sister were younger, a cargo bike became their mode of transportation for navigating through town, allowing both of them to ride together.
During a family holiday in Cambridgeshire, their paths intersected with Van Raam wheelchair bikes for the first time. However, due to various circumstances, they didn’t pursue the idea at that moment as their family dynamics were different.
As Thomas’ younger sister, Emily, became an independent cyclist, Caroline revisited the idea of wheelchair bikes to facilitate cycling as a family activity once again.
When they deemed themselves ready, Ashfield Special Needs visited their home to provide a demonstration of the Van Raam OPair. The decision to choose this bike was an easy one since Thomas possesses the ability to perform a ‘standing transfer,’ rendering the need for lifting obsolete. Consequently, the OPair, equipped with a bucket seat, emerged as the suitable option.
Caroline believed that Thomas should experience the joy of riding a bike rather than merely being a passenger in his wheelchair. The seat itself is a standard tub seat complemented by harnesses tailored to the individual’s movements.
The simple, everyday rides to nearby shops or the town exemplify the rides they cherish the most, just like any other family.
The bike’s versatility shines through its detachable front chair. This feature allows them to effortlessly maneuver around their destination, providing exceptional flexibility. For instance, during holidays, when they bring the bike along, they can embark on cycling adventures and spend an entire day immersed in exploration.
However, one drawback they encountered while exploring off-road options was the lack of crash testing. Consequently, Thomas must travel in a separate wheelchair, making it necessary to transport both the bike and chair. Often, this calls for the use of two large vehicles.
Thomas revels in every moment spent on the bike. The wind caressing his face and the change in scenery provide him with a sense of movement and speed, which he cannot experience in his manual chair. For the Mumford family, cycling is yet another activity they indulge in as a united front.
While they also enjoy cycling with friends, these outings require a bit more planning. Nonetheless, the significance of engaging in activities as a family is immeasurable in a world where disabilities often present obstacles. They have always made things work, but as Thomas grew older, it became more challenging. Now, with both children capable of independent cycling, they can always cycle together.
Discovering suitable cycling paths has been made possible through recommendations from friends, family, and their local community. In some instances, the paths pose challenges due to their camber, which is more arduous to navigate than the path’s surface itself.
Their choice of ride destinations often takes into consideration the presence of Changing Places facilities, offering peace of mind. By selecting destinations equipped with such facilities, they can plan activities centered around these conveniences.
Fortunately, they received funding for their electric wheelchair bike through a local charity named Cantiacorum. This organization focuses specifically on their geographical area, but numerous other sources of funding are available.
Unleashing New Possibilities: CeCe Balfour’s Story of Joyful Cycling
Vicky Balfour shares the inspirational journey of her daughter, CeCe. CeCe was born with a genetic mutation and autism, which led to a blend of physical and cognitive diversity. Additionally, she suffers from bi-lateral squints, which impairs her ability to perceive depth in 3D. Consequently, her balance and mobility are affected.
Their initial attempt at family cycling, when CeCe was only four years old and placed in a trailer, proved to be disastrous. Consequently, they almost abandoned the idea of cycling altogether. However, another family eventually gifted them a used Mission Cycles pull-along trike, complete with adaptations such as trunk support and weighted pedals to assist with foot placement.
Initially, there were reservations about the trike, leading to its confinement in the garage for an extended period. However, Vicky mustered the courage to attach it to her bike and gauge CeCe’s response.
CeCe quickly displayed her ability to control her upper body while seated on the trike, thereby rendering the trunk support unnecessary.
They commenced their cycling journey by navigating the yard in front of their house, finally progressing to local seafront rides. Eventually, they ventured uphill to explore a nearby cycle path, and from that point on, the world became their playground. They took the pull-along trike on outings to visit family, enjoy rides to the beach, and explore the wonders of the woods. CeCe embraced her newfound identity as a cyclist, and Vicky often shed tears of joy during these rides, as they finally discovered an activity that could be enjoyed by each family member with equal enthusiasm.
Over time, CeCe’s cycling skills developed, enabling her to ride independently on a Jorvik Jet-E trike. This upgrade was made possible through funding provided by Cantiacorum.
Understanding that companion cycling with CeCe on the pull-along trike and independent cycling on the trike offer different benefits has been a process. Neither approach is wrong; they simply vary in their advantages. Due to CeCe’s cognitive and visual impairments, independent cycling proves mentally exhausting for her, resulting in a slower pace and shorter distances covered—typically ranging from three to six kilometers. This, however, makes it ideal for leisurely coastal or riverside rides.
On the other hand, when riding on the pull-along trike with someone else controlling the bike, CeCe can participate in family rides spanning 25 to 30 kilometers, enabling them to embark on exhilarating adventures. Unlike fixed tandems, where CeCe would be unable to pedal if her legs grew tired, the pull-along trike provides the flexibility to allow her to rest whenever necessary.
Attempting to articulate the immense positive impact cycling has had on CeCe and their entire family is no easy task. Nonetheless, they are overjoyed that they embraced this endeavor, which allowed them to find customized solutions tailored to their needs.
Driven by their experiences, CeCe and Vicky now collaborate in running “Resilient Riders Canterbury,” an inclusive cycling group. This group organizes monthly rides, ensuring that everyone in the area can partake in enjoyable bike outings without fear of being left behind. And, of course, there is always cake to further sweeten these delightful adventures!
