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Adaptive (Buddy) Cycling Equipment: Now everyone can experience the joy!

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Adaptive (Buddy) Cycling Equipment: Now everyone can experience the joy!

The Cycling Experience can be Accessible to Everyone!

Mobility issues need not keep you from experiencing a bike ride. All you need to enjoy cycling on or off road, is a friend with a bike and an accessibility cart. Also referred to as bike trailers or adaptive cycling equipment, they’re designed to attach to a regular bicycle, allowing a rider to tow you safely and comfortably. 

Key features of these clever inventions:

Safety and Stability: equipped with a robust frame, and secure harnesses or seat belts to keep the passenger safely seated. Often featuring a low center of gravity to enhance stability.

Comfort: it could be a rough ride, but you’ll have padded seating with back support, and adjustable seating positions to accommodate your needs. Some models come with weather protection like canopies or windshields!

Easy to Use: a simple attachment mechanism connects to various types of bicycles. Lightweight materials minimize additional effort for the rider, and quick-release wheels make it easy to transport and store.

Versatility: when not out on the trails, these rigs can be used for a variety of purposes, including recreational biking, commuting, or even light cargo transport. Some models are designed for specific conditions, like off-road biking.


Brands to check out:

Wike: known for its wide range of accessible bike trailers, including models for adults and children with disabilities. Featuring reclining seats, extra-wide doors, and heavy-duty suspension.


https://wikeinc.com/collections/special-needs



Weehoo: offers bike trailers that focus on allowing children to pedal along, promoting active participation. Known for the Weehoo iGo series which includes harnesses and adjustable footrests.


https://rideweehoo.com



Burley: produces a variety of bike trailers, including those designed for passengers with special needs. Features include: reclining seats, adjustable suspension, and compatibility with a wide range of bikes.


https://burley.com



Equinox: The "adult" trailer is a bicycle trailer for special use needs often for mobility impaired individuals. The seat is similar to a beach chair, hung like a hammock on an elevated frame, with overhead "roll bar".



Advantages!

Inclusion: provides an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to participate in biking activities. Encourages family and group rides, fostering a sense of inclusion and togetherness.

Physical and Mental Health: promotes outdoor activities beneficial for physical and mental health, and it’s a fun and engaging way to enjoy nature and explore new places.

Versatility: in addition to carrying passengers, it can be used for a variety of purposes like carrying groceries.


Potential Disadvantages

Cost: high-quality accessibility carts can be expensive, and there may be additional costs for maintenance and modifications.

Weight & Size: they can add significant weight and size to the bike, making it harder to maneuver, and storage can be challenging if space is limited.

Terrain Limitations: not all models are suitable for rough or uneven terrain. You’ll need to carefully consider your route and the terrain to ensure safety and comfort.


Accessibility carts for bikes are an excellent solution for making biking more inclusive and enjoyable for individuals with mobility challenges. They come with various features designed to ensure safety, comfort, and ease of use. While there are some challenges and costs associated with their use, the benefits of inclusion, improved physical and mental health, and versatility make them a valuable addition to the biking community. Ride on!

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