Cerebral palsy & riding a bike

Two-wheel bike riding can be a goal for children with cerebral palsy (CP) and a means of participating in physical activity. It is possible for some children with CP to ride a two-wheel bike; however, currently far fewer can ride compared with their typically developing peers. The role of training by people with CP, to improve outcomes has been seen to be significant. Finding alternatives to a two-wheel bike for those who do not have access to appropriate training is also important.

At EveryBody eBikes, we aim to find a solution which is safe, fun and appropriate for all pre-existing and new skills/abilities. Some of our riders are not able to propel themselves independently and certainly not on a two-wheeler. But we combine our skills with ebikes and trikes with custom modifications, and we have been able to help so many riders get out and about.

Typical conditions:

Balance control
Inflexibility
Muscle rigidity & spasms
Differences between sides of the body

As the Cerebral Palsy Alliance so clearly states, "Remember the first time you rode a bike with the wind in your face, the excitement of being independent, the feeling that you were free! Every child should be able to enjoy that experience."

Benefits – Top 4 reasons for people with CP to ride a bike:

Desire - children want to do it
Confidence - riding increases independence and skills
Social participation - with your family and peers
Bonding - it is a community activity, whether with parents, grandparents or friends

Safety is paramount. Whether this means the use of a semi-recumbent to provide a seat rather than a saddle, fitted with a chest strap and customised heel cup strap pedals or the supply of a folding electric bicycle fitted with adult stabilisers and a backrest support with lateral pads, we can help. We have designed some unique solutions for side-steering, remote braking and remote-control of the electric motor and regularly fit these to special needs tricycles. We also can customise rear-steering and braking options to enable an attendant to manage hills even with adult riders. So many options for our CP community!

Case studies:

T.H. (BF i-Tri 24)

O. E. (link to Ordinary Extraordinary YouTube) (12" Rehatri with ekit)

Contact us to discuss your options & speak with our team of specialists!

Sources: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/dmcn.13340

http://dro.deakin.edu.au/eserv/DU:30113444/shih-bikeskillstraining-2018.pdf https://www.cerebralpalsy.org.au/sstposts/StoryId1518489890035