FACT. 33% of disabled people are keen on cycling.
There are two myths about cycling and that it is only for the strong and fit, and that a standard two-wheeled bicycle is the only kind of cycle there is. WRONG!
Research shows 33% of disabled people would like to cycle, cycling is easier than walking for three quarters of disabled cyclists – which means bicycles are a mobility aid for disabled riders.
As per the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 1 in 5 people in England and Wales have a disability. Disabled people are twice as likely as non-disabled people to be inactive, and probably are more likely to rely on driving or being driven.
Cycles come in many shapes and sizes, from regular bikes and EBIKES to tricycles and side-by-side tandems. As some disabilities are not obvious to the casual observer, someone’s disability may not be noticeable while they are cycling, even if they have difficulty walking. Bicycle shops can help to encourage disabled people and families to perhaps buy cargo bikes, or non-standard cycles.
Get Cycling CiC are able to offer advice to cycle shops on what kind of bicycle or adaptation a disabled customer may need such as straps on pedals to single brake levers that can apply both brakes at once.
Non-standard bicycles may be expensive, with tricycles priced up to £3,000 – so having somewhere to try before you buy can be just the ticket. Some towns and cities have inclusive cycling hubs where people can help, these are few and far between.
Be safe, wear cycling safety gear
Far more information go to : https://cyclingindustry.news/how-to-open-up-cycling-to-disabled-people/
