Bikes for Special Needs

Riding doesn’t come easy for kids with special needs. However, this doesn’t mean that they cannot learn how to ride a bike. Cycling is good for kids.

Aside from being fun, it also gives them exercise and independence and improved coordination and stamina. If your child has special needs, getting a bike that is specially designed for his or her condition is your best bet.

Here are some of the best bikes for special needs.

Balance Bikes

Balance bikes are normal bicycles without pedals. These bikes have footrests and two large wheels. Balance bikes can teach children to balance faster and better. They learn to control a bike before even thinking about pedals. As they already have natural understanding about controlling and riding a bike, their first normal bike ride will be easier and more fun. Balance bikes also improve their coordination and confidence.  

Tandem Bikes

Tandem bikes are 2-seater bicycles. These bikes are also available in 3-seater. Tandem bikes allow people to share an activity with their loved ones. Parents can share a fun ride with their kids. A person with special needs who cannot ride a bike on his own would get the benefits and fun of cycling that he couldn’t experience on his own. They can ride with another person who can take the lead and make the riding decisions. Aside from allowing them to have fun, it builds a relationship of trust as well. Caregivers can ride with the child on a tandem bike designed to accommodate one child rider and one adult.

Recumbent Bikes

Recumbent bikes are great for children with and without disabilities. These bikes provide children with a fun ride and healthy exercise. Recumbent bikes are great for those who want easy cornering and better stability.  

Tricycles

Tricycles are easier to ride and balance than bikes. The 3 wheels on the ground support the child better than 2 wheels. The possibility of falling is also lesser, so the child is more inspired to ride the tricycle. Tricycles come in different designs and colors that suit the taste of children and have more areas where accessories such as baskets, toys and horns could be attached. For caregivers, tricycles provide a dynamic and safe modality for improving strength, coordination and balance. These cycles give riders a sense of self-mobility and help them build confidence. Tricycles also have multiple accessories and adjustments that further develop a person’s functional skills.

These bikes are great for kids with special needs who have balance problems, but want to ride a bike. Since these bikes come in various sizes, you can always find one that fits your child. Even if your child has learning problems or has limited movement, there are bikes that will allow your child to have fun and go out with the whole family. If positioning is a problem, there are bikes that offer head support, steering limiters, adapted pedals, straps, pullet systems and straps. There are also accessories that can convert standard bikes to meet certain needs.