Choosing the Right Adaptive Motorcycle
Getting back on your bike after an accident or living with a disability doesn’t mean you have to hang up your helmet for good. Thanks to adaptive technology, there are plenty of ways for riders with different needs to continue enjoying the freedom of the open road.
It can be a bit overwhelming if you’re considering getting an adaptive motorcycle. But don’t worry! This guide will break it down for you, helping you understand your options and how to find the right bike for you. Let’s dive in.
1. Understanding Your Needs: Mobility, Strength, and Comfort
The first step is to consider your own needs. Everyone’s recovery is different, so figuring out what works best for you is vital.
- How is your mobility? Can you use both legs and arms or is one side weaker or less mobile?
- Strength: Do you have enough muscle strength to ride a regular bike or need something more accessible to control?
- Comfort: Comfort is critical, especially if recovering from an injury. Do you need a seat with extra support or foot pegs that you can adjust?
Once you know your needs, you’ll be better positioned to choose the right bike and modifications.
It might be helpful to chat with your doctor about your long-term needs if your condition fluctuates.
2. Trikes vs. Two-Wheeled Motorcycles: What’s Right for You?
Deciding between a trike (three-wheeled bike) and a two-wheeled bike with modifications is an important choice for riders with disabilities. Each option has its benefits depending on what you need, like stability, comfort, and ease of movement.
Below, I’ve broken down the key differences to help you pick the right bike for your needs and riding style.
| Trikes (Three-Wheeled Motorcycles)
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Two-Wheeled Motorcycles
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| Stability | It is more stable and ideal for those with limited leg or core strength. | Requires balance, which can be tricky for those with limited leg strength. |
| Comfort | Larger, more comfortable seats are ideal for long rides. | Smaller seats might require more adjustments for comfort. |
| Maneuverability | Less manoeuvrable, wider, and harder to move in tight spaces. | More agile and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. |
| Turning Radius | A larger turning radius requires more space to turn. | Smaller turning radius, easier to turn in tight spots. |
| Familiar Feel | It’s a new riding experience, but it may take some getting used to. | Classic feel for experienced riders. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive, especially for new trikes. | Modifying a bike for accessibility can be costly. |
| Ideal for | Riders who need more stability and comfort or have limited leg mobility. | Riders who prefer the classic two-wheeled experience and better agility. |
3. Hand Controls vs. Controls: What’s Best for You?
When adapting your motorcycle to suit your needs, one of the key decisions is whether to use hand or traditional foot controls. The right choice depends on your mobility, strength, and comfort. Below, we’ve compared the two options to help you decide the best fit for you.
| Feature | Hand-Controlled Systems | Foot-Controlled Systems |
| Ideal For | Riders with limited leg mobility (e.g., injury or amputation). | Riders who have strong legs and are familiar with foot controls. |
| Pros | Allows bike operation using hands. | Familiar and comfortable for most riders. |
| Customisable to suit personal comfort (e.g., adjusting throttle and brake). | It is easier on hands and arms, reducing strain on the upper body. | |
| Cons | Requires strength in hands and arms to control the bike. | It can be challenging for riders with limited leg mobility. |
| Customisation | Highly customisable for comfort and ease of use. | There is less customisation, but it might need some modifications for accessibility. |
4. Working with a Mechanic to Customise Your Bike
Once you’ve decided on the type of bike and controls that work for you. It’s time to talk to a mechanic about the necessary modifications. Here’s how to approach it:
- Find the Right Mechanic: Look for someone with experience with adaptive motorcycles. They’ll follow what works best for your specific needs.
- Be Clear About What You Need: Whether you need hand controls, a different seat, or something else, explain your requirements so the mechanic can recommend the proper modifications.
- Safety First: Make sure all the changes are safe and done correctly. Once your bike is ready, take it for a test ride to ensure everything feels comfortable and works well.
- Keep in Touch: You may need to adjust as your recovery progresses. Contact your mechanic to tweak the bike as needed.
5. Other factors to consider
| Consideration | Why It Matters | What to Think About |
| Seat Comfort and Adjustments | Comfort is important for long rides, especially after an injury. | Look for seats with extra padding or custom designs that help with pressure points. Adjustable backrests can help with back support. |
| Handlebar Position | The handlebar position affects how you sit and how easy it is to control the bike. | Make sure the handlebars are at a height that suits you. Adjustable ones can reduce strain on your arms and shoulders. |
| Foot Pegs/Footrest Adjustments | For riders with leg mobility issues, adjusting footrests is key to comfort. | Ensure footrests are positioned so you don’t strain your legs. Lardon’tootrests may offer more comfort. |
| Weight Distribution and Balance | A well-balanced bike is easier to control, especially if you have limited strength. | Some bikes are designed to be more stable. You can also add stabilisers or adjust the suspension to improve balance. |
| Throttle and Brake Modifications | You may need special controls if your legs or arms are limited. | Look for hand controls or easy-to-use throttle and brake systems. Some setups allow you to control both with one hand. |
| Electric Start and Automatic Transmission | Kick-starting or using manual gear can be hard for some riders. | Consider bikes with an electric start and automatic transmission for less physical effort. |
| Rider Visibility and Safety Features | Being seen on the road is important, especially for riders with mobility challenges. | Add extra lights, reflectors, or high-visibility decals to make you more noticeable. Trikes with reverse gear are also safer in tight spots. |
| Weight of the Bike | Heavier bikes are harder to manoeuvre, especially if you lack strength. | Look for lighter bikes or ones with reverse gear or other assistance features for easier handling. |
| Maintenance and Repairs | Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your bike safe, especially with mods. | Make sure your mechanic knows how to service adaptive bikes and check the custom parts regularly. |
| Budget and Costs | Modifications can be pricey, so it’s important to plan for their costs. | Research the costs of mods and see if any financial help or grants are available to make it more affordable. |
| Test Ride Before Buying | A test ride helps you know if the bike or modifications work for you. | Always test the bike before committing to ensure it’s comfortable and easy to adapt |
| 12. Insurance and Licensing | Modifications might change your insurance or licensing needs. | Check with your insurer to make sure your bike and modifications are covered, and find out if new licensing is needed. |
Check out the National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD)
The National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD) is a UK charity that helps motorcyclists with disabilities continue to ride safely and comfortably. Founded in 1991, NABD supports riders with various disabilities, offering practical advice and resources.
What NABD Offers:
- Bike Modifications: Guidance on adaptive equipment and custom modifications, such as hand controls or trikes, to suit individual needs.
- Support & Advice: We can help you find funding for bike changes and provide advice on training, insurance, and accessibility.
- Community & Events: Organises rallies and ride-outs for riders with disabilities, providing opportunities to meet others and raise awareness.
- Grants: Offers financial support to help with the cost of bike adaptations.
- Training: Access to specialised rider training to help you regain confidence and skills on adapted bikes.
Disclaimer:
This website is not intended to replace professional services or provide legal advice. It is designed to offer general information and guide you in the right direction, helping you understand key topics related to motorcycle accidents. Please consult a qualified professional for specific legal, medical, or financial advice.