There is something special about watching your child ride their bike for the first time. And for parents of special needs children, this feeling is magnified.
For years, kids with disabilities couldn’t ride alongside their siblings and friends due to a lack of adaptive bike options. Now, there are several adaptive bikes on the market and it can be hard to decide which one is the best.
What is the best adaptive bike for special needs? Every child has different mobility needs, so there is no one right answer.
We asked a group of parents which adaptive bike companies were the best, and these are the results:
Top 3 Best Adaptive Bike Companies:
- Freedom Concepts – One of the highlights of Freedom Concepts is their customizability. Each family can add accessories and customizations based on their child’s mobility needs.
- AMBUCS / Amtryke – The most notable feature about Amtryke is their Wish List program. Some families can’t afford adaptive bikes, and some insurance providers won’t cover the cost. That’s why AMBUCS (the company behind Amtrykes) started their Wish List program, where families can apply to have their child receive a donated bike.
- Rifton – While the Rifton doesn’t offer the same customizations as Freedom Concepts and AMBUCS, insurance is more likely to cover the bike. The Rifton Adaptive Tricycle also offers unique additions such as and a front guide bar and a stationary stand for indoor rainy day exercise. You can also make adjustments to the bike without tools.
Why Parents Top Choice Is Freedom Concepts
Parents love Freedom Concepts’ connection with families. They take time to focus on customizing bikes for the specific person. When a new family is looking to buy an adaptive bike, they give 110% to ensure your child receives the gift of a lifetime.
The main highlight of Freedom Concept adaptive bikes is their customizability. Since adaptive bikes are designed to cater to the rider’s needs, Freedom Concepts offers several bikes that use different propelling methods. They provide both foot-propelled bikes and hand-propelled bikes.
Freedom Concepts’ most popular series is the Discovery. This series is excellent for individuals with weak upper extremities and poor trunk and head control. The Discovery has models for individuals from 18 months old to adulthood.
One feature that sets Freedom Concepts apart from other adaptive bikes is its gearing options. The most common style in adaptive bikes is Direct Drive. This means that when the bike is moving forward, the petals move forward as well.
However, if your child wants to rest their legs on the pedals, you can prevent the pedals from moving with the on/off pin reciprocator. All you have to do is pull a pin to lock the pedals in place.
Last but certainly not least, Freedom Concepts is the only company on this list that offers an electric assist motor as an accessory.
What To Look For In An Adaptive Bike
Depending on trunk stability and other mobility factors, some kids may need supports (e.g., lateral, head), belts (e.g., lap, shoulder), hip abductors, or other equipment. And if your child uses a communication device, the bike should also include a communication tray. If you’re unsure which accessories you need for the bike, consult with a physical therapist or another medical professional.
Additionally, adaptive tricycles should have flexible steering options. This means that there is more than one way to steer the bike.
For kids who require more assistance, AMBUCS and Freedom Concepts offer multiple steering options. When your child is excited and ready to ride, a full steering option puts them in control of their bike. And if they get tired and need you to steer them, both companies have rear steering with hand brakes for caregivers.
All adaptive bikes should be easy to reposition through their quick-release levers. This provides comfort for the riders, and it makes it easier for wheelchair users to transfer on the bike.
Where To Buy An Adaptive Bike
When purchasing an adaptive bike, it is best to go directly through the manufacturer. This is also important if your child requires customizations.
You can purchase an Amtryke by contacting your local Ambucs Chapter and visiting their online store here.
To buy a Freedom Concepts adaptive bike, you can explore the options on their website, and contact the company directly.
And to order an adaptive tricycle from Rifton, you can visit their online store here.
How To Get A Donated Adaptive Bike
One way to obtain a free adaptive bike is to join The Great Bike Giveaway annual event. It allows participants to get a Freedom Concepts adaptive bike through votes, raffles, and fundraising. You can find more information about the event by clicking here.
You can also receive a donated adaptive bike by applying for the AMBUCS Wish List. Follow the directions on their website here.