Short Description
The FREEDOM WHEELS Modified Bike Service modifies standard bicycles so that children with disabilities can ride them. This can give a child new opportunities for independence, inclusion and exercise. Bikes are also sometimes modified for adults.
More Details
A range of modifications are available. These can be combined to meet the individual support and stability needs of each child.
These modifications may include
* a wider seat
* stabiliser or "outrigger" wheels
* postural supports such as pelvic belts, back and head support plates, and hip and thoracic fins
* footcups
* gloves to assist with gripping the handlebars
* modified handlebars
* towbars
Careful assessment is required to determine the modifications required to suit the age, height, weight, type of disability and physical and cognitive abilities of the child.
Generally this occurs at a bike clinic where TADNSW's staff bring sample bikes and modification components to use in the process. Input from the child's carers and therapists is also important at this stage.
The components used in the modifications are designed to fit a specific bike frame, so families cannot provide their own bikes. However the FREEDOM WHEELS bike frames are supplied at lower than recommended retail prices. TADNSW fund the cost of staff input, so clients only pay for the bike and the components required for the modifications.
How to order a FREEDOM WHEELS bike
* If there is a therapist involved in the child's care, they should be consulted to determine whether bike riding is a suitable activity for the child. (TADNSW will advise on this if the child does not have a therapist.)
* Therapists are encouraged to attend the child's assessment appointments if possible
To apply for a bike, please submit a FREEDOM WHEELS Application Form (available from the TADNSW website). FREEDOM WHEELS staff will contact you to make an appointment for an assessment. After the assessment you will receive a quote and assembly of the bike will begin once the quote has been accepted.
TADNSW holds regular bike assessment clinics in Sydney and in major population centres in New South Wales. Please contact TAD or view their schedule of clinics online for locations and dates of proposed clinics.