Bike Camp for Kids with Disabilities

Author: Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 17 Apr 2009 - Updated: 15 Apr 2016

Contents: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Related Publications

Synopsis: Lose The Training Wheels teaches kids with disabilities to ride a two wheel bicycle and become lifelong independent riders.

Introduction

Lose the Training Wheels is a national organization that works with local social service agencies to host camps in their communities.

Main Content

The mission of Lose The Training Wheels is to teach individuals with disabilities to ride a conventional two wheel bicycle and become lifelong independent riders. This achievement, in turn, creates a gateway of opportunity, helping them gain assurance and self-reliance in many other aspects of their lives.

The Lose The Training Wheels bike program has grown from one camp and one fleet of bikes in 1999, to 50 camps across the U.S. and in Canada and five fleets of bikes in 2008.

With 75 minutes of instruction during five days, about 85 percent of campers learn to ride a conventional bicycle independently. Lose the Training Wheels uses specially-adapted bicycles and trained professionals and volunteers.

"Teaching kids with disabilities to ride a bike is what we do, but what we're really about is turning 'I can't' into 'I can.'"

All participants will receive a properly-fitted bike helmet that they must be willing and able to wear at all times when on a bicycle. Participants must be willing to follow instructions and have a desire to ride a bicycle independently.

To be eligible to enroll, participants must be at least 8 years old. They must have a disability but be able to walk without an assistive device such as a walker or cane. They must be able to side-step quickly to both sides. Participants must have a minimum inseam measurement of 20 inches and weigh no more than 250 pounds.

Cost of the camp is $100, with some scholarships available. To obtain an application or for more information, call 942-6300, extension 271. Applications and payment must be received by May 1.

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.