Cycling beyond sport: How e-bikes and trikes empower people with disabilities

January 27, 2025

group of walkers in a park with man on trike in foreground

When policymakers and the media frame cycling as a sport or a pursuit for the young, fit, and able-bodied, they miss a crucial aspect of its value: cycling as an everyday transport option. And for many people with disabilities, bicycles and tricycles - particularly electric models - are not just modes of transport but essential mobility aids.

Research by Wheels for Wellbeing reveals that 75% of disabled cyclists find cycling easier than walking. The same proportion report using their cycle as a mobility aid, akin to a wheelchair or mobility scooter. For these riders, cycling is an essential tool for independence and mobility.

Front view of happy young disabled man riding hand bike in the park. He is smiling

The power of e-bikes and trikes

Electric bikes and trikes open up new possibilities for individuals who face mobility challenges. Whether it’s balance issues, joint strain, or limited stamina, adapted cycles allow riders to cover distances that might otherwise be punishing or impossible. With the ability to travel independently, many find they can reduce their reliance on public transport or costly taxi services.

Beyond practicality, cycling provides physical and mental health benefits. With approval from a medical professional, it can help alleviate joint strain, improve balance, and even assist with breathing difficulties. Crucially, it’s an active form of travel that contributes to overall well-being.

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The challenge of car-centric thinking

Despite the clear benefits, many policymakers remain blinkered by car-centric logic, neglecting the needs of disabled cyclists. Infrastructure often fails to accommodate adapted cycles. Cycle lanes may be too narrow for trikes, while poorly designed bollards and barriers can block access altogether. Such oversights deny people the opportunity to enjoy cycling as a practical and personal mobility solution.

We must move beyond the assumption that cycling infrastructure only serves fast, two-wheeled commuters. Instead, policymakers need to recognise the diverse ways people use cycles, particularly as mobility aids.

Inclusive insurance

For over 30 years, the ETA has championed sustainable and inclusive transport through initiatives like Green Transport Week and Car Free Day. Alongside these campaigns, our cycle insurance has provided peace of mind to abroad spectrum of riders.

For example, the 24/7 Cycle Rescue service we pioneered is particularly valued by those with adapted cycles, who may feel less confident handling breakdowns on their own.

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man using hand cycle in a park
Hand cycles replace traditional pedals with hand cranks

Cycling is far more than a sport or leisure activity. For many, it’s avital form of mobility that fosters independence and improves quality of life. By designing inclusive infrastructure, challenging car-centric policies, and being aware of support networks like Cycle Rescue, we can ensure cycling remains accessible to everyone - regardless of ability.

Trikes: stability and versatility

Tricycles, with their three-wheel design, are ideal for people with a wide range of disabilities. Trikes are sometimes fitted with foot plates to assist pedalling and are available in upright or recumbent designs.

Tandems: teamwork and accessibility

Tandems are designed for two riders and come in a variety of configurations, including two, three, or four wheels. They’re particularly useful for individuals with visual impairments. Alternatively, a 'tag-along' setup - half a bike attached to the back of a standard cycle - provides a partner-assisted cycling experience.

Hand cycles: powered by arms

Hand cycles replace traditional pedals with hand cranks, allowing riders to propel themselves using their arms. These cycles are perfect for people with limited or no lower-body mobility.

Hand cycles typically have three wheels, but some models include four and may feature an electric motor for extra assistance. Designs that attach to wheelchairs are also available, offering even more flexibility.

Recumbent cycles: comfort and control

Recumbent bikes and trikes provide a solution for riders who find traditional upright bikes uncomfortable or impractical. The reclined position reduces strain on the neck, back, and arms, making them an excellent choice for those with joint pain or reduced flexibility. With a lower centre of gravity, recumbent cycles are also highly stable.

Elderly man rides a recumbent bicycle beside river

Wheelchair cycles: inclusive options for everyone

For those who cannot ride independently, wheelchair cycles offer a way to experience the joy of cycling. Some designs allow wheelchair users to transfer into a front-mounted seat, while others feature trailers that accommodate wheelchairs. This type of design is often an e-trike - the power assistance giving greater range.

Low step-through bicycles: easy access for all

These bicycles are an easy to ride option for anyone, but they're particularly well suited to those with limited mobility or balance issues.

Broken down on your bike?

It's an unfortunate fact of life; bikes can break down. Even the shortest journey comes to an abrupt halt if you can't fix a flat tyre, broken chain or buckled wheel at the roadside. And that's even more disruptive if you rely on your cycle for transport. It's why 30 years ago we launched Cycle Rescue  - the first breakdown cover policy for bicycles.

ETA Cycle Rescue covers e-bikes, trikes and adapted cycles too. If you ride a road-legal electric bicycle, we’ll cover it against mechanical faults, punctures or a flat battery.

How does Cycle Rescue cover work?

If you suffer a breakdown (including punctures, or even a flat e-bike battery) while out cycling, or are unable to continue due to an injury, our 24-hour Cycle Rescue team is on hand to arrange transport for you and your bicycle to a safe location.

Cycle Rescue costs only £24 per year with no hidden extras to pay if your bicycle suffers a breakdown.

Get Cycle Rescue for free when you buy ETA cycle insurance

Every cycle insurance policy of ours includes the following as standard:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
Cycle Rescue
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)

cargo e-bike being carried on the back of a large breakdown recovery lorry


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The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

 

Information correct at time of publication.

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