Why are trikes inclusive?

Tricycles are three-wheeled bikes that are great for those who want extra support and stability while cycling. As tricycles have three wheels, this means that the rider does not need to be able to balance the same as on a two-wheeler.

Tricycles are great for those with learning disabilities, such as dyspraxia or autism, or those recovering from illnesses such as strokes.

Why is cycling good for those with disabilities?  

Cycling has many benefits, including giving independence to those without a car, and encouraging good physical wellness. However, cycling can be difficult for those who have disabilities, and this is why there are many adaptations out there to make cycling easier for those with disabilities.

 One of the most popular adaptations out there is the tricycle. Tricycles make cycling accessible for everyone, as their wheels make for good stability. Other benefits include:

• Good for mental wellbeing

Heading outside amongst nature and fresh air can be one of the best things for a person’s mental wellbeing, and it can give you more energy and help with general brain functioning. Looking after your mental health is important for anyone, but for people with a disability, looking after your mental health is even more important.

 One study revealed that 54% of people with learning disabilities have a mental health problem, and there could be a number of reasons for this, including:

• Biology and genetics may increase vulnerability to mental health problems
• A high incidence of negative life events
• Access to fewer resources and coping
• The impact of other people’s attitudes

Unfortunately, mental health problems are not always recognised in people that have learning disabilities, are there is a clear gap between mental health services and learning disability services. This often means those with learning disabilities are left to their own devices when it comes to managing their mental health, or their family might not always be given the correct support.

If you are able to get in contact with the right services, there are many ways to treat mental health problems in people with a learning disability such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Therapy, Intervention Practices, and certain medication. However, there are other ways that can help a mental health diagnosis, such as physical exercise.  

For those who are elderly or have disabilities, tricycles open so many opportunities to see more of the world. Some older adults or disabled adults are often confined to their homes due to mobility issues, which can cause anxiety or depression or make mental health conditions worse. So, a tricycle is great for older adults as they make appropriate mobility aids and in turn, their mental wellbeing is likely to improve by using one.

• Good for socialising

Tricycles can also be good for mental health because of the community they could introduce you to. There is a huge community of tricycle riders in the UK, with websites such as the Tricycle Association providing a place where fellow tricyclists can keep u to date with all things tricycles. There are also many social media pages dedicated to tricycles, making it easier to get to know people who have the same interest as you.

For a disabled person, a person recovering from an illness, or an older adult, a tricycle will make meeting friends easier. Instead of driving a car or hopping onto a busy bus, you can leisurely ride on your tricycle to your favourite park or café to catch up with friends and family you might not have otherwise been able to see.

If you are interested in Jorvik tricycles and what they could offer, then please get in touch with the team here. Jorvik have a range of trikes for sale, so whatever your needs and design preferences are, you'll be sure to find the one for you.