Cycling should be an experience everyone can enjoy, and ensuring our trails are accessible is a vital step toward creating inclusive outdoor spaces. For riders in the disabled community, a seamless journey (free from steps, barriers, and unnecessary obstacles) is essential to feeling safe and comfortable.
The Hauraki Rail Trail has been designed with accessibility in mind. With cattle-stops measuring 1300mm wide and bridges as narrow as 1100mm, the trail accommodates most adaptive cycling needs, making it a welcoming option for riders of all abilities. Importantly, these features also benefit kids, novice riders, and older adults, fostering a sense of independence and belonging. When our trails are accessible, more people can experience the physical, emotional, and social rewards of cycling, creating a healthier and more connected community for everyone.
In August 2022, 17 year old Liam Carter took a path that changed everything. He began working with Bike Action Hamilton, a cycling advocacy group. Through them, he discovered his passion for triking and mobility. Meeting the community from the organisation inspired him to attend council meetings, participate in media campaigns, and organise group rides. He realised that cycling (specifically triking) was where his passion lay, and subsequently he wanted to create a space where everyone could experience that freedom, regardless of physical limitations.
We asked Liam to tell us more about adaptive riding, and his vision for Ride Your Trike NZ.
How has cerebral palsy shaped your journey as both a cyclist and business owner?
Living with cerebral palsy, walking has always been a challenge for me. My journey with trikes began at the age of 5. The ability to ride my trike and experience newfound independence has been truly life-changing. Today, I can independently explore every corner of Hamilton. Watching and helping to change peoples independence is so special to me.
Can you share your vision for Ride Your Trike NZ? Where do you see the business heading?
I have a big vision for Ride Your Trike NZ, and our education branch Try a Trike. I hope to move to Tauranga (Mount Maunganui) and open a shop which will serve as a trike shop, rental, workshop and community space. I have so many dreams to support the lives of anyone with a disability or injury.
Adaptive cycling is such an important opportunity for many people. How do you see it opening doors for those with disabilities?
When we look at adaptive cycling, it improves our mental wellbeing, physical wellbeing, our independence and freedom. Giving all of that to someone with a disability is life changing. This world needs more accessible actives and sport.
What challenges do you think disabled riders face when it comes to traditional cycling, and how do adaptive bikes address those?
The main challenge is balance with a trike having an extra wheel at the back/front. The other challenges are hard to explain as it differs from each individual in their needs.
What advice would you give to someone with a disability who’s interested in cycling but might feel nervous about getting started?
Just come try! Trikes are an awesome way to have fun, socialise, get fit, breathe in the fresh air and just be themselves. We are here to help and support you!
Can you tell us about one of your proudest moments since starting Ride Your Trike NZ?
Overall, the change...The change in how accessible cycling and advocating can improve people. Our education program Try a Trike has been taught in over 17 different schools across Waikato. Every day I wake up knowing I might change someone's life in cycling, with our partners Kylee & co and Milner Mobility, everything is possible. We have lots of adventures planned, like selling accessories, providing trikes for all ages, and getting our Trike program into all schools across the Waikato region.
What’s your message to the wider community about the importance of inclusion in sports and outdoor activities?
Cycling is so important because everyone loves bringing freedom and independence into their life. If you can’t ride two wheels, just try other options and something will work.
You can find out more about Ride Your Trike NZ here.
« Back to articles
