Adaptive Cycling: What We Learned From Three Pilot Rides
Adaptive Cycling: What We Learned From Three Pilot Rides
In September and October 2026, CommuniKeys completed three adaptive cycling pilot outings in Fort Collins. Participants and their caregivers explored different bicycles, practiced skills, and helped us understand what it will take to make cycling a regular part of community life.
Why we started
Our goal is not simply to organize bike rides. We want autistic adults and their caregivers or communication partners to build the shared knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to enjoy riding together beyond CommuniKeys outings.
What the pilots taught us
We worked with the City of Fort Collins Adaptive Recreation Opportunities (ARO) program and borrowed a recumbent bicycle through Spin. These partnerships made the pilots possible. They also highlighted a major challenge: the selection of suitable adaptive bicycles available locally is limited. Fit, steering configuration, balance, motor planning, and individual comfort matter. A bicycle that works well for one participant may be a poor match for another.
At the Walk and Wheel Skills Hub, participants practiced identifying signs, following roadway directions, and using hand signals. These were opportunities to learn together, observe what equipment worked, and identify where more practice and professional guidance are needed.
What comes next
For 2027 we are developing a Community Mobility Program with repeated small-group rides and opportunities for participants to try equipment before choosing a suitable configuration. We also hope to invite the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) to Fort Collins for a dedicated equipment exploration and skills day, with professional input from occupational and physical therapy partners.
Building a four-bike fleet
CommuniKeys is seeking funding and local cycling partners to help us acquire an initial fleet of four appropriate adaptive bicycles. We are looking at new and secondhand options and want informed advice about equipment selection, sourcing, and upkeep. Equipment purchases will be guided by what we have learned from participants and by qualified professional input.
How to help
Businesses and community members can help by sponsoring equipment, connecting us with adaptive cycling expertise, or helping locate suitable secondhand bicycles. Contact executive.director@communikeys.org to discuss a partnership.
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