The BikeNow! program works with children, youths, and adults who experience difficulty getting past training wheels and onto conventional two-wheelers. This program is a five-day bike camp where riders blossom and beam with pride over their new-found skill, volunteers cheer, and parents tear up seeing their child take flight, alone, for the first time.

Typically developing children learn to ride a bicycle with help from their family and friends. Unfortunately, most individuals with disabilities who try this route are unsuccessful. This camp is specifically geared toward those individuals who may experience physical, sensory, or cognitive difficulties making the traditional approach of learning how to ride challenging. Thus far, a variety of riders with disabilities have had success at BikeNow! and similar programs. Including those with Down syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, visual impairments, extreme fear of falling, fine motor challenges, and developmental delays. 

Through careful research into the elemental physics of bicycle riding, Dennis Blong and his team designed and built a unique type of adapted bike that enables the rider and bike to function together as a system. The design uses air cylinders to gently cushion the rider while keeping the rider safely upright. As the rider’s skill develops over the course of the week, we gradually reduce the air pressure until the rider is on his/her own. Our bike mechanic and floor director make the necessary adjustments and guide the riders as they progress.

Volunteers are crucial part of BikeNow!. Each rider will have one or two volunteers assigned to them for the entirety of the camp. These volunteers will cheer them on and lend a hand as the rider develops their new skill. Helping ensure the rider has a safe, helpful, and positive environment through out the camp.