Finally able to cycle again, despite disability

Hand-powered bicycles are typically purchased by athletic individuals or those aspiring to be. Around half of these are commuters who use the Varibike for their journey to work, combining cycling with fitness and back training. Many customers also have limitations or disabilities. These individuals can primarily use the hand-powered pedals, thus protecting one or both injured legs. By propelling the bicycle with both arms and one leg simultaneously, the heart and lungs are engaged, effectively improving fitness. In contrast, when using an e-bike and pedaling with only one leg, the training effect is virtually nonexistent, as the cardiovascular system is not sufficiently stimulated. Therefore, a hand-powered bicycle is an excellent way to stay fit despite an injury or disability.

The rehabilitation bike is ideal for people with osteoarthritis or knee pain. The cyclist can use only one leg while cycling, protecting the leg with osteoarthritis and assisting with hand pedaling. The recumbent rehabilitation tricycle is best if the cyclist has balance problems. With a rehab tricycle, they can protect one or both legs, depending on whether one or both legs are affected by knee pain. In this case, they primarily use their arms for propulsion. The recumbent rehabilitation tricycle can also be ridden very slowly if necessary, for example, on steep inclines, as a tricycle won't tip over. It's also possible to have the leg with osteoarthritis pedal lightly and without putting any weight on it. The hand pedal then takes over the main propulsion. Gentle, low-impact movement can help supply the knee with nutrients through exercise, even in cases of knee osteoarthritis.

Incomplete spinal cord injury and cycling with a recumbent tricycle is a fantastic combination. First and foremost, the tricycle provides the necessary stability. But above all, the arm drive provides the propulsion. The lower legs rest in special pedals with calf supports and can move freely without putting any strain on them. The simultaneous movement of arms and legs on the recumbent trike creates neural connections in the brain, thus stimulating healing in cases of incomplete spinal cord injury.