A local nonprofit organization has made it possible for those with disabilitis to ride a bike. Friends of Abilities First donated two accessible tandem bikes to the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. Abilities Frist works to create inclusive oportunities for those with developmental disabilities to live, learn, work and play in our community.
The bikes and helmets are available for free checkout from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday for use at Rutledge-Wilson Community Farm Park and on the nearby Wilson's Creek Greenway.
One bike is a wheelchair-bicycle tandem with electric pedal assist. It works well for those who use wheelchairs or have difficulty walking.
The second is a conventional tandem with a smaller rider in front, and the rear rider powering the pedals and controlling the steering through an oversize handlebar. Riders on the front seat can be children or smaller adults who are able to balance on a bike seat.
Cyrus Taylor, accessible recreation supervisor for the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, said the bikes help open up cycling to everyone.
