How to get started with motorcycle adaptations for disabled riders

If you have a disability or are looking to get back on a motorcycle after an accident that has left you disabled, there are a number of adaptations that can be made to your bike in the 21st century. 

Here the team at Bikesure will run through how you are able to ride a bike, and the steps you will need to take in line with your disability. 

Can I ride a motorcycle with a disability?

If you want to ride a motorcycle or scooter, the first step will be to let the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) know of the condition or disability that you have, as they will be able to provide information on whether you are able to ride a bike legally. 

Speaking to one of their helpful advisors will help to determine if you are medically cleared to either get back on the road, or if you are able to ride for the first time. If you are unable to get through to the DVLA due to wait times, you can also enquire through your local Mobility Centre. 

The DVLA may ask for you to undertake an assessment if they are unable to provide a definitive answer over the phone. 

If they clear you to ride, and you are yet to obtain a provisional licence, you will need to do so. 

If you have the physical ability to ride a standard bike but are concerned about getting back on a bike after illness or accident, or you have learning difficulties and want to see if you could learn to ride a motorbike or scooter, then you may consider an assessment at a mobility centre.

Some of these centres work with local motorbike schools that will be able to access your individual needs. They will test you off public roads as to whether you are able to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) test. If you already have a full licence and are then cleared, you will be able to ride on public roads once your bike is taxed and insured.

Will I need an adapted motorcycle?

If your disability means you are not able to use and operate a standard bike or scooter, you may still be able to ride an adapted motorcycle or trike.

There are a number of motorbike adaptations available: to reposition the controls, or move the controls to be operated by a different limb, clutchless gear shift, thumb throttle, modified foot plates, drop down stabilisers when stationary, a third wheel or sidecar, or an adapted trike.  

The National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD) will be able to help you with this. They are the world’s leaders for riders with disabilities, and will be able to inform you on which adaptation you will need.

NABD have helped thousands of disabled riders get back on the road since 1991, and the charity is regularly consulted on issues for disabled bikers by the DVLA, Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), Department for Transport (DfT), Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and the Highways Agency. 

They are also able to help give advice for those looking to ride 

Mopeds 

Scooters 

Trikes 

Quads 

They can also aid in VAT exemptions for riders with a disability, legal issues, rider training, protective clothing and safety equipment; and any other issues relating to motorcycling for people with disabilities.

The UK’s first disabled motorcycle racing team – True Heroes Racing

Dave Mackay #22 True Heroes Racing during Oulton Park Test of the Bennetts British Superbike (BSB) Championship at Oulton Park, Northamptonshire, England on the 12-13 April 2023. Photo by Ian Hopgood

True Heroes Racing, the UK’s first motorcycle racing team dedicated to supporting wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans, are celebrating their 14th year on the track. 

But these incredible individuals are not just setting an example on the track, they’re also helping to progress motorsport away from it too. 

The team races in some of the country’s biggest motorcycle competitions such as the British Superbike Superstock 1000 and the British Supersport Championship.

True Heroes also has a grassroots rider programme for UK Service personnel currently undergoing, or coming to the end of their rehabilitation process and offers them the chance to become a motorcycle racer for the first time. 

This proves their injuries or disability don’t have to limit what activities they can undertake, and provides a unique focus and new need for fitness for them as they near the end of their physical rehabilitation journey.

Fancy the thrill of the track?

Now you know about the wonderful work of True Heroes Racing, perhaps this has whet your appetite and you want to spend a day at a track yourself?  

With that in mind, it’s reassuring to know that as well as brilliant bespoke motorcycle insurance deals, Bikesure can organise special cover for track days at affordable and competitive rates. 

Call us on 0808 503 5562 or book a callback for a quote.