Lawrence Family Becomes First in Indiana to Own Buddy Bike for Special Needs Child

By Diane Grishaber -

As an active family, we enjoy cycling and have always used a bike trailer for our two children. By the time our special needs daughter was too big to get into a trailer we weren’t sure if we were going to be able to enjoy our family bike rides.

Meredith, who is now 10 years old, has a rare chromosome disorder called Trisomy 3P Syndrome and struggles with peddling or anything that makes her feel unstable. We didn’t want to use a tag-a-long that attaches to the back of the bike, so we were in search of what would be adaptive to her needs.

A friend from Florida, who’s son is autistic, referred us to the Buddy Bike (www.buddybike.com). At first, we were apprehensive because we were unable to try the bike out. Since there are no dealers in Indiana, we would have to order online. After reading the website information and the many positive testimonials, we were sold.

“Special needs children are no longer left behind on family bike rides. Riding out in front, the child riders, many of whom might not otherwise be able to ride a bike, feel the wind in their face and are able to receive sensory input with an unobstructed view,” reports the Buddy Bike website.

We purchased the Sport model in April, becoming the first family in the state of Indiana to own a Buddy Bike. Since then, Meredith has been using it almost daily.

At first, Meredith was very apprehensive about getting on the bike, but after one ride, she absolutely loved it! The best feature is she sits in front, so the parent can always have an eye on her and talk directly into her ear. In addition, your arms are wrapped around the child’s sides to give added support.

The bike is a well-crafted, smooth-riding bike that provides 24 gears and front shocks for longer and more challenging rides. The Sport model was $1,400, but the family Buddy Bike with the special needs discount would allow you to purchase it for $995.

The bike is large enough for the child to use for many years. For instance, there are foot pegs for when they are small, and, as they grow, the seat changes height to enable the child to reach the pedals.

We highly recommend this bike and would be happy to let anyone with a special needs child to come over and take it for a spin. Please contact either Diane or Doug Grishaber at dgrishaber@yahoo.com. For more information on getting a reduced special needs rate, please visit www.buddybike.com.