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Van Raam produces uniquely special needs bicycles and specializes in tricycles, transport bikes, scooterbikes, wheelchair bikes, tandem bikes, double rider bikes, and low step trough bikes (also known as comfortbikes). Each model is also available as an electric bike (Pedelec).
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vanRaam is a Dutch producer of unique custom bikes. Want to know more about our company or special needs bikes?
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Customer experience Thuja - Hedwig Vigoureux
After a serious accident, cycling seemed to be over for Hedwig. However, she found her way back to freedom and independence. In this customer experience, she explains how the Thuja tricycle gave her back her confidence, freedom of movement and, above all, the joy of cycling.
Knee prosthesis
"My name is Hedwig Vigoureux and we have been living in Putte, the Netherlands, since 2018. Until my retirement in 2023, I worked as an occupational therapist in Belgium. I mainly used my electric bicycle to travel to and from work.
In February 2025, I had a total knee replacement. Before and after the operation, cycling, whether on an exercise bike or not, was very important to me. From April onwards, I was able to get around on my electric bike again. Yay!
A bike ride with major consequences
In mid-June, I felt fit enough to take part in a cycling weekend with friends. Day 1: cycled 35 km with ease. Day 2: a 45 km trip planned... But, after 35 km, I had an unfortunate fall on my right shoulder (I had already undergone major shoulder surgery in 2009) and right knee prosthesis... I was taken by ambulance to the emergency room.
An X-ray showed that my knee prosthesis was bruised but okay. However, I had a crack in my shoulder blade, upper arm and collarbone, and a few muscle tears. Last but not least, I had two torn ligaments near my collarbone. The latter is irreparable...
After several weeks with my arm in a sling and physiotherapy, the verdict came: no more cycling on a two-wheeler because of an unstable shoulder joint.
Looking for an alternative
That was a heavy blow for me. So I started looking for a tricycle. I googled it... I soon came across vanRaam. There I saw the Thuja tricycle, brand new! On 19 August, I was able to test ride it at the “Mobiliteitsplein” in The Hague. I received excellent assistance there. I immediately fell in love with the Thuja, what a lovely bicycle!
Negotiated: a green Thuja Smooth, heavy battery, left-side mirror, extra key lock and a front basket with cover. The Thuja tricycle was ordered immediately. While waiting for delivery, I was even given an Easy Rider Compact on loan. That was a fantastic offer.
“This bicycle represents my freedom”
My freedom on three wheels
The Thuja tricycle was delivered on 29 October. Fantastic! In the first five weeks, I already cycled 275 km on it. I use the bicycle to go shopping, cycle to choir practice and visit friends.
What I particularly like about the Thuja tricycle is its appearance. It is a beautiful and practical bicycle that can carry a lot of luggage. It has already attracted a lot of attention. This bicycle means freedom to me. I still drive the car, which I have to share with my husband, but I try to cycle as much as possible. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give the Thuja a resounding 10!
Hedwig Vigoureux - Putte
Bike: Thuja tricycle
Pros
- Beautiful and practical bicycle
- A lot of luggage space
