Using the wheelchair bike
With the rickshaw and the duo bike the patients have to be lifted on the bike with a hoist. With the wheelchair bike we can push the patients with the entire wheelchair on the bike. We always need an extra attendant from the department to help with getting the patient on the bike and to help getting them off the bike. This extra person keeps a closer eye on the patient; someone from the psychogeriatric department has to be instructed each time and has to make sure that they hold on to themselves. The driver can do the rest alone, such as fastening the seatbelt and hooks and cycling of course.
Advantages of the wheelchair bike
The pedal support is great. It is a wide range: 8 gears and then again 3 assistance levels. One more very good element: when the bike is stationary and the pedals are in an unfavourable position, you can press the button that the bike ‘rides’ itself. Pedalling backwards is also a very nice option, which is of course quite unique on a bicycle. I can confirm that you shouldn’t ride without a wheelchair on your bike. You run the risk of tipping over in de corner. Furthermore, the wheelchair bike is a pleasure to ride.
Ton van Baaren - Vlaardingen
Type: VeloPlus